When President Obama declared his support for same-sex marriage earlier this year, many people saw it coming, given the increasing number of states in the U.S. that recognize same-sex marriage and polls showing changing attitudes on the subject.

It's fair to say not too many people expected the same from Vietnam.

Nevertheless, Vietnam's Communist government is now considering whether to allow same-sex couples to marry or legally register and receive rights. If it does, the country would be the first in Asia to do so, the Associated Press reported.

"This problem must be considered thoroughly in many aspects: cultural, legal, custom and ethical practices," said Ha Hung Cuong, of Vietnam's Ministry of Justice. He added that he believes it is "unacceptable to create social prejudice against the homosexual community," Gay Star News reported.

The minister said the legal rights of same-sex couples should be protected. "The state should also have legal mechanisms to protect the legitimate rights such as legal personality, property ownership or children (if any) of same-sex couples living together," he said, according to Gay Star News. The Justice Ministry said a legal framework is needed to help the courts handle disputes.