VietNamNet Bridge – More attention from leaders would reduce complaints from citizens, legislators agreed at yesterday's discussion.

"Many pressing issues have been handled thanks to the efforts of leaders to meet with citizens," said deputy Nguyen Thi Kim Thuy from Da Nang Province, who believes the law should include sanctions for leaders who do not meet with citizens.

Some deputies added that the law should state when and where commune chairmen should hold these meetings.

Deputies discussed which organisations and units would take responsibility for meeting with citizens, deputies, People's Councils and People's Council representatives at all levels. There was consensus that the law should not only emphasise meetings but also simplify the process for handling complaints.

Earlier, deputies heard reports by the Government and NA National Defence and Security Committee on the new bill on entry, exit and residence of foreign nationals in Viet Nam.

Under the law, which aims to strengthen security, foreigners with many passports provided by different countries can only use one nationality for entry, exit and residence purposes in Viet Nam.

Foreigners are prohibited from changing their purpose of entry, excepting some special cases for temporary residents who are members of foreign affair organisations, consuls, UN representatives or students of Universities and colleges in Viet Nam.

A foreigner with a permanent resident status card must renew it every 10 years. This status is determined by the Ministry of Security.

The validity of temporary residence cards would be increased to five years from the current three years. Excellent scientists and experts with temporary resident status would be considered for permanent residence.

Deputies also heard reports by the Government and the Chief Justice of the Supreme People's Court on crime, the results of implementation of the NA's Resolution 37/2012/QH13 and the revised customs bills.

Source: VNS