PM: Vietnam welcomes investors from Japan’s Saitama prefecture

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) welcomes Governor of Saitama prefecture Kiyoshi Ueda

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc reaffirmed the Vietnamese Government’s commitment to creating favourable conditions for foreign investors, including those from Japan’s Saitama prefecture, while receiving its Governor Kiyoshi Ueda on October 26.

PM Phuc said he is delighted to know that Ueda is accompanied by representatives from the prefecture’s business association and different banks during his Vietnam visit this time. This demonstrates Saitama enterprises’ wish to seek business and investment cooperation opportunities in Vietnam, he said.

He told the guests that Vietnam’s business and investment environment is favourable, hoping that Saitama enterprises will invest in all fields in the country.

Ueda briefed the Vietnamese leader on the outcomes of his meeting with leaders of the Ministry of Planning and Investment where they discussed measures to boost bilateral ties.

Saitama prefecture opened a business support office in Hanoi to help its enterprises which are investing or will invest in Vietnam, he stated.

Saitama enterprises are facing difficulties related to human resources, Ueda noted, suggesting both sides collaborate in this field.

Ueda also said that his prefecture holds much potential to boost trade and investment cooperation with Vietnam, as it currently ranks fifth out of 47 Japanese cities and prefectures in terms of economy, with gross domestic product (GDP) reaching around 190 billion USD a year.

Agreeing with the governor’s proposals, PM Phuc asked the prefecture to support its enterprises in investing in Vietnam in the spheres of its strength such as automobile industry, manufacturing, and pharmaceuticals.

He suggested both sides intensify cooperation in human resources training and education, and urged Saitama to receive more Vietnamese guest workers to help them improve their skills, especially in manufacturing and health sectors.

The two sides also need to boost cultural and people-to-people exchanges, particularly in 2018 when Vietnam and Japan are celebrating the 45th founding anniversary of diplomatic ties, thus helping tighten the bilateral relations, PM Phuc added.

Vietnamese Deputy PM Trinh Dinh Dung visits France

Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung (L) and Minister of Environment François de Rugy 

Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung is paying a working visit to France from October 26-28 to seek measures to continue cementing ties between Vietnam and France.

During his trip, Dung had working sessions with Minister of Environment François de Rugy, and CEO of the French Development Agency (AFD) Rémy Rioux, paid a courtesy visit to Vice President of the Senate Philippe Dallier, and received representatives from several French groups and companies.

The Deputy PM also worked with officials of the French Prime Minister Office to prepare for PM Édouard Philippe’s upcoming visit to Vietnam.

During the meetings, both sides stressed that the Vietnam-France Strategic Partnership has developed strongly over the past years. Currently, France is the only European nation Vietnam has cooperative mechanisms in all fields, ranging from politics, security, defence to economy, science, culture and education.

Together with the official visit to France by General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong in March 2018, the upcoming visit by PM Philippe manifests the trust and closeness between senior leaders of the two countries. During the French PM’s visit, the two sides expect to sign different agreements on digitalization, health and communications.

The two sides affirmed their wishes to improve the efficiency of existing mechanisms to intensify bilateral relations at all levels. They agreed that economic cooperation is a priority pillar in the bilateral strategic partnership, but needs to be fostered to match fine political ties.

They vowed to continue supporting the implementation of economic cooperation projects, and creating favourable conditions for the two countries’ enterprises to step up business connectivity in the fields of health, agriculture and aerospace.

Dung urged the French Government and Senate to early complete necessary procedures to officially sign a free trade agreement (FTA) and an investment protection agreement (IPA) between the European Union and Vietnam in late 2018 and ratify them in early 2019, so as to realise huge benefits of the EU-Vietnam FTA.

The Deputy PM said that he welcomed and hoped France will has a stronger voice in supporting the settlement of disputes in the East Sea by peaceful measures, upholding the supremacy of law in seas and oceans as well as ensuring security, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation in the East Sea.

At his meetings with Environment Minister François de Rugy, and CEO of the AFD Rémy Rioux, Deputy PM Dung appreciated France’s assistance to Vietnam through AFD aid worth over 2 billion EUR (2.28 billion USD) for 80 projects that has helped Vietnam implement green growth goals and Paris Agreement commitments.

The French officials promised to expand cooperation with Vietnam in different fields such as environmental protection, disaster prevention and control, and natural resources development and protection, and support Vietnam in making policies to adapt to climate change and drawing scenarios to seek measures to mitigate climate change impacts.

Receiving leaders of Total and Air Liquide Groups and Aaquius company, Dung encouraged them to continue expanding investment in Vietnam in the fields of renewable energy and green development to help the country carry out international commitments to climate change adaptation.

, Argentina step up economic-trade cooperation

Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Do Thang Hai (R) and Horacio Reyser, Secretary for International Economic Relations at the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship 

The Vietnam-Argentina Inter-governmental Committee for Economic and Commercial Cooperation held its 6th meeting in Buenos Aires, Argentina, on October 25 and 26.

The meeting was co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Do Thang Hai and Horacio Reyser, Secretary for International Economic Relations at the Argentine Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Worship. 

Speaking at the meeting, Reyser expressed his delight at positive progress in bilateral relations and highlighted the importance of the Argentina-Vietnam comprehensive partnership. The regular exchange of working delegations to boost trade collaboration is evidence of the enhancement of the bilateral relationship, he said.

Reyser said after the committee’s fifth meeting held in Hanoi in 2016 and its mid-term meeting in Buenos Aires in October 2017, the closer bilateral cooperation has been fostered via the joint implementation of some technical projects.

The official said Argentina sent a multi-sector business delegation to accompany Minister of Foreign Affairs and Worship Jorge Faurie during his visit to Vietnam in a bid to improve existing dialogue channels between the two countries and discover new collaboration opportunities in the fields of pharmaceuticals, bio-technology, medical machines, food (particularly poultry and beef), seafood, and fruits.

Based on the unanimous agreement, the Southern Common Market (Mercosur) is willing to begin a pre-feasibility dialogue with Vietnam towards negotiations on a free trade agreement between Mercosur and Vietnam, he said.

As a member of Mercosur, Argentina will update information for Vietnam on the bloc’s stance on the matter, he added.

For his part, Hai said the friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and Argentina have been continuously strengthened and developed since the two nations established diplomatic ties 45 years ago. Several agreements were signed in the spheres of economy, trade, investment, agriculture, and science-technology, he said.

Hai said in the past time, the two countries have worked closely in conducting technical cooperation projects within the framework of the Argentine Fund for South-South and Triangular Cooperation (FOAR), with positive and beneficial outcomes recorded. Vietnam and Argentina have also step up partnership in culture, tourism, sports, and education, particularly Spanish language teaching.

To boost bilateral trade and investment and comprehensive cooperation across fields, he suggested the two countries enhance the sharing of information and increase the exchange of business delegations, trade-investment promotions, and cultural exchanges.

The Deputy Minister recommended the two sides prioritise allocating resources for trade transactions, particularly trade balance, and joint hands to increase the diversity of traded goods.

At the meeting, the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency (Vietrade) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Argentine Investment and Trade Promotion Agency (AAICI) signed a memorandum of understanding on facilitating bilateral trade and investment promotion activities.

Argentina is now the second biggest trade partner of Vietnam in Latin America, while Vietnam is the fifth trade partner of Argentina in the global market. In 2017, bilateral trade hit 3.03 billion USD. Argentina is investing in four projects worth 284,000 USD in Vietnam, ranking 106 out of 129 foreign investors in the country.

Communist Party of Vietnam delegation visits Switzerland

The delegation of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) led by Nguyen Xuan Thang, Secretary of the CPV Central Committee has a working session with Mauro Moruzzi, Head of International Cooperation at the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation

A delegation of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) led by Nguyen Xuan Thang, Secretary of the CPV Central Committee (CPVCC), paid a working visit to Switzerland from October 25-26.

While in Switzerland, Thang, who is Chairman of the CPVCC’s Theoretical Council and Director of the Ho Chi Minh National Academy of Politics, had a working session with Mauro Moruzzi, Head of International Cooperation at the State Secretariat for Education, Research and Innovation.

Thang and Moruzzi exchanged views on modern challenges, especially those in the digital age to education and human resource training.

Thang also met with Raphael Naegeli, head of the Asia and Pacific Division under the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs, to discuss bilateral ties and Switzerland-ASEAN relations. 

The Swiss official spoke highly of Vietnam’s economic development over the years and noted that the two nations have bolstered cooperation in technical assistance. 

Switzerland is looking to enhance economic cooperation with Vietnam in the coming time, Naegeli stated, adding that Swiss firms want to increase investment in the Southeast Asian country.

He underlined that the Swiss and Vietnamese governments play a significant role in creating a legal corridor which facilitates long term operations of businesses.

At the working session with Andreas Ladner, Director of the Swiss Graduate School of Public Administration, University of Lausanne, the two sides discussed prospects for cooperation in training and research on leadership and management. 

 

Secretary of the CPVCC  Nguyen Xuan Thang (R) meets with Andre Simonazzi, Vice Chancellor and spokesman for the Swiss Federal Council (Photo: VNA)

Thang also met with Andre Simonazzi, Vice Chancellor and spokesman for the Swiss Federal Council, and Christian Levrat, President of the Social Democratic Party of Switzerland.

The official also met with staff of the Embassy of Vietnam in Switzerland and overseas Vietnamese in the country.

Cuba holds seminar on Vietnam’s development experience

A corner of Ho Chi Minh City, the southern economic hub of Vietnam 

A number of speakers delved into Vietnam’s development path at the fourth conference of strategic studies of the Cuban Center for International Policy Research (CIPI) held from October 24-26.

Presenting his study on Vietnam amid the modern international order, Dr Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez from the CIPI pointed to the country’s high growth in consecutive years as well as its strategy to attract foreign investment by developing industrial centres and its policy on building an international environment for development.

He also mentioned advantages and disadvantages of Vietnam amid the US-China trade war and challenges the country is facing in the global current context.

Meanwhile, Liurka Rodriguez Barrios from the Cuban Ministry of Foreign Affairs reviewed milestones in Vietnam-Cuba special relations.

Based on a long-standing history, orientation similarities, and mutual trust, the bilateral ties are advancing into a new period, bringing more specific contributions to Vietnam’s reform process and Cuba’s socio-economic update, she said.

Barrios said Vietnam is the second biggest trade partner of Cuba in Asia and their partnership sees great potential for future cooperation.

In a sideline interview with the Vietnam News Agency, Dr Ruvislei Gonzalez Saez said he considers the Vietnamese economy an “Asian tiger” thanks to its high growth rate that have brought about changes in line with the country’s development orientations, such as improving national competitiveness and alleviating poverty. 

However, he said the high independence on exports, particularly to some big markets, makes Vietnam more vulnerable to fluctuations in the global market. 

The expert suggested the country improve education quality to increase added values of its products by boosting innovation and research, and better protecting its small- and medium-sized enterprises.

Cambodian Senate President receives Vietnamese Party official

Politburo member Truong Thi Mai (L) was received by President of the Cambodian Senate and Vice President of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party Say Chhum 

Truong Thi Mai, Politburo member and Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, on October 27 paid a courtesy visit to President of the Cambodian Senate and Vice President of the ruling Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) Say Chhum who said Mai’s working visit will contribute to tightening Vietnam-Cambodia relations.

Mai, who is also Chairwoman of the CPV Central Committee’s Commission for Mass Mobilisation, informed Say Chhum of the outcomes of the talks between the two parties’ high-level delegations. She expressed her delight at the fine development of the solidarity, friendship and cooperation between the two parties and two countries, while appreciating collaboration results between the Vietnamese National Assembly and the Cambodian Senate.

She hoped that the Cambodian Senate will intensify cooperation and share information and experience with the Vietnamese legislature to well implement their role in building laws, supervising and making decisions on the country’s important issues, and to inspect and urge their ministries, sectors, localities and enterprises to carry out the Vietnam-Cambodia Joint Statement and signed agreements.

The official took the occasion to thank Cambodia for its assistance to Vietnamese Cambodians and Vietnamese investors in the country. She expressed her wish that Say Chhum continues directing the Senate to consider and support the adjustment and supplementation of laws and policies to step up trade and investment collaboration and create favourable conditions for Vietnamese Cambodians in the country.

Agreeing with Mai’s proposals, Say Chhum suggested both sides increase information sharing and maintain close coordination at international forums, especially within the framework of ASEAN and sub-regional cooperative mechanisms, in order to contribute to peace, stability and development in the region and the world.

He spoke highly of cooperation results between the two parties and two countries over the past time, underlining that the Cambodian people never forget the sacrifice of Vietnamese volunteer soldiers to help Cambodia regain independence and defeat the Pol Pot genocidal regime.

On the same day, Mai visited Siem Reap province. During her meeting with the province’s leaders, Mai voiced her hope that Siem Reap will maintain its close cooperation with Vietnamese cities and provinces in such fields as tourism and human resources training, and in boosting economic development and poverty reduction.

Party’s Inspection Commission reveals outcomes of 30th session

At the 30th session of the Inspection Commission of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee 

The Inspection Commission of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC) on October 25 announced the outcomes of its 30th session held in Hanoi on October 17-19, giving conclusions on wrongdoings at a number of Party organisations.

In its announcement, the Inspection Commission said the Party Committee of the Ministry of Public Security’s General Department of Police and its Standing Board had seriously violated working rules and the principles of centralized democracy, slackened the leadership and direction, and neglected supervision, so that some leaders and officials of the General Department and the Department of High-Tech Crime Prevention (C50) abetted and covered up the organisation of online gambling for a long time, causing serious consequences.

They also showed many violations in personnel work, investigation and handling of some cases, and implementation of a number of projects on investment and equipment procurement, it said.

The commission concluded that  Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Cong Son, former member of the Standing Board of the Party Committee and Deputy General Director of the General Department; Lieut. Gen. Nguyen Van Ba, former member of the Standing Board of Party Committee and  Deputy General Director of the General Department; Maj. Gen. Le Dinh Nhuong, deputy head of the National Assembly (NA)'s Committee on National Defence-Security, former member and Secretary of the General Department of Police’s Party Committee and Chief of the Office of the Investigation Police Agency (C44); Maj. Gen. Nguyen Huy Ma, former Secretary of the General Police Department’s Party Committee and General Director of the Department of Professional Police Profile (C53); and Maj. Gen. Nguyen Duc Thinh, former member and Secretary of the General Police Department’s Party Committee and General Director of the Investigation Police Bureau for Economic Management Order Offences (C46) must bear the responsibility for the violations and mistakes of their agencies as leaders and the individual responsibility in realising their entrusted duties and tasks. 

The violations and wrongdoings of the Standing Board of the General Department of Police’s Party Committee and the above-mentioned individuals have affected the prestige of the Party organisation and the police sector, causing indignation in society, the commission said, calling for disciplinary measures in accordance with the Party’s regulations. 

Meanwhile, Colonel Nguyen Thanh Trang, deputy chief of the Office of C44 and Captain Nguyen Chi Trung, deputy director of the Office of C44, violated the principles and regulations on criminal procedures, so that disciplinary measures must be considered.  

The Inspection Commission also announced that Chu Hao, Director and Editor-in-chief of the Tri Thuc Publishing House, must bear the main responsibility for the house’s publication of several books with contents contrary to the Party and State’s viewpoints, policies and guidelines and violating the Publication Law which were revoked and demolished. 

Hao, who had ever held the position of Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, violated regulations on what a Party member is not allow to do and had articles and statements with contents running counter to the Party’s Political Platform, Statutes, resolutions, directions and regulations. He showed degradations in political thought, morality and lifestyle, “self-evolution” and “self-transformation”.

His violations and wrongdoings are very serious, affecting the prestige of the Party organisation, causing negative impacts on social thought, the commission said, calling for disciplinary measures against him in accordance with the Party’s regulations.

 

The Inspection Commission also decided to give a reprimand to Major General Phan Tan Tai, who had signed a contract to transfer two defence land areas to enterprises without fully implementation of legal regulations as member of the Standing Board of the Party Committee and Deputy Commander of the Military Region 7.

It also decided to give warnings to Ho Thi Le Ha, member of the Party Committee of Quang Tri province, Secretary of the Party Committee and Chairwoman of the People’s Council of Huong Hoa district; Vo Thanh, Permanent Vice Secretary of the district Party Committee; and Dang Trong Van, Vice Secretary of the district Party Committee and Chairman of the district People’s Committee. 

The commission asked the Standing Board of the Quang Tri provincial Party Committee to take disciplinary measures against the Standing Board of the Huong Hoa district Party Committee for 2015-2020 tenure for violations and mistakes concluded at its 29th session.

Also in this session, the Inspection Commission considered Party financial examination on the Standing Board of the Binh Phuoc provincial Party Committee and supervision on the Standing Board of the Ha Tinh provincial Party Committee; as well as handled complaints regarding Party disciplinary measures and gave opinions on some other important contents.-

PM lauds Coca-Cola’s operations in Vietnam

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives Calin Dragan, Director of Coca-Cola’s Bottling Investments Group, in Hanoi on October 26 

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has lauded operation of the US firm, Coca-Cola, in Vietnam, with the generation of thousands of jobs and the production of diverse products using domestic materials.

Along with fulfilling tax responsibilities, the firm has also actively engaged in social activities, the PM said while receiving Calin Dragan, Director of Coca-Cola’s Bottling Investments Group in Southeast Asia and the Middle East in Hanoi on October 26.

The PM pledged that the Vietnamese Government always creates favourable conditions and mechanism for investors.

Recalling his meeting with the Vietnamese leaders during his visit to the US in May 2017, Dragan said that he always remembers the PM’s suggestions, including the increase of using domestic materials.

Thanks to Vietnam’s policy of creating favourable conditions, the firm has enjoyed good growth and become one of the 100 biggest tax payers in the country, he said.

Dragan revealed that Coca-Cola is seeking a suitable area in Hanoi to open its fourth factory in Vietnam, adding that the firm also plans to launch another factory in Ho Chi Minh City.

Dragan thanked the Government of Vietnam and PM Phuc for creating good environment for enterprises. He reaffirmed Coca-Cola’s commitments to fulfil both tax and social responsibilities.

The PM showed his delight at Coca-Cola plan to expand operation to the north of Vietnam, especially a plan to build a 300-million-USD factory in Hanoi.

The project is expected to produce both traditional and nutritious products with higher added value, using local materials, while generating jobs for thousands of direct and indirect labourers and developing a network of distribution. 

Deputy PMs call for stronger Vietnam-Malaysia strategic partnership

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh (R) and his Malaysian counterpart Wan Azizah Wan Ismail in Hanoi on October 26

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh held talks with his Malaysian counterpart Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, who is on an official visit to Vietnam, in Hanoi on October 26.

The two sides said amid changes in the Asia-Pacific region, including ASEAN, that bring about both opportunities and challenges, the two countries should enhance their strategic partnership in a more substantive manner for the sake of the two peoples and for peace, cooperation and prosperous development in the region and the world.

The Deputy PMs applauded the breakthroughs in the strategic partnership over the last five years since its establishment, noting close-knit political ties, substantive economic cooperation, and expanding relations in other fields like defence-security, education-training, labour, culture, and people-to-people exchange.

They agreed to increase mutual visits at all levels between the countries’ Parties, Governments, States, Parliaments and people. Both sides also agreed to continue implementing bilateral cooperation mechanisms effectively and discuss to have a unanimous stance on regional and international issues of shared concern.

Vietnam and Malaysia will keep tightening economic links and promoting bilateral trade to 15 billion USD or higher by 2020, the officials said, stressing the need to boost dialogue between their Governments and businesses.

They affirmed the determination to remove obstacles and create optimum conditions for Vietnamese and Malaysian firms to seek investment and business chances, especially in new sectors that apply technology and have high added value like digital economy, clean energy, hi-tech agriculture, infrastructure development and logistics.

They also talks ways to step up cooperation in other fields such as culture, tourism and sea-related areas.

Deputy PM Ismail said the Malaysian Government will further provide favourable conditions for Vietnamese who are living, studying and working in the country. She also agreed to strengthen bilateral ties in labour and vocational training.

At the talks, the Deputy PMs exchanged views on regional and global matters of common concern. They said amid the current regional situation, the two countries should maintain consultation on issues relevant to regional security and strategies and coordinate to help build a united ASEAN, successfully realise the ASEAN Community Vision 2025, enhance the bloc’s centrality in the regional architecture, and bring into play its role in the settlement of strategic issues in the region.

They affirmed the resolve to work closely together to reinforce regional economic connectivity, particularly within the framework of ASEAN, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).

Malaysia pledged to support Vietnam’s holding of the ASEAN Chair in 2020. Meanwhile, the Vietnamese side also committed support and close coordination when Malaysia hosts APEC events the same year.

In terms of the East Sea issue, the two sides shared the consistent viewpoint that is committing to peacefully resolving disputes in line with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, not using or threatening to use force, and fully respecting diplomatic and legal processes.

They emphasised the importance of no militarisation, restraining from activities that could cause tensions or escalate tensions, and further complying with principles of international law and widely recognised standards.

The Deputy PMs also reiterated their support for the full and effective implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea, and for negotiations on an effective and substantive Code of Conduct in the waters.-

HCM City official welcomes Cuban Women’s Federation representatives

Standing Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Tat Thanh Cang (R) receives Teresa Maria Amarelle Boue, Politburo member of the Communist Party of Cuba and Secretary General of the Cuban Women’s Federation, on October 26 

Standing Deputy Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Tat Thanh Cang on October 26 received a delegation of the Cuban Women’s Federation (FMC), now on a working visit to the Vietnamese city.

Head delegate Teresa Maria Amarelle Boue, Politburo member of the Communist Party of Cuba and Secretary General of the FMC, affirmed that her country always wants to enhance the traditional solidarity and friendship with Vietnam so as to benefit the people of each country.

Noting the outcomes of the delegation’s working visit in HCM City, she said they were very impressed with the local child care model for low-income earners as well as vocational training and career guidance activities of the HCM City Women’s Cultural House. They consider these as precious experiences for Cuba.

Welcoming the Cuban guests, Cang expressed his hope that the FMC and the HCM City Women’s Union would effectively share experience in women-related work and help strengthen cooperation between Vietnamese and Cuban women.

He also appreciated the Cuban people’s wholehearted support for Vietnam during the fight for national independence and reunification in the past. He added Cuba leader Fidel Castro’s braving of dangers to visit the newly liberated area in Quang Tri 45 years ago reflected the Cuban people’s special solidarity with Vietnam.

The Vietnamese people will forever keep in mind this solidarity and always want to develop the time-tested relations with their Cuban peers, the official noted.

Earlier the same day, the FMC delegation visited the historical relic site of Cu Chi Tunnels, some private child care centres and the HCM City Women’s Cultural House.

Lawmakers review socio-economic performance

A deputy from Vinh Long at the revision 

 

Lawmakers reviewed the socio-economic performance so far this year and the three-year implementation of the 2016-2020 socio-economic development plan during the ongoing sixth session in Hanoi on October 26, which was broadcast live nationwide. 

With NA Vice Chairman Phung Quoc Hien in the chair, they also looked into the socio-economic plan for 2019, the three-year implementation of the 2016-2020 economic restructuring plan, the support policies for socio-economic development in ethnic minority and mountainous areas, and the national target programmes for 2016-2020. 

Forty-six legislators offered opinions on stabilising micro-economy and growth in tandem with economic restructuring, improvement of productivity and economic competitiveness, human resources quality, reform of State administrative apparatus, personnel streamlining, administrative reform, mid-term public investment, foreign investment attraction policies, and adoption of modern technologies from the Fourth Industrial Revolution. 

They also shared views about agricultural restructuring, disaster prevention and control, climate change response, sustainable development in the Mekong Delta, shortcomings in health care, vocational training, management on transportation works and logistics services, policies for ex-revolutionaries, the poor and the elderly. 

Difficulties, achievements and ways to promote the national target programmes on sustainable poverty reduction and new rural development for 2016-2020 were also tabled for discussion. 

Others included shortcomings in legal enforcement in land, public investment, urban construction and management, natural resources, law-building and preparations for the implementation of the resolutions adopted by the sixth, seventh and eighth conferences of the 12th Party Central Committee. 

Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Nguyen Xuan Cuong and Minister of Education and Training Phung Xuan Nha addressed several issues of concern raised by deputies. 

On October 27, the legislature will continue debating the progress of the annual and mid-term socio-economic plans at the plenary session, which will also be televised nationwide.-

More congratulations to new President

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President Nguyen Phu Trong 

 

Leaders of the Republic of Korea (RoK), Italy, Algeria, Morocco, Belarus and Mozambique, as well as those of foreign political parties have sent their congratulations to General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong on his recent election as State President. 

In his congratulation, President of the RoK Moon Jae-in spoke highly of the new President’s contributions to the development of bilateral strategic cooperative partnership, and said he believed that Vietnam will further thrive under the leadership of Nguyen Phu Trong. 

For his part, Italian President Sergio Mattarella also expressed his belief that the Vietnam – Italy ties will develop in bilateral aspects, within the Vietnam – EU framework as well as at multilateral forums. 

Algerian President Adbelaziz Bouteflika, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, King of Morocco Mohamed VI, President of Mozambique Filipe Nyusi also congratulated the new Vietnamese leader. 

Other congratulations were from leaders of political parties of Japan, Panama, Guinea Bissau, Argentina, Mexico, Brazil, Portugal and Czech Republic; as well as ambassadors of Cuba, Japan, Argentina, Panama and Venezuela in Vietnam.

Party official: Vietnam supports democracy process in Venezuela

Politburo member Tran Quoc Vuong (R) and PSUV Vice President Jesus Faria 

 

Politburo member and permanent member of the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat Tran Quoc Vuong has affirmed the Vietnamese Party and State’s consistent policy of supporting democracy process in Venezuela. 

During a reception in Hanoi on October 26 for Vice President in charge of economic affairs of the United Socialist Party of Venezuela (PSUV) Jesus Faria, Vuong thanked progressive forces and people of Venezuela for providing support for Vietnam in the past national liberation and development at current. 

He expressed his belief that under the leadership of the PSUV President and State President Nicolas Maduro, the Venezuelan people will overcome difficulties and successfully follow the testament of the late President Hugo Chavez. 

Faria wished that Vietnam would share its experience in socio-economic development with Venezuela, affirming that the PSUV and State of Venezuela want to strengthen solidarity and traditional friendship with Vietnam, towards pushing forward the practical and effective development of bilateral comprehensive partnership, especially in economy, trade and investment. 

Earlier, Faria held talks with deputy head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission Ngo Van Tuan, held working sessions with former Secretary of the Party Central Committee and former Deputy Prime Minister Vu Khoan, and representatives of the National Assembly’s Committee on External Relations, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, the State Bank of Vietnam and the Vietnam National Oil and Gas Group. 

He also took the occasion to visit several socio-economic establishments in Hanoi and the northern province of Quang Ninh.

Party official vows to foster traditional friendship with Cambodia

Honorary President of the Cambodian People's Party Samdech Heng Samrin and Head of the Party Central Committee’s Mass Mobilisation Commission Truong Thi Mai (L) 

 

Vietnam will do its best to foster traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation with Cambodia, said Truong Thi Mai, Politburo member and Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee.

Mai, who is also head of the Party Central Committee’s Mass Mobilisation Commission, made the statement during a meeting with Samdech Heng Samrin, Honorary President of the Cambodian People’s Party (CPP) and President of the Cambodian National Assembly, in Phnom Penh on October 26. 

She congratulated Heng Samrin on his election as the top legislator for the sixth tenure, expressing her belief that under the leadership of the Cambodian legislature and government, the Cambodian people will score greater achievements in the implementation of the Political Platform of the CPP and the government’s Quadrangle Development Strategy. 

She wished that the two legislatures would direct ministries, agencies and localities to seriously and effectively carry out signed joint statements and agreements.

The guest also asked the Cambodian NA to ensure legitimate interests of Vietnamese nationals in Cambodia in line with its law and international practices. 

Speaking highly of cooperation between the two countries’ legislatures, governments, ministries, agencies and localities over the past years, Heng Samrin expressed his thanks to Vietnam for providing valuable, timely and effective support for Cambodia in national liberation and development. 

He affirmed that the fine neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation and everlasting ties between Vietnam and Cambodia are an invaluable asset that needs to be maintained, upheld and handed over to later generations. 

The host also vowed support for collaboration between the two mass mobilisation commissions. 

The same day, the high-level delegation of the CPV led by Truong Thi Mai held talks with its CPP counterpart headed by Deputy Prime Minister and head of the CPP’s Mass Mobilisation Commission Men Sam On. 

Both sides agreed on measures to clear obstacles in the implementation of bilateral cooperation agreements, especially in processing legal procedures for overseas Vietnamese and evacuation of Vietnamese households on Tonle Sap lake to higher grounds. 

They pledged to strengthen cooperation between the two mass mobilisation commissions via the exchange of visits to share experience in the new situation. 

Host and guest promised to step up links across economy, investment, trade, culture, education-training, and science-technology. 

On the occasion, the Vietnamese delegation laid wreaths at the monument dedicated to King Father Norodom Sihanouk and the Vietnam – Cambodia Friendship Monument in Phnom Penh.

The delegation will leave Cambodia on October 28, concluding a four-day visit.

Party official receives Japanese professor, ambassador

Politburo member and head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission Nguyen Van Binh (R) hosts Professor Kenichi Ohno in Hanoi on October 26 

Politburo member and head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission Nguyen Van Binh hosted Professor Kenichi Ohno from Japan’s National Graduate Institute for Policy Studies (GRIPS), and Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Kunio Umeda on October 26.

Meeting the two Japanese officials, Binh described Japan as one of Vietnam’s leading partners in economy-trade cooperation which benefits people of the two countries.

In response, Professor Kenichi Ohno stated his ideas to improve Vietnam’s labour productivity, as well as proposed that Japan work with Vietnam in this regard. 

Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador Kunio Umeda shared his views on the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and progress of the urban railway projects in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The Vietnamese official spoke highly of Japan’s experiences in productivity improvement, adding that they will be helpful and practical for Vietnam’s economic development.

Vietnam will continue to stabilise the macro economy, curb inflation and bolster sustainable economic growth, in line with ensuring social welfare and environmental protection, he stressed. 

With the targets set, the country always treasures and hopes to enhance its cooperation with Japan, especially in information exchange and Japanese firms’ investment in Vietnam, which will contribute to the countries’ cooperation in the time to come, said Binh.

NA Vice Chairwoman: Vietnam will remain a UN responsible member

Permanent NA Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong (R) and UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam Kamal Malhotra

Vietnam will continue to be a responsible member of the United Nations (UN) who actively joins its activities to ensure peace, stability, cooperation and development, said permanent Vice Chairwoman of the National Assembly Tong Thi Phong on October 26. 

She made the statement during a reception in Hanoi for UN Resident Coordinator in Vietnam and UN Development Programme’s Resident Representative to Vietnam Kamal Malhotra. 

Phong spoke highly of the UN’s support to Vietnam’s socio-economic development, especially in the fields of poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS prevention and control, child care and protection, disaster prevention, climate change response, administrative reform and improvement of Vietnam’s capacity in global integration. The support contributes to the promotion of the country’s sustainable development, she highlighted.

The host stressed that over the past more than four decades of membership of the UN, Vietnam has always been an active, proactive and responsible member, well performing roles assigned by the bloc. She lauded the UN for, via its representative offices in Vietnam, providing effective support for the Vietnamese legislature’s operation, including launching projects with some of its committees and working with the Inter-Parliamentary Union to build a set of tools for lawmakers to assess the achievement of the UN sustainable development goals. 

Malhotra, for his part, reaffirmed the UN’s commitment to working closely with the Vietnamese NA to promote its supervisory and law-making role and realise the 2030 UN Agenda for Sustainable Development.-

Vietnam-UK diplomatic ties marked in HCM City

The constant development of the Vietnam-UK relations was highlighted at a ceremony to mark the 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two countries in Ho Chi Minh City on October 26. 

Speaking at the event, Vice Chairman of the municipal People Committee Le Thanh Liem stressed that the bilateral ties has developed rapidly across fields, especially after the two nations upgraded their relations to a Strategic Partnership in 2010. 

In the context of the two countries’ fruitful relations in terms of politics, diplomacy, economy, and culture, tourism and education cooperation, the relationship between HCM City and the UK have also recorded important achievements, particularly in exchange of delegations, trade investment, education, tourism and culture exchange. 

HCM City is home to 146 projects totaling 555 million USD invested by UK firms. The European country ranks 11th among 100 countries and territories investing in the city. 

Trade value between HCM City and the UK in 2017 hit 795 million USD. The Vietnamese locality welcomed 125,000 British visitors - the largest number in three years. 

Liem stressed that increasing and diplomatic exchange activities, and economic-trade -investment, culture and education bonds between the two nations, as well as their closer and effective cooperation in global and regional issues, will contribute to further deepening the Vietnam-UK Strategic Partnership, thus promoting their mutual understanding and good friendship and cooperation, and meeting aspirations and interests of the people of both sides.

For his part, Ian Gibbons, Consul General of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland to HCM City, said over the past 45 years, Vietnam has left behind all the wreckage of the war to rebuild the country in spite of all hardships, noting that his country is proud to be with Vietnam on this path.

The re-opening of the Consulate General in HCM City in 1994 created an important premise for both sides to build trust and reinforce their extensive cooperation afterwards. 

The bilateral relations has made important breakthroughs and strong development after being upgraded to a Strategic Partnership in terms of politics, global and regional issues, trade and investment, sustainable socio-economic development, education and training, science and technology, defence and security, and people-to-people diplomacy.

Ian Gibbons affirmed that the Consulate General and the UK Business Association in Vietnam hope to continue receiving support from the municipal authorities, so that more and more UK firms would not only come to do business but also set up offices and production establishments in the city.

The British Council is committed to continuing its efforts to introduce the UK’s arts, culture and language to locals in HCM City in particular and Vietnamese people in general, he said.-

Vietnam, Cambodia promote military information cooperation

Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the VPA Sen. Lieut. Gen Pham Hong Huong (R) receives General Phorn Nara, head of the Information Department under the Cambodian Ministry of Defence (Source: qdnd.vn)

The General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) always facilitates cooperation on information and communication between the Defence Ministries of Vietnam and Cambodia, said Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the VPA Sen. Lieut. Gen Pham Hong Huong. 

Huong made the affirmation during a reception on October 25 for General Phorn Nara, head of the Information Department under the Cambodian Ministry of Defence, who is on a working visit to Vietnam. 

The Vietnamese officer said on the basis of the protocol on bilateral defence cooperation in 2015-2019 and the cooperation plan between the two countries’ defence ministries for 2018, the cooperation has been implemented effectively, with information links greatly important.

According to Huong, in recent years, the information sector of the two armies have  exchanged delegations, shared professional experience and worked together in personnel training.

In his reply, General Phorn Nara thanked the VPA for its support for the Royal Cambodian Army in recent years, especially in training human resources for the Cambodian Ministry of Defence’s Information Department. 

He expressed his admiration for the strong development of the VPA’s information industry. He also informed the host about the outcomes of his talks with Major General Khuc Dang Tuan, Commander of the Signal Corps. 

Earlier the same day, in the working session between Major General Tuan and General Phorn Nara, the two sides reviewed cooperation between the Signal Corps and the Information Department of Cambodia in recent times, as well as shared their experience in terms of information, training cooperation and issues of common concern. 

The two sides agreed the outcomes of the talks mark a new development step in the relations between the two countries’ military information sectors.-

Vietnam attaches importance to promoting gender equality: NA leader

NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan receives  heads of delegations attending the third ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Women.  

The National Assembly of Vietnam always pays special attention to issues related to gender equality and women’s development and is willing to cooperate with other ASEAN member nations in this field, said NA Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan. 

The Vietnamese top legislator made the affirmation during a meeting on October 25 with heads of delegations attending the third ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Women (AMMW-3) in Hanoi. 

She expressed her belief in the meeting’s success, saying that it would contribute to building ASEAN member nations’ policies  on promoting  and ensuring social welfare for women and girls, towards implementing the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and its sustainable development goals to 2030. 

While briefing the NA leader on the meeting’s agenda, Vietnamese Minister of Labour, War Invalid and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung said the theme of the third AMMW focuses on social welfare for women and girls. 

The ministers are scheduled to adopt a joint statement to affirm commitments and orientations in promoting gender equality, women’s empowerment  and ensuring social welfare, thus realizing the common goals of the ASEAN Community by 2025 and implementing the UN Agenda 2030. 

Ngan spoke highly the contents discussed at the meeting, noting that the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) members have made great strides in enhancing the role of women. 

She stressed that in the framework of the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), the Vietnamese NA has actively been boosting cooperation with parliaments of other AIPA member nations, adding that Vietnam issued laws to promote gender equality, prevent domestic violence and discrimination against women, and enhance gender mainstreaming in national programmes, and supervise the implementation of regulations on gender equality in laws and policies. 

Ngan highlighted Vietnam’s efforts in promoting gender equality and empowerment for women, saying that the gender equality-related issues was noted in the country’s first Constitution in 1946 and this view is consistent throughout all the constitutions of Vietnam and  concretized in several action programmes.

The proportion of female deputies to the 14th NA for the 2016-2021 term is 27.2 percent, 19 percent higher than the average rate in Asia and 21 percent of the global average rate. The NA of Vietnam aims to achieve at least 30 percent of female NA deputies in the coming term.

Vietnam ranks 69 out of 144 countries in terms of narrowing the gap between men and women in all sectors, being one of the 10 best performers in the world in promoting gender equality and empowerment for women and girls, improving the knowledge of girls and increasing the participation of women in the workforce.

Chairperson of the Philippine Commission on Women Remedios I. Rikken expressed her impression for achievements Vietnam has made in the field of gender equality, women's participation in political activities. She also shared some important achievements of the Philippines in the field.

Ngan congratulated the Philippines on the achievements made in three years as it held the chairmanship of AMMW, saying that obstacles and shortcomings in Vietnam and other ASEAN nations make it difficult for women to access resources, participate in the labour market and enjoy social security services.

She expressed her wish that ministers in charge of women issues in ASEAN countries will continue work hard to promote gender equality and empowerment of women; ensuring equal opportunities in terms of education, employment and access to social security towards the common goals of the ASEAN Community 2025 and the UN Agenda 2030.

Vietnam always treasures relations with Malaysia: PM

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail

Vietnam always attaches much importance to its relations with Malaysia, one of the country’s leading partners in the region, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has said.

Hosting a reception in Hanoi on October 25 for Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, who is on official visit to Vietnam to attend the third ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Women (AMMW) and related meetings, PM Phuc stressed that Vietnam wants to set up close relations with Malaysia’s new government, ruling party and parliament. 

He suggested both countries enhance high-level delegation exchanges and hoped to welcome Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on his official visit to Vietnam soon.

The two nations have seen advancements in their relations after 45 years of diplomatic ties establishment. Describing Malaysia as one of the most effective economic partners of Vietnam, PM Phuc said that both sides are enjoying fruitful cooperation in maritime issues, labour, tourism, and education-training. 

He expressed his belief that Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, in their talks on October 26, will detail practical measures to bolster bilateral relations in the coming time, thus developing the Vietnam-Malaysia strategic partnership intensively.

On the occasion, he recommended both sides should work to raise two-way trade to 15 billion USD per year or higher by 2020. 

Vietnam wants to stably export rice, farm produce and seafood to Malaysia, he said, proposing the Malaysian Government support Vietnamese firms to satisfy Halal standards.

Regarding investment, Vietnam encourages Malaysian projects in high-quality infrastructure, energy, port, logistics, high-tech agriculture, wood and food processing and smart city development, PM Phuc said.

He hoped that the Malaysian Government will order relevant authorities to create favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in the country, ensuring that they have a stable life.

As both countries have mutual benefits in the region, they should step up cooperation to build an ASEAN Community of solidarity, resilience and development that plays a central role in the regional architecture. In the context of complicated development in the East Sea, Vietnam, Malaysia and other ASEAN members should enhance coordination to reach a common stance.

The Malaysian Deputy Prime Minister said that Malaysia always values the policy of strengthening friendship and collaboration with Vietnam.

As the training programme for Vietnamese officials has been carried out since 1991, Malaysia hopes to welcome more Vietnamese cadres to study, do research and exchange experience in the country. 

She said that Malaysia wants to foster trade ties with Vietnam, who holds a very important role in the region and thanked the Vietnamese Government for facilitating Malaysian businesses’ operation in the country.

As Malaysian PETRONAS Group has been present in Vietnam for a long time, she hoped that the enterprise will continue receiving support from the Vietnamese Government. 

Also, she agreed that both sides should further maritime and fishery cooperation, saying Malaysia wants to ensure maritime security, safety, peace and stability in the East Sea. 

She said that the Malaysian Government always pays due attention to addressing Vietnamese labour issues in the country.

Vietnam calls for closer cooperation between Asian political parties

Hoang Binh Quan, Chairman of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations, speaks at the first plenum of the 10th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP). 

Political parties in Asia should reinforce cooperation to maintain peace, security, prosperity and development in the region and the world as well, said Hoang Binh Quan, Chairman of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations. 

Quan was speaking at the first plenum of the 10th General Assembly of the International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP) that opened in Moscow, Russia, on October 25. 

He called on Asian political parties to heighten the spirit of dialogue and cooperation, build trust and settle disputes and conflicts through peaceful measures based on fundamental principles of the UN Charter and standards of international relations. 

At this year’s general assembly, the CPV was elected as Vice President of the ICAPP Standing Committee.

The two-day event brought together about 500 delegates, including representatives of more than 70 political parties from 40 countries and observers.

The delegates focus on the role of political parties in ensuring international security and fighting extremism, as well as building and developing mutually beneficial political, socio-economic ties between countries. 

Earlier, the CPV delegation paid a courtesy visit to Boris Gryzlov, Chairman of the United Russia Party Supreme Council, and held talks with Evgeny Revenko, Deputy Secretary of the General Council of the United Russia Party.

The two sides committed to making all-out efforts to effectively implement the outcomes of the visit to Russia by General Secretary of the CPV Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong last September. 

They agreed to coordinate with relevant agencies of the two countries to prepare for upcoming visits to Vietnam by Russia’s senior leaders. 

At the same time, they will work to fruitfully realise cooperation agreements reached by the two parties, especially in intensifying political consultations and dialogues in order to continuously promote mutual trust and understanding, contributing to creating a firm political foundation and forging the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership.

More congratulations to new President

General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam for the term of 2016-2021 takes the oath of office. 

Leaders of Cambodia, Singapore, Ukraine, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK), Iran, Panama and foreign parties have sent congratulations to General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong on his election as President of Vietnam.

In his congratulatory letter, Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni expressed his belief that under the sound leadership of President Nguyen Phu Trong, Vietnam will reap greater successes and further prosper in the future as well as continue maintaining its important role in the region and the world. 

He hoped that Cambodia and Vietnam will continue to see thriving solidarity, friendship and cooperation at present and the future.

Meanwhile, Singaporean President Halima Yacob and Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong stressed that Vietnam and Singapore enjoy the fine relationship in all spheres, especially economy, finance, defence and security. They share a lot of common interests and coordinate closely in ASEAN and other multilateral forums.

The Singaporean leaders expressed their wish to work closely with President Nguyen Phu Trong to seek ways to lift bilateral ties to a new height.

Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko, in his message, wrote that the election of Nguyen Phu Trong as President reflects the Vietnamese people’s high confidence in and recognition of his experience, leading capacity and great contributions.

He wished to soon meet President Trong to discuss bilateral ties and international issues of shared concern, thus fostering the Vietnam-Ukraine comprehensive partnership in a more intensive and practical manner.

President of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly of the DPRK Kim Yong Nam expressed his belief that the traditional friendship and cooperation between the two nations will be developed and expanded in the time to come.

In addition, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani, Panama President Juan Cuarlos Varela Rodriguez and National Secretary of the French Communist Party Pierre Laurent cabled their messages of congratulations to the new President of Vietnam.

Ambassadors of countries, including Chile, the US and Brazil, to Vietnam also sent congratulatory letters to President Nguyen Phu Trong. 

The 14th Vietnamese National Assembly on October 23 elected Nguyen Phu Trong as President of Vietnam. 

After the results of the vote were announced, the new President had a swearing-in ceremony, vowing to stay absolutely loyal to the nation, people, and the Constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and to exert every effort to complete all missions assigned by the Party, State, and people.

PM: Women, girls contribute to ASEAN’s resilience, development

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (fifth from left) at the third ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Women 

“We cannot become an ASEAN community of solidarity, resilience, innovation and sustainable development without the engagement of women and girls. Thus, they deserve equality in families and society, protection and empowerment to realise their full rights”, said Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc.

Addressing at the third ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Women (AMMW-3) opened in Hanoi on October 25, PM Phuc spoke highly of the cooperation among ASEAN member states in the Socio-Cultural Community, with the AMMW playing an important role.

ASEAN women have made significant contributions to prosperity in the region, he said, adding that proportion of seats held by women in the ASEAN countries’ parliaments exceeds 20 percent while the number of businesswomen has increased in recent years.

According to the PM, in Vietnam, various initiatives have integrated into national programmes to promote gender equality and improve social welfare for women and children. Vietnam each year spends some 2.6 percent of its GDP on social support programmes, including those for women and girls. Particularly, the Government has strictly carried out the Law on Gender Equality 2006, and the United Nations’ Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women.

Thanks to the efforts, the female representation in the 14th National Assembly accounts for 27.1 percent, a high level as compared to the region and the world, and up to 98 percent of businesses owned by women are small-and medium-sized enterprises, he said.

The government leader also pointed to the existing disadvantage of ASEAN women who make up 45 percent of the bloc’s workforce but earn less than their male peers.

Quoting statistics of the UN Women, which says women only contribute a modest 11 percent to the total export revenue of the bloc although the ASEAN economy expands 5 percent per year in the past decade and is expected to grow additional 30 percent during 2013-2025, PM Phuc said: “These matters urged us to take joint actions and have effective measures to enhance women’s position in the new era”.

He took the occasion to recommend collaboration related women and girls within the bloc in the coming time, which comprises equipping  women with new skills and forming life-long study network in the bloc in line with the jobs’ requirements in the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, ensuring sustainable jobs for all and abolishing all barriers for women to access to employment opportunities, and bettering social welfare to women and girls through completing mechanisms, regulations, and social insurance.

At the event, Vietnamese Minister of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs Dao Ngoc Dung laid stress on social welfare and equality for women and girls, saying that this is the premise for regional advancement and equality.

“We should join hands to build a better future for women and girls in the ASEAN, for a community of opportunity and equality and for an ASEAN of leaving no one behind,” he said.

The AMMW-3 is taking place in Hanoi from October 18-25 in the context that the ASEAN is accelerating the implementation of commitments and priorities in social welfare and gender equality.

 The People’s Committee of the southern province of Tra Vinh on October 25 organised a cultural exchange programme to tighten the friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

The Vietnam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme 2018 was attended by Jun-ichi Kawaue, Japanese Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City, and a crowd of Japanese businesses based in the city and Tra Vinh province.

In his opening remark, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Dong Van Lam said the programme is held to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties (September 21, 1973-2018). 

Through the exchange, Tra Vinh wishes to introduce the Japanese people to the cultural beauties and traditional customs of Vietnam in general and the province in particular, he said.

The local leader took the occasion to thank the Japanese Government for funding many programmes and projects in Tra Vinh over the past time. Among them are a specialised credit programme, a project to improve agricultural promotion system and another on medical equipment supply, which contribute to giving a facelift to the province’s extremely difficult rural areas.

For his part, the Japanese Consul General lauded the fine friendship between the two countries and expressed his wish that Vietnam-Japan exchange will be expanded to many other fields so that Japanese businesses have more conditions to explore investment opportunities in the locality.

The Vietnam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme 2018 featured a wide range of activities, including performances of traditional instruments, folk games, re-enactment of a countryside market day, kimono and ao dai (long dress) shows, and Japanese dance performances.

Japanese and Vietnamese handicrafts and cuisine were also introduced at the event.

Tra Vinh: Exchange programme tightens Vietnam-Japan friendship

The People’s Committee of the southern province of Tra Vinh on October 25 organised a cultural exchange programme to tighten the friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

The Vietnam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme 2018 was attended by Jun-ichi Kawaue, Japanese Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City, and a crowd of Japanese businesses based in the city and Tra Vinh province.

In his opening remark, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Dong Van Lam said the programme is held to celebrate the 45th anniversary of Vietnam-Japan diplomatic ties (September 21, 1973-2018). 

Through the exchange, Tra Vinh wishes to introduce the Japanese people to the cultural beauties and traditional customs of Vietnam in general and the province in particular, he said.

The local leader took the occasion to thank the Japanese Government for funding many programmes and projects in Tra Vinh over the past time. Among them are a specialised credit programme, a project to improve agricultural promotion system and another on medical equipment supply, which contribute to giving a facelift to the province’s extremely difficult rural areas.

For his part, the Japanese Consul General lauded the fine friendship between the two countries and expressed his wish that Vietnam-Japan exchange will be expanded to many other fields so that Japanese businesses have more conditions to explore investment opportunities in the locality.

The Vietnam-Japan Cultural Exchange Programme 2018 featured a wide range of activities, including performances of traditional instruments, folk games, re-enactment of a countryside market day, kimono and ao dai (long dress) shows, and Japanese dance performances.

Japanese and Vietnamese handicrafts and cuisine were also introduced at the event. 

Vietnam calls for enhanced multilateral cooperation in security

Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Ngo Xuan Lich adresses at the forum. 

Vietnamese Minister of National Defence General Ngo Xuan Lich has urged all countries to reinforce cooperation institutions and mechanisms, particularly multilateral ones, to better manage international security.

Delivering his remarks at the 8th Beijing Xiangshan Forum in the capital city of China on October 25, Lich said multilateral cooperation mechanisms would enable nations to not only seek opportunities for mutual development but also solve differences and conflicts.

They should be seen as a new driver to change the world’s politics and shape the Asia-Pacific’s security structure, he said at the forum’s first plenary session on “International Security Governance: New Ideas and Approaches.” 

The minister highlighted the position of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) among regional security cooperation mechanisms and organisations, saying ASEAN has remarkably contributed to the maintenance of peace, stability and cooperation in the region through trust building, preventive diplomacy and conflict management.

The fact that 37 non-ASEAN countries, including world powers and permanent members of the UN Security Council, joined the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation (TAC) in Southeast Asia (TAC) demonstrates the ASEAN’s effectiveness and success in security management in Asia-Pacific, he noted.

Furthermore, the ASEAN has initiated and played a central role in security cooperation mechanisms by creating forums to foster dialogue and partnership in tackling common security issues, he said, adding that the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), East Asia Summit (EAS), ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), and ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM ) have proved effective in trust building as well as conflict management and prevention in the region.

The minister referred China as one of the bloc’s strategic partners that has provided active support and made key contributions to ASEAN-centric mechanisms on security cooperation, like ADMM , with its initiatives and specific solutions. He reiterated the ASEAN’s common stance to bolster comprehensive partnership with China for regional peace, stability, friendship, cooperation and development. 

One of the ASEAN’s successes is to, together with China, adopt the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and engage in negotiation of a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in an attempt to maintain peace, stability, security and freedom of navigation and aviation in the waters.

Lich further said that as a member of the ASEAN, Vietnam has placed high value on strengthening intra-bloc solidarity and put forward a number of initiatives in the group’s security cooperation mechanisms. 

Vietnam will assume the ASEAN Chairmanship in 2020 and one of its goals is to step up partnership with ASEAN and non-ASEAN nations to address common security threats, particularly non-traditional security challenges, and promote development cooperation for the benefit of each country and for peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world, he stressed.

The minister also affirmed Vietnam’s stance to settle territorial disputes through peaceful measures on the basis of international law, provisions of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and agreements reached by Vietnamese and Chinese leaders, without using force or threatening to use force. He said Vietnam wants the two countries to well manage existing issues via dialogues to not sabotage their long-standing relations. 

Initiated by the Chinese Academy of Military Science in 2006, the Beijing Xiangshan Forum, whose original name was the Xiangshan Forum, has developed into a high-level security and defence forum in Asia-Pacific. This year, it is taking place from October 24– 26 under the theme of “Building a New Type of Security Partnership of Equality, Mutual Trust and Win-Win Cooperation”.

The 8th edition focuses discussions on various topics, namely International Security Governance, Global Terrorism – Threats and Countermeasures, Maritime Security Cooperation – Reality and Vision, UN Peacekeeping – Challenges and Cooperation, and others.

Ambassador trusts bright prospect of Vietnam – Argentina ties

Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Dang Xuan Dung expressed his belief in the bright prospects of the two countries’ relations in an interview with the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties (October 25, 1973 – 2018).

Since Vietnam and Argentina set up diplomatic relations in 1973, the two nations have made substantial steps towards developing their ties on the foundation of a parallel history, common interests and mutual trust and understanding, Dung told the VNA.

The first brick of the long-standing relations was laid through the support of Argentina for Vietnam’s struggle for independence and reunification in the 1970s, he said. In January 1995, Vietnam opened an embassy in Buenos Aires, and two years later, the Embassy of Argentina was opened in Hanoi in the presence of Argentine President Carlos Menem, he noted.

The two countries lifted their ties to the level of comprehensive partnership in October 2010.

Today, cooperation between Vietnam and Argentina in the inter-governmental cooperation committee, political consultations between the two ministries of foreign affairs, exchanges of visits and more has been translated into expanded partnerships in most areas, from politics, economics, trade to science and technology, education and culture, the ambassador said.

Furthermore, the two sides have backed each other at international and multilateral forums, including the United Nations (UN), the World Trade Organisation (WTO), and the Forum of East Asia – Latin America Cooperation (FEALAC). They have forged collaboration in education and technical capacity building; held a number of experience sharing forums; and together carried out projects in agriculture, biotechnology, anthropology and genetics, including one to identify the remains of Vietnamese soldiers who went missing in action, according to the diplomat.

Dung also expressed delight at the remarkable progress of the two countries’ trade and economic relations in recent years. In 2017, two-way trade exceeded 3.03 billion USD, of which Vietnam’s exports to Argentina hit 482 million USD, up 32.4 percent from 2016. Argentina is now Vietnam’s second largest trade partner in Latin America while Vietnam is Argentina’s second biggest market in Asia and fourth largest in the world.

Vietnam mostly ships to Argentina footwear and accessories, rubber and rubber products, electronics, clothing and agricultural machines while importing soybeans, maize, wheat, cattle feed and pharmaceutical products. 

He said he is happy to see Vietnamese enterprises have shown greater interest in the Argentine market and did everything possible to access partners via direct contacts or through the Embassy of Vietnam.

The ambassador suggested the two sides expand cooperation in investment, energy, agriculture, telecommunications, education and tourism.

To make this happen, Vietnam and Argentina need to improve the legal framework for their partnership through bilateral agreements. They must make the most of the inter-governmental cooperation committee, with the next meeting to be held on October 25 – 26. The meeting is expected to review and address issues that hinder the two countries’ cooperation.

He added that the two nations must also promote each country’s nature and people, update firms of each side on the other’s market, regulations and business climate, provide the firms with broader market access and promote investment, tourism and people-to-people diplomacy.

He said if these tasks are performed well, the Vietnam – Argentina partnership would thrive further and soon reach the level of strategic ties as expected, bringing benefits to both governments and peoples. 

Vietnamese culture-tourism week opens in Argentina

The Vietnamese Culture and Tourism Week opened in Buenos Aires, Argentina on October 25 on the occasion of the 45th anniversary of the founding of Vietnam-Argentina diplomatic relations (October 25, 1973-2018).

The event drew representatives from the embassies of many countries in Argentina, the friendship associations of both countries, the Argentina-Vietnam Culture Institute (ICAV) and many travel firms and locals.

Addressing the event, a representative from the Vietnamese Embassy in Argentina introduced the history, cultural diversity and tradition of Vietnam as well as the country’s achievements.

Highlighting the tourism potential as well as famous landscapes of Vietnam such as Ha Long Bay, Sa Pa, Da Nang and Hue, the representative said Vietnam has become an attractive destination for Argentine tourists, with about 10,000 visitors per year.

Meanwhile, Secretary of Tourism of Santa Fe province, which is adjacent to Buenos Aires, Martin Bulos congratulated Vietnam on the country’s socio-economic attainments over the years, with average GDP growth of nearly 7 percent.

Bulos briefed participants on tourism in Santa Fe, underlining that the cultural week will promote friendship and mutual understanding between people of Argentina and Vietnam.

During the event, travel firms of both countries had a chance to meet and seek partnerships. A photo exhibition was also held to introduce Vietnam.

Vietnam, India identify cooperation areas to bolster bilateral trade 

Vietnam and India have defined biotechnology in agriculture and healthcare, super-computing and remote sensing as among key areas to drive bilateral trade to 15 billion USD by 2020, the Indian government has said.

In a statement, India’s Ministry of Commerce and Industry noted that Vietnam requires technological assistance for its socio-economic and trade development and India is an appropriate partner.

It continued that both countries have identified biotechnology in agriculture and healthcare, technology for new materials, IT and electronics, super-computing, nuclear energy for peaceful uses, science and technology, remote sensing and non-traditional energy as areas that can help expand trade and investment.

The issues were discussed at a meeting on October 24 between Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development of Vietnam led by Deputy Minister Tran Thanh Nam and the Trade Promotion Council of India.

Business opportunities and cooperation between India and Vietnam as well as ways and means to promote Indusfood, a trade fair for Indian food and farm produce in Vietnam, were also discussed.

Statistics of the General Department of Vietnam Customs showed that two-way trade turnover hit 6.36 billion USD in the first seven months of 2018.