Before delivering her final statement, Truong My Lan revealed that a group of international partners has prepared resources and is ready to initiate asset recovery. She asked the judicial panel to acknowledge these efforts and consider a suitable sentence.

After nearly a month of hearings, the appellate trial for phase two of the Van Thinh Phat case entered its deliberation phase on April 14.

At the court session, Lan shared that during the break in proceedings, through her lawyers and family, she was deeply moved to learn that the Government had established a dedicated task force for asset recovery related to her case.

"This information means a great deal to me, especially after submitting numerous petitions to various agencies requesting support and a special mechanism for comprehensive asset recovery," she said.

Lan reiterated that the consequences of the case were unintended and described the events as an accident. Over more than 10 years of participating in the restructuring of SCB Bank and throughout her detention, she has continuously sought solutions and contacted partners to resolve issues surrounding the projects and related assets.

She added that the group of foreign partners had already prepared the necessary resources and submitted proposals, which would soon be presented to the asset enforcement task force to enable prompt action. Lan appealed to the court to acknowledge these efforts and holistically evaluate her case when determining the penalty.

In response, the presiding judge stated that the panel appreciated Lan's cooperation and efforts to remedy the damage to the victims. He noted that once the verdict becomes effective and enforcement begins, Lan could work with relevant authorities to explore appropriate support measures, including possible special mechanisms for asset handling.

When given the opportunity to make a final statement, Truong My Lan expressed gratitude to the Police Department for Economic, Corruption, and Smuggling Crimes, the Supreme People’s Procuracy, and detention facility staff for their support throughout the legal process.

She also thanked the judicial panel and the presiding judge for their professionalism, empathy, and fairness during the trial.

"This has been the most emotional trial of my life. I don’t yet know what the sentence will be, but this experience will stay with me forever," she said.

Once more, Lan urged the court to objectively re-examine the case, including the figures and criminal behaviors involved. Based on her efforts to rectify the consequences, she asked for leniency not only for herself but also for her co-defendants - particularly her husband, Chu Lap Co, whose reputation with international partners had been affected due to his money laundering charges.

In her final words, defendant Truong Hue Van offered heartfelt thanks to her legal team and the media for closely following the proceedings. She emphasized the extraordinary nature and severe consequences of the case, and expressed hope for a flexible, special mechanism to thoroughly resolve all damages and protect the rights of stakeholders.

Reflecting on her two sons, Van broke down in tears, expressing deep sorrow over the trauma they had endured. She pleaded for a reduced sentence so she could return home and care for them.

Thanh Phuong