The meeting between Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung (third, right) and chairman and managing director of the Jardine Matheson Group Ben Keswick (second, left) in Hanoi on September 10 (Photo: baochinhphu.vn)

Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung has urged the Jardine Matheson Group of the UK to expand investment in Vietnam, suggesting potential areas such as infrastructure, energy, support industry and tourism.

At a reception for the group’s chairman and managing director Ben Keswick in Hanoi on September 10, Deputy PM said Vietnam is restructuring State-owned enterprises and groups, which bring many opportunities for international investors.

“The Vietnamese government and agencies will continue to create favourable conditions for foreign investors such as Jardine Matheson Group to expand their production, business and investment in Vietnam,” Dung said.

He took the occasion to express joy at the development of the Vietnam-UK strategic partnership, particularly the growing economic, trade and investment ties. Bilateral trade between the two countries rose 9.5 percent to reach 6.74 billion USD in 2018.

Keswick agreed with the host that Vietnam has great potential and offers many opportunities for investors with commitment to long-term investment.

He appreciated the Vietnamese government’s policies to attract investment and improve business environment, and affirmed that his group will continue to expand its presence in Vietnam while studying new possibilities in areas of Vietnam’s priority.

Middle East, African ambassadors hail economic cooperation with Vietnam

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh (R) and ambassadors of Middle East and African countries at the meeting

Ambassadors from Middle East and African countries expressed their belief that the economic and trade cooperation with Vietnam will thrive in the coming time while answering questions of the Vietnam News Agency’s reporters on the sidelines of a meeting in Hanoi on September 9-10.

Egyptian Ambassador to Vietnam Mahmoud Hasan Nayel said the bilateral trade growth in 2018 reached 25 percent. Vietnam and Egypt have similar economic development models that encourage exports.

He added that Egypt’s major economic zones are attracting investment from Vietnam.

While mentioning support policies of the Egyptian Government for Vietnamese businesses, the ambassador said his country backs free trade agreements and it is one of the first members of the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

Egypt will create equal opportunities for investors from all countries, especially Vietnam, he said, adding that he hoped more new measures will be deployed to make it easier for the Vietnamese business community to operate in Egypt.

Meanwhile Tanzanian Ambassador to Vietnam Mbewa Brighton Kairuki said there is large room for Vietnam and Tanzania to cooperate in telecommunication and garment-textile. Vietnamese firms could build factories to produce garment products for export.

While evaluating the contributions of Vietnamese businesses in Tanzania, he said Tanzania is one of the few countries that Vietnamese telecom group Viettel is making investment, creating jobs for 3,000 people, including 1,000 direct workers. The group is also expanding its network in Tanzania.

Besides investment, Vietnam is one of the leading importers of Tanzanian products, he said, adding that local farmers are receiving benefits from Vietnamese enterprises.

Yemeni Ambassador to Vietnam Adel Mohamed Ali Ba Hamid said Vietnam is among the top 10 trade partners of Yemen in Asia and believed that the Southeast Asian country will rise to the first position in the next five years.

He added that many cooperation projects are being implemented by the two countries.

In October, a workshop will be held in Ho Chi Minh City with the attendance of businesses from the two nations to discuss cooperation opportunities in the field of oil and gas, he revealed.

PM welcomes cooperation with Middle East-African countries

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (L) meets with ambassadors of Middle East and African countries

Vietnam always welcomes and opens door for cooperation with Middle East-African countries for mutual benefits and development, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc affirmed at a reception in Hanoi on September 10 for ambassadors from Middle East and Africa.

The Government leader hailed the initiative to hold a meeting with ambassadors from the Middle East and Africa on expanding economic ties between Vietnam and the regions.

He said in its foreign policy, Vietnam always attaches great importance to the traditional friendship and cooperation with Middle East and African friends, adding that the collaboration between Vietnam and Middle East -African countries has seen positive development in all fields from politics, diplomacy, trade-investment, agriculture, education, and science-technology to tourism and culture.

PM Phuc noted that although two-way trade increased by 300 percent against 2010 to reach 22.5 billion USD in 2018, the potential remains huge for cooperation between Vietnam and the Middle East-African region. He stressed that ambassadors and diplomatic missions of Middle East-African countries play a significant role in helping the two sides fully tap the potential.

The PM suggested the two sides work together in such potential fields as trade, investment, agriculture, information technology and communication, energy, education-training, labour and tourism.

Besides bilateral cooperation, the two sides should expand collaboration in the region and the world, he recommended.

The PM welcomed the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Vietnam’s preparation for the signing of an agreement to set up a dialogue mechanism, and urged accelerating the establishment of official relations between Vietnam and the African Union and expanding cooperation between Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and other regional and sub-regional organisations in the Middle East-African region.

PM Phuc called on regional and international organisations, and development agencies of developed economies to accompany Vietnam and Middle East-African countries in carry out trilateral and quadrilateral cooperation activities towards realising common development goals.

On behalf of the delegation of ambassadors, Ambassador of Djibouti to Vietnam Admed Araita Ali described the meeting of ambassadors from Middle East-Africa, an initiative of Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry, as a useful activity. In the context of rising global protectionism, the cooperation between Middle East-Africa and Vietnam proves the significance of opening the market, he said.

Vietnam’s National Day celebrated in Russia

Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Ngo Duc Manh (R) speaks at the event

The Vietnamese Embassy in Russia has recently hosted a ceremony to celebrate Vietnam’s 74th National Day (Sept. 2).

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Ngo Duc Manh affirmed that the National Day is an important milestone of the country. The Vietnamese people have shown their solidarity, bravery and steadfastness and overcome a range of difficulties and challenges to obtain huge achievements in safeguarding national independence and freedom as well as in national construction and development.

The ambassador also expressed his gratitude to the Russian people for their great and effective support and assistance to Vietnam during its struggle for national independence and post-war construction process.

For his part, Special Representative of Russian President on International Cultural Cooperation Mikhail Shvydkoy said he is impressed by Vietnam’s dynamic development over the past 30 years.

Vietnam’s election as non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for the 2020-2021 tenure is solid proof of the country’s efforts, he said.

Shvydkoy voiced his delight at the warm relations between leaders of the two countries and noted that the Vietnam-Russia Friendship Year and the Russia-Vietnam Friendship Year will create a new impulse for the bilateral ties in all fields, ranging from military technology to and cultural exchange.

PM wants stronger trade, investment ties with Saudi Arabia

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Vietnam Saud F.M Al Suwelim

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc suggested Vietnam and Saudi Arabia step up cooperation in various fields such as trade, labour, and investment while hosting the new Ambassador of Saudi Arabia to Vietnam Saud F.M Al Suwelim in Hanoi on September 10.

He hoped the ambassador will make active contributions to the sound relations between the two countries as well as coordinate effectively with relevant agencies to help both countries fully tap their bilateral cooperation potential.

The PM recommended the two sides support each other at multilateral forums, emphasising that 2020 is an important year for both countries when Vietnam plays the role of ASEAN Chair while Saudi Arabia takes the G20 Presidency.

For his part, the ambassador said Saudi Arabia attaches great importance to the relations with Vietnam, adding that his important task during the working tenure in Vietnam is promoting the bilateral cooperation in all fields, including trade and investment.

The ambassador told the PM that he had worked with some ministries and departments of Vietnam to seek stronger collaboration in health care and trade.

Saudi Arabia has an open market, so this is a great chance for the two sides’ businesses to step up trade and investment partnership, he added.

Vietnam to facilitate investment in Cuba: PM

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz in Hanoi on September 10

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc received Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Foreign Investment Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz in Hanoi on September 10, pledging to encourage Vietnamese firms’ investment in the Caribbean nation.

Welcoming the delegation to Vietnam for a meeting of the Vietnam-Cuba Intergovernmental Committee, PM Phuc said Vietnam is delighted at the socio-economic achievements Cuba has obtained recently, noting that the two peoples have a special and faithful relationship that is increasingly consolidated.

Minister Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz vowed every effort to help the inter-governmental committee work effectively.

He said although the Cuban economy is facing numerous difficulties due to sanctions, it is still striving to move forwards. He also appreciated Vietnam’s rice supply for his country and expressed his hope that the Vietnamese Government will create conditions for businesses to continue the provision.

Highlighting both countries’ resolve to raise bilateral trade to 500 million USD in 2020, the official said Cuba wants to boost exports to Vietnam, especially healthcare services and biological products, and also wishes to attract more investment from the Southeast Asian nation as there are many Vietnamese firms operating effectively in Cuba at present.

Cuba is considering mechanism and policy improvements to better its investment climate and attract more foreign investment, he noted, adding that as Vietnam is experienced in agriculture, his country hopes Vietnam will assist it in this field.

As the two countries will mark 60 years of their diplomatic relationship in 2020, they should work closely together to organise many practical celebratory activities so as to further promote the traditional friendship, Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz said.

He added Cuba highly values Vietnam’s growing role and stature, especially when Vietnam will serve as a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council for 2020-2021 and the ASEAN chair next year.

At the reception, PM Phuc said the Communist Party and people of Vietnam always keep in mind the strong support and wholehearted assistance from the Communist Party and people of Cuba during the struggle for national independence and reunification in the past as well as the building of a socialist nation at present.

Vietnam will continue to work closely with Cuba to ensure stable rice supply and promote its investment in the Caribbean country, he affirmed.

Regarding agricultural cooperation, Vietnam is ready to assist Cuba on the basis of the latter’s potential and advantages, he said, welcoming Cuba’s intention to boost the export of healthcare services to Vietnam.

The PM also asked the two countries’ ministries and sectors to continue researching solutions to advance bilateral relations in a result-oriented manner.

He stressed that Vietnam always supports the Cuban people’s just fight and consistently advocates Cuba’s stance at UN forums.

Deputy PM calls for stronger int’l cooperation in fight against drugs

Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh (R) greets delegates to the ministerial meeting on drug crime combat in Hanoi on September 10

Deputy Prime Minister Truong Hoa Binh stressed the need for all countries to make joint efforts in the fight against drug crime while receiving heads of delegations attending a ministerial meeting in Hanoi on September 10.

The ministerial meeting on enhancing the effectiveness of cooperation in fighting transnational drug crime was held in Hanoi the same day at the initiative of the Vietnamese Ministry of Public Security. It attracted nearly 200 delegates from Cambodia, Laos, China, Thailand, Myanmar, the Philippines, Vietnam, the US’ Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Australian Federal Police (AFP), and the Regional Office of Southeast Asia and the Pacific of the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).

At the reception, Binh said drug production and trafficking remain complex and are growing at an alarming rate around the world. Drug crime has negatively affected the lives of communities and the development of all nations.

Facing that fact, regional countries have carried out a number of cooperation activities to control the drug situation, and they have obtained encouraging outcomes, the Deputy PM noted.

He emphasised that together with other countries, the Vietnamese Government has always made efforts to implement comprehensive and balanced measures in drug prevention and control, with attention paid to reducing both drug supply and demand.

In 2019, Vietnam’s anti-drug forces have coordinated closely with foreign peers to seized several tonnes of drugs, most of which were destined for other countries.

Binh noted Vietnam and other ASEAN countries have pledged to eradicate the scourge of drugs for the sake of a drug-free ASEAN. To realise that commitment, they have implemented many cooperation initiatives effectively such as the ASEAN ministers and senior officials’ meetings on drug matters, the ASEAN centre for drug crime information, the ASEAN working group on fighting drug trafficking by air and sea, and the ASEAN plan on drug control in the Golden Triangle area.

The Deputy PM highlighted that drug crime is a global issue that no single country can resolve on its own, but all countries need to join hands in the combat.

Vietnam highly values the DEA, AFP and UNODC’s support for the countries to carry out cooperation activities in the work in the region, he said, calling for all nations and international organisations to pay more attention to and continue supporting the fight against drugs.

Through the ministerial meeting, the Vietnamese Government wants to affirm its continued enhancement of cooperation with regional and partner countries and international organisations in the fight against drugs, thereby joining the international community’s efforts to address this global issue, Binh added.

Bac Ninh shares experience in labour, employment with Cuba

Cuban Minister of Labour and Social Security Margarita M. Gonzalez Fernandez (L) hands over a souvenir to Bac Ninh province

A delegation of the Cuban Ministry of Labour and Social Security led by Minister Margarita M. Gonzalez Fernandez paid a visit to the northern province of Bac Ninh on September 10 to exchange experience in labour and employment.

At the meeting, Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Tu Quynh informed his guests on the socio-economic development of Bac Ninh. The province has led the country in industrial production value, and is also among the leading localities in various economic indicators.

Regarding employment, the chairman said local workers only satisfy 30 percent of labour demand in the province’s industrial parks. In addition, local craft villages create jobs for a large number of workers, therefore unemployment is almost non-existent in the province.

There are 10 universities and more than 40 colleges and vocational schools in Bac Ninh, which provide a remarkable source of trained workers. In addition, the province has devised policies to support businesses in training labourers.

The official cited statistics that showed Bac Ninh has more than 727,000 workers aged 15 and above, with more than half (50.8 percent) employed in industry and construction, over 32 percent in services, and 17 percent in agro-forestry-fishery.

The province has set up an employment centre under the provincial Department of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs to help local labourers seek jobs.

At the event, the Cuban delegation inquired into the investment situation in the province and sectors contributing the most to local socio-economic development. They were also interested in solutions to create jobs and ensure social welfare in the province.

The same day, the Cuban delegation visited the Viglacera Infrastructure Development and Investment Company at the province’s Tien Son Industrial Park.

Vietnam values economy-trade cooperation with US: Party official

Head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission Nguyen Van Binh (R) and US Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Asia Robert Kaproth

Vietnam considers economy-trade a pillar in its cooperation with the US, stated head of the Party Central Committee’s Economic Commission Nguyen Van Binh.

He made the statement while receiving Robert Kaproth, US Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Treasury for Asia, in Hanoi on September 10.

Binh took the occasion to express his delight at the development of the Vietnam – US comprehensive partnership in all fields toward effectiveness and practical outcomes. The Party official affirmed Vietnam attaches importance to and wants to further strengthening the ties with the US, which is one of the leading partners of Vietnam.

He made it clear that the Vietnamese Party and Government pay attention to reinforcing economic and trade collaboration with the US, creating favourable conditions for US investors in Vietnam, and facilitating joint projects with US enterprises.

For his part, Kaproth told his host about a number of priorities in his country’s economic policy and bilateral cooperation with Vietnam.

Welcoming the US’s ideas for regional collaboration, Binh said now is a favourable time for the two nations to boost quality investment in the sectors of energy, science-technology, and infrastructure. He noted such cooperation will help increase the US’s investment in Vietnam and improve their trade balance.

NA Vice Chairman appreciates Japan’s ODA capital

Vice Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Phung Quoc Hien (R) receives JICA Vice President Yasushi Tanaka in Hanoi on September 10

Japan’s official development assistance (ODA) capital coordinated by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) has contributed to Vietnam’s socio-economic development in the past years, especially in infrastructure development, said a high-ranking law-maker.

While receiving JICA Vice President Yasushi Tanaka in Hanoi on September 10, Vice Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly Phung Quoc Hien also praised JICA’s important contributions to Vietnam-Japan relations.

Vietnam has used ODA capital for right purposes and in a transparent and effective manner, he said, adding that the quality of ODA-funded projects has been remarkably improved.

Having affirmed the NA’s support for the Vietnam-Japan extensive strategic partnership, Hien said there remained huge potential for the development of friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two nations as well as their localities.

JICA helped the Vietnamese NA to improve the qualifications of its office staff, thereby enhancing the legislature’s operations, the Vice Chairman said.

Hien suggested JICA continue backing Japan’s economic ties with Vietnam and affirmed that Vietnam always creates favourable conditions for Japanese enterprises to invest in the Southeast Asian country.

For his part, Tanaka said JICA will continue to assist Vietnam in training human resources, improving its investment-business environment and developing its infrastructure.

Deputy Chief of General Staff receives Cambodia military police officer

Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) Senior Lieutenant General Pham Ngoc Minh (R) hosted a reception in Hanoi on September 10 for Deputy Command of the Cambodia National Military Police General On Sok-khon (Photo: www.qdnd.vn)

Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army (VPA) Senior Lieutenant General Pham Ngoc Minh hosted a reception in Hanoi on September 10 for Deputy Command of the Cambodia National Military Police General On Sok-khon.

Sen. Lt. Gen. Minh told his guest that Vietnam always attaches importance to developing the solidarity with the Government, people and army of Cambodia, and will do its best to preserve and strengthen the ties between the two countries.

Noting that defence is an important pillar of Vietnam-Cambodia relations, Minh stressed that bilateral cooperation in this field has contributed greatly to consolidating security and national sovereignty of each country, and helped defeat reactionary and hostile forces’ schemes to separate the solidarity and friendship between the people and armies of the two countries.

He expressed joy at the increasingly development of cooperation between the two armies, including between the Cambodia military police command with agencies of the VPA, as seen through the exchange of delegations, sharing of expertise and experience, and joint work in education and training.

Gen. On Sok-khon informed his host on the outcomes of working sessions between his delegation and some agencies of the Vietnam Defence Ministry.

He emphasized that the Cambodia army and people always treasure the traditional friendship with Vietnam and will unceasingly work to develop the Cambodia-Vietnam ties under the motto “Good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, and comprehensive, long-term and sustainable cooperation.”

Vietnamese, Cuban news agencies seek stronger partnership

General Director of the Vietnam News Agency Nguyen Duc Loi (R) welcomes President of the Prensa Latina news agency of Cuba Luis Enrique Gonzalez Acosta in Hanoi on September 10

General Director of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) Nguyen Duc Loi and President of the Prensa Latina (PL) news agency of Cuba Luis Enrique Gonzalez Acosta held talks in Hanoi on September 10 to review outcomes of the bilateral cooperation and discuss measures to strengthen their partnership in the future.

The PL leader extended greetings to the VNA on its 74th founding anniversary and thanked the Vietnamese news agency for its effective support over the years.

Without the support and assistance from the VNA, it would be hard for the PL to accomplish all tasks assigned in the context that Cuba is facing tightening economic embargoes, he stated.

Realising the signed bilateral agreement, the two sides have provided each other with news, pictures and TV news in English, French and Spanish, while sending experts to work in each other’s office. The VNA-run Vietnam Pictorial has been printed and published in Cuba and the Latin American region.

Lauding the exchange of news in Spanish between the two sides, the VNA leader affirmed that PL news is an important source for the VNA, especially in updating readers with information of Latin America and Venezuela.

PL experts have worked effectively in the VNA in producing Spanish news and helping train young editors as well as printing and publishing the Vietnam Pictorial in Spanish for the Latin America region, he noted.

PL reporters have actively covered news of Vietnam, while sending entries to the National Awards on News on External Affairs. A work on Vietnamese children by Mariela Venezuela Perez during her working in Vietnam won second prize of the award in 2018, while another by a reporter teams led by Alberto Salazar Gutierrez also won consolation prize, Loi highlighted.

He said that the VNA always gives best support to PL reporters and experts in Vietnam.

For his part, Luis Enrique Gonzalez Acosta said that the PL is willing to support the VNA by sending its experts to work in the VNA. After returning to their homeland, the PL experts said that they learnt a lot from the time in Vietnam.

During the talks, the two sides agreed on a number of measures to strengthen their cooperation efficiency, including the increase of the publishing of the Spanish edition of the Vietnam Pictorial in the Latin America. This is also one of the major contents of a project to develop national press for foreign service of the VNA, which has been approved by the Prime Minister of Vietnam.

The two sides concurred to increase news of activities held in each country on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of the Vietnam-Cuba diplomatic relations, highlighting the traditional friendship and solidarity between the two Parties, States and nations as well as prospects for bilateral partnership.

They also discussed the organization of photo exhibitions on socio-economic situation, the image of the land and people of each country on this special occasion.

Leaders of the two news agencies also sought measures to enhance their professional cooperation in the future, thus promoting the growth and prestige of each agency in the region and the world.

Vietnamese, Cuban journalists’ associations exchange professional experience
 

Ho Quang Loi (left), Vice President of the Vietnam Journalists’ Association (VJA), during talks with President of the Cuban Association of Journalists (UPEC) Ricardo Ronquillo Bello in Havana on September 9.

Ho Quang Loi, Vice President of the Vietnam Journalists’ Association (VJA), held talks with President of the Cuban Association of Journalists (UPEC) Ricardo Ronquillo Bello in Havana on September 9, during which they exchanged experience in press development in the new time.

At the meeting, Loi suggested the two associations expand their cooperation and exchange lecturers and students of their vocational training centres.

He spoke of Vietnam’s experience in implementing the 2016 Law on Press, with amendments matching the new situation, and regulations on professional ethics of journalists.

Loi briefed his hosts of the development of the media sector in Vietnam and presented methods to adapt to the era of blooming information and improve journalistic skills.

For his part, Ricardo touched upon new technologies used in the press circle in Cuba and the transformation of Cuba’s media and the UPEC in particular in the new circumstances.

On this occasion, the UPEC opened a photo exhibition on late President Ho Chi Minh, displaying works by press agencies of the two countries, including many that have never been released before.

Loi described the works as invaluable heritage of Vietnam and Cuba, and the two associations.

During the stay in Cuba, the VJA delegation is scheduled to meet officials from the Communist Party of Cuba and visit some key media agencies and press training institutions in the country.

Vietnam values ties with Cuba: Minister

At the 37th meeting of the Vietnam-Cuba Inter-Governmental Committee in Hanoi on September 10

The Vietnamese Party, State and people always treasure the fraternal solidarity, traditional friendship and comprehensive cooperation with Cuba, and want to expand collaboration in the fields of both sides’ strengths so as to benefit the development in each nation, Minister of Construction Pham Hong Ha stressed on September 10.

At the 37th meeting of the Vietnam-Cuba Inter-Governmental Committee in Hanoi, Minister Ha further said the bilateral relations have been increasingly consolidated across politics, diplomacy, economy, culture, defence-security, and science-technology, adding the two sides have supported each other at multilateral forums, making contributions to increasing their prestige in the region and in the world.

Enhancing the exchange of high-level delegations in 2019 is a vivid illustration for their desire to further improve political trust as well as experience sharing in Party building and socio-economic development in each country, he underlined.

Ha expressed his delight at the great achievements attained by the Cuban Party, State and people over the past time, particularly positive results during the process of updating its economic model.

For his part, Cuban Minister of Foreign Trade and Investment Rodrigo Malmierca Diaz said the meeting once again affirmed the sound trade ties between the two nations.

Both sides have worked to accelerate the implementation of the new trade deal reached during the Vietnam visit by President of the Council of State and Council of Ministers of Cuba Miguel Mario Diaz Canel last year, he said, believing the pact will contribute to promoting and diversifying two-way trade in the time ahead.

Cooperation between the two countries has been boosted in various sectors, especially agriculture, food processing and health care. They have organised an array of trade promotion events, and are preparing for the Havana International Fair 2019. Regarding tourism, Cuba saw a significant surge in the number of Vietnamese visitors in 2018.

The country is facing formidable economic challenges, particularly the US’s tightened trade embargo has affected the country’s development and local livelihood, he said, adding this has worsened the slow payment for Vietnamese businesses.

The Cuban Government affirms its determination to fulfill all payment obligations, and is thankful to relevant authorities in Vietnam for their trust and support for the American country to seek rational solutions to the problem, he said.

According to the Cuban minister, Vietnam is currently the second largest trade partner of Cuba in Asia, and among the top 20 trade partners of the country in the world. As Cuba is running a trade deficit with Vietnam, he expected that more Cuban products and services will have chances to hit the shelves in the Vietnamese market in the coming time. By that way, Cuba will have better foreign currency reserve to complete its payment duty.

Besides, he took the occasion to call for further Vietnamese investments to Cuba, saying the country wants to foster collaboration in finance and banking.

At the event, both sides agreed to carry out the evaluation on the implementation of the commitments at the 36th meeting, and results of the medium-term bilateral economic agenda during 2014-2019. Furthermore, they reached consensus on the cooperation content of the 37th meeting, identified main contents of the bilateral agenda during 2020-2025, and defined priorities in their economic cooperation together with practical measures to remove bottlenecks for trade and investment activities.

Vietnam attends UNHRC’s 43nd session on climate change

Ambassador Duong Chi Dung (second from left) at the 42nd session of the UN Human Rights Council.(Photo: VNA)

Ambassador Duong Chi Dung, head of Vietnam’s Permanent Mission to the UN, the WTO and other international organisations, is leading a Vietnamese delegation to attend the 42nd session of the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) on the impact of climate change on human rights, which opened in Geneva on September 9.

The event drew the participation of 47 member states, and more than 100 observer states, international organisations and non-governmental organisations.

In her remarks at the opening session, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet reiterated the priority to promote human rights amid global climate change, saying never before has the world faced such a formidable challenge.

Chaotic weather patterns and other manifestations of the environmental emergency are reversing major development gains, exacerbating conflict, displacement and social tension, hampering economic growth and shaping increasingly harsh inequalities, she said.

Bachelet said the UNHRC has a critical role to play, with both existing and innovative means to contribute to climate response, pointing out five key points that should guide global action on climate, including climate change undermining rights, development and peace; effective climate action requiring broad and meaningful participation; actions needed to protect those who defend the environment; support for small island nations that suffer the most catastrophic effects of climate change; and the business community having a significant role in climate action.

Besides, the UN commissioner also drew the UNHRC’s attention to other human rights situations such as tension in Kashmir, protests in Hong Kong (China), children of migrant families in the US and Mexico, and migrants in the Mediterranean Sea.

Welcoming advancement in ensuring human rights in many other nations, she said that with strong cooperation, commitment and efforts, the nations will be able to protect their achievements in ensuring human rights.

The 42nd session, which will last until September 27, is scheduled to pass more than 25 draft resolutions on human rights.

Vietnam welcomes US Gen X Energy’s projects: Deputy PM

Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue (R) and Gen X Energy CEO Scott Kicker

The Vietnamese Government always rolls out red carpet for US-based Gen X Energy’s high-tech projects which are friendly with the environment, said Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue on September 9.

Hosting a reception for Gen X Energy CEO Scott Kicker in Hanoi, Deputy PM Hue stressed the US firm’s projects are in line with the Vietnamese Government’s priority in foreign investment attraction, adding that the Southeast Asian country is interested in importing liquefied natural gas (LNG) and developing gas electricity plants to ensure sufficient energy for economic development.

He spoke highly of Gen X Energy’s cooperation with relevant sides to land investment in Vietnam, expressing his belief that the move will make significant contributions to boosting collaboration in trade and investment.

The official also underlined that Vietnam expects more US investments to improve bilateral trade balance.

For his part, Kicker informed his host that Gen X Energy had worked with leaders of the southern province of Ba Ria-Vung Tau to outline a plan for a LNG complex in the locality. Comprising a large-scale LNG storehouse, the project will help reduce costs while distributing gas to power plants in Vietnam.

As the company has a plan to develop a gas electricity plant in Vietnam, he asked the Vietnamese Government and competent ministries and sectors to put its project into the national power planning, as well as direct relevant sides to carry out the project.

Deputy PM Hue asked the US firm and its Vietnamese partners to make detailed reports on the plant’s scale and total investment before submitting to the Prime Minister for approval.

Vice President welcomes Prensa Latina news agency delegation

Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh (R) receives Prensa Latina President Luis Enrique Gonzalez Acosta in Hanoi on September 9

Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh received a delegation of the Prensa Latina news agency (Cuba) led by its President Luis Enrique Gonzalez Acosta in Hanoi on September 9.

Director General of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) Nguyen Duc Loi also attended the reception.

Vice President Thinh said the Vietnamese Party and State always treasure the special time-tested friendship and cooperation with Cuba. She expressed her delight at the comprehensive development of bilateral cooperation in multiple spheres, especially the exchange of high-ranking delegations that include her official visit to Cuba in July.

Thinh congratulated the country on the adoption of its new constitution and the increasing perfection of its legal system, voicing her belief that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Cuba, it will make stronger development strides.

She highlighted that Vietnam always keeps in mind the precious assistance that Cuba has given to it during the struggle for national liberation in the past as well as national development at present.

Regarding the sanctions imposed against Cuba, Thinh said Vietnam is against that policy, and it always supports the revolution of the nation.

At the meeting, the host also highly valued the relationship between the VNA and Prensa Latina over the past more than 50 years with various fruitful joint activities like information sharing, personnel training and delegation exchanges.

She said she believes that with the support of Vietnamese and Cuban Party and State leaders, their collaboration will become even more effective in the future.

As Vietnam and Cuba will celebrate 60 years of the diplomatic relationship in 2020, the two news agencies should increase sharing information about activities marking the anniversary in the countries while reporting news on each side’s socio-economic development and the traditional friendship in a timely, precise and objective manner, Vice President Thinh added.

For his part, the Prensa Latina President said the Cuba visit in July by Vice President Thinh helped further solidify the countries’ fraternal solidarity and comprehensive cooperation, on the basis of which the two agencies have coordinated closely with each other at international forums.

He affirmed that Prensa Latina will continue working closely with the VNA to help successfully organise celebrations of the 60-year diplomatic relationship next year, thereby lifting their relations to a new height that matches the two countries’ political connections.

The Prensa Latina delegation is on a working visit to Vietnam from September 9 to 14 as an annual exchange activity between the two news agencies.

Vietnam attends Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs Conference in Thailand

A high-ranking military delegation led by Lieutenant General Nguyen Tan Cuong, Deputy Chief of the General Staff of the Vietnam People’s Army, is attending the 11th Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs Conference (IPACC) taking place in Bangkok, Thailand, from September 9-11. 

Themed “Achieving Sustainable Security: A new Perspective for Indo-Pacific Armies”, the conference aims to boost trust, mutual understanding and collaboration among land forces in the region.

At the same time, the Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS) and Senior Enlisted Leaders Forum (SELF) are being held in Bangkok, discussing measures to develop trust among Indo-Pacific land forces to reduce risk and conflict, and enhance resiliency through leadership and professional development, development of ethical and trusted land force professionals in an information-saturated environment.

Attending the opening ceremonies of the conferences, Thai Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha affirmed the conferences create a foundation for army chiefs at all levels to work together to ensure sustainable security.

In a bid to handle potential traditional and non-traditional security challenges, armies should be an effective tool of the governments to keep national stability, he said.

Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Apirat Kongsongpong expressed his hope that the conferences will help regional armed forces promote partnership for sustainability.

Meanwhile, Chief of Staff of the US Army James C. McConville said the conferences create a good opportunity to gather army chiefs to develop alliance, partnership and cooperation.

The biennial Indo-Pacific Army Chiefs Conference (IPACC) brings together the most senior land power commanders to establish and foster personal relationships while addressing mutual interests and challenges in the region. This year, the event is co-hosted by the US Chief of Staff of the Army and the Commander in Chief of the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

The long-term objective of IPACC/IPAMS is to promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region through mutual understanding, dialogue, and friendship. Both conferences have been preeminent signature events for security cooperation by bringing together dozens of nations in the hopes of creating new avenues for bilateral and multilateral cooperation, and enabling dialogue about the most pressing security challenges in one of the globe’s most volatile regions.

Malaysia’s Independence Day observed in HCM City

At the get-together to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Malaysia’s Independence Day (August 31)

A get-together to mark the 62nd anniversary of the Malaysia’s Independence Day (August 31) was held by the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organisations (HUFO) in the city on September 9.

In his remarks, Chairman of the Vietnam-Malaysia Friendship Association Tran Ngoc Son stressed the bilateral relations have been consolidated and developed in various sectors like trade and investment, education, security, defence and people-to-people exchange.

Both nations have enhanced the exchange of high-level delegations to improve political trust, while effectively coordinating at regional and international forums, he said.

Son added that on the basis of the fruitful ties in economy, security-defence, labour and tourism, Ho Chi Minh City authorities and the Malaysian General Consulate in the southern hub have joined hands to organise a wide range of people-to-people exchange activities so as to further develop the friendship and comprehensive collaboration.

Acting Consul General Raja Hanizam Putra, for his part, noted Vietnam and Malaysia share similarities in their histories, as they were all colonies and had to struggle for independence.

The two nations have enjoyed thriving all-round collaboration, he said, adding two-way trade has tripled in the past 10 years and they are looking towards a 15 billion USD trade revenue in 2020.

Registering some 13 billion USD in 600 projects, Malaysia is among large foreign investors in Vietnam. The number of Vietnamese tourists to Malaysia has increased through years, showing potential and strong development in the bilateral ties.

Progress recorded in cooperation with Middle East-Africa: Deputy PM
 

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh speaks at the event.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh on September 9 highlighted the deepening diplomatic ties between Vietnam and the Middle East and African countries, as well as progress made in their collaboration in other spheres like trade, telecommunications, labour, education and health care.

Addressing a session on economic cooperation within the conference themed “Meet ambassadors from the Middle East and Africa” in Hanoi, the official said cooperation models between Vietnam and some African nations, especially in the realm of agriculture, have been seen as those of the Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) cooperation.

He stressed Vietnam’s capacity to meet high and diverse demands of the Middle East and African countries, particularly after the country assumes the posts of the ASEAN’s rotary chair in 2020 and a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for 2020-2021.

Vietnam can work as a bridge promoting cooperation in the areas of shared concern within the ASEAN framework and join hands in addressing issues regarding regional and global peace and security, including those in the Middle East and Africa, he said.

The Southeast Asian nation and the Middle East and African countries share the desire for peace, towards the 2030 UN Agenda, and similarities in the development level, he said, adding that their economies are highly reciprocal.

The two sides boast advantages to step up their comprehensive cooperation, especially in such areas as trade, investment, energy, environment, ICT, agriculture, labour and tourism, Minh stressed.

The official urged the delegates to look into major cooperation orientations, focusing on economic collaboration which should be a lever of political ties between Vietnam and these countries.

He also suggested the ambassadors and charge d’affaires discuss in detail with Vietnamese partners, especially representatives of businesses, to identify potential and feasible areas of cooperation, saying Vietnam has strength in agriculture, fishery, electronics, farm equipment mechanics, construction materials, timber products, agricultural production and processing, ICT and young skilled labourers.

Vietnam stands ready to support the Middle East and African nations in vocational training and seeking digital solutions in service of agricultural development, he said.

Minh called on the sides to renew their cooperation mindsets and methods to adapt to requirements of the new situation, and mobilise the participation of not only the State but also the private sector, the business circle, the public and development partners outside the regions in this regard.

It is necessary to intensify connectivity and promote the role of the network of ambassadors and representatives of the Middle East and Africa in accelerating cooperation programmes and plans, he said.

Apart from bilateral channels, the two sides should enhance coordination at multilateral forums like the UN and the NAM, thus promoting connectivity between Vietnam and the African Union, as well as between the Middle East-African nations and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), he suggested.