A Vietnam court sentenced a Mennonite pastor to 11 years in prison Tuesday for creating division between the Communist government and its people.

Nguyen Cong Chinh, 43, was convicted of writing and spreading materials that slandered authorities.

State-controlled media also said he was convicted of communicating with "reactionary groups" and inciting ethnic minorities to commit wrongdoing.

Human Rights Watch said the pastor's conviction adds to the government's continuous disregard for religious freedom.

In Vietnam, the Communist government sanctions state churches. The Mennonite church is outlawed in the country.