The Vietnam – Republic of Korea consultancy and technology solution centre (VITASK) was inaugurated during a ceremony in Hanoi on December 11. 

Funded by the official development assistance, the centre is a joint project between the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade and the Korean Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Energy (MOTIE) with an aim to help Vietnamese enterprises operating in automobiles, electricity and electronics join the global value chain. 

Korean experts will offer technical support to Vietnamese businesses, provide training for engineer students, and build experimental infrastructure to review product functions. 

Minister of Industry and Trade Tran Tuan Anh wished that the RoK Government and MOTIE would continue arranging resources and supporting similar projects such as VITASK to improve Vietnamese firms’ technical capacity to meet demand of Korean enterprises in Ho Chi Minh City. 

RoK Minister of Commerce, Industry and Energy Sung Yun-mo said his country will always partner with Vietnam to operate the centre effectively, bringing high value to the two countries’ business communities. 

In the near future, the two Governments will continue offering financial support to improve the capacity of the centre’s managerial staff, towards the goal of further developing the Vietnamese industry./.

ADB launches 9 billion USD COVID-19 vaccine initiative for developing Asia

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) said on December 11 that it has launched a 9 billion USD COVID-19 vaccine initiative - the Asia Pacific Vaccine Access Facility (APVAX), offering rapid and equitable support to its developing members as they procure and deliver effective and safe coronavirus disease vaccines.

ADB President Masatsugu Asakawa said as ADB’s developing members prepare to vaccinate their people as soon as possible, they need financing to procure vaccines as well as appropriate plans and knowledge to be able to safely, equitably, and efficiently manage the vaccination process.

“APVAX will play a critical role in helping our developing members meet these challenges, overcome the pandemic, and focus on economic recovery,” he said.

It provides a comprehensive framework and resource envelope for supporting developing Asia’s vaccine access, using two complementary components. The Rapid Response Component will provide timely support for critical vaccine diagnostics, procurement of vaccines, and transporting vaccines from the place of purchase to ADB’s developing members, he added.

According to Masatsugu Asakawa, ADB financing for vaccines will be provided in close coordination with other development partners including the World Bank Group, World Health Organization (WHO), COVID-19 Vaccines Global Access Facility (COVAX), GAVI, and bilateral and multilateral partners.

ADB is also making available a 500 million USD Vaccine Import Facility to support the efforts of its developing members to secure safe and effective vaccines, as well as the goods that support distribution and inoculation.

In April, ADB approved a 20 billion USD package to support its developing members in addressing the impacts of the pandemic and streamlined some procedures to deliver quicker and more flexible assistance. ADB has committed 14.9 billion USD in loans, grants, and technical assistance, including 9.9 billion USD in quick-disbursing budget support from the COVID-19 Pandemic Response Option (CPRO) and support for the private sector.

In November, ADB announced 20.3 million USD in additional technical assistance to establish systems to enable efficient and equitable distribution of vaccines across Asia and the Pacific.

More than 14.3 million positive cases have been identified in Asia and the Pacific, causing more than 200,000 deaths. As the pandemic persists, economic growth in developing Asia is projected to contract by 0.4 percent in 2020 - the first regional gross domestic product contraction since the early 1960s.

ADB provides 600,000 grant to support Vietnam’s COVID-19 response

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has provided a 600,000 USD grant in-kind to assist the Vietnamese government in the fight against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.

The ADB commends the Vietnamese government for their quick and effective emergency response to the COVID-19 pandemic, said ADB Country Director for Vietnam Andrew Jeffries.

“Under strong leadership of the Government and with public self-consciousness, Vietnam is among few countries that have successfully contained the impact from the COVID-19 pandemic,” he said in the bank’s news release on December 11.

The grant is funded by two ADB Technical Assistance Special Funds. The first provided personal protective equipment valued at 500,000 USD to the National Lung Hospital under the Ministry of Health. The second helped upgrade equipment valued at 100,000 USD for the Public Health Emergency Operation Centre (PHEOC) under the Ministry of Health’s General Department of Preventive Medicine.

The personal protective equipment will help protect health workers from coronavirus transmission, which is essential in the prolonged fight against COVID-19. The upgraded equipment in the PHEOC will significantly improve the efficiency of the Ministry of Health’s coordinated activities in the public health emergency outbreaks.

In April this year, the ADB approved a 20 billion USD expanded assistance package to support its developing members’ COVID-19 response.

In Vietnam, the ADB has been working with other development partners to support the government’s ongoing efforts in fighting the COVID-19. Its assistance aims to provide additional resources to strengthen Vietnam’s capacity for outbreak response.

Six imported COVID-19 cases detected on December 11

Six new cases of COVID-19 were recorded in the past 24 hours, all returning from abroad, the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control announced on December 11 evening.

Of the new patients, three are Vietnamese and the rest are a Belarusian expert and his relatives. They are now under quarantine Khanh Hoa province and Da Nang city in the central region, and Hanoi.

With the new cases, the national count of COVID-19 cases now stands at 1,391, of which 693 are locally transmitted.

Among the COVID-19 cases in Vietnam, 1,237 have recovered while the fatalities remain at 35.

As for those still under treatment, 10 have tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 once, nine twice and four thrice.

A total of 20,832 people who had close contact with COVID-19 patients or arrived from pandemic-hit areas are being quarantined nationwide, with 200 at hospitals, 16,743 at concentrated facilities, and 3,889 either at home or accommodations.

Vietnamese women affirm position in UN peacekeeping missions

 

With their gentle and loving nature, female Vietnamese officers in UN Peacekeeping Missions have gained the trust and respect of the local communities in their host countries, contributing greatly to successful operations.

Lieutenant Colonel Do Thi Hang Nga was sent to the UN Peacekeeping Mission in South Sudan two years ago and was the first female Vietnamese officer to be dispatched on a mission.

Vietnam has sent three female officers to the UN Peacekeeping missions. Female Vietnamese officers account for nearly 17% of Vietnamese personnel in the missions; higher than what the UN actually recommends.

Not only do they fulfil all their duties, they also proactively contribute to the local community’s development.

Having always treated others with tenderness, female peacekeepers have gained the trust and respect of local communities. Their participation in peacekeeping missions is therefore encouraged by countries and international organisations./.

PM launches nationwide emulation movement for 2021-2025

A nationwide emulation movement with the theme “Solidarity, creativity, and emulation to build and safeguard the Fatherland” was launched for the 2021-2025 period by Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on December 10.

The PM, also the Chairman of the Central Emulation and Rewards Council, launched the drive at the 10th National Patriotic Emulation Congress, which officially opened in Hanoi on the morning of December 10.

Attended by 2,300 delegates from around the country, the congress shared the view that patriotic emulation movements and reward activities have been reformed and become more practical and effective over the last five years.

Emulation campaigns have developed intensively and extensively, creating important momentum for the successful performance of political and socio-economic development tasks in the entire country as well as at every agency, organisation, and unit. Such achievements serve as the basis for the country to take firm steps towards the goal of growing a wealthy and strong, democratic, equal, and civilised nation, according to the Government leader.

He especially highlighted the enormous contributions by forces involved in fighting COVID-19 and responding to natural disasters, adding that compatriotism and comradeship have become even stronger amid trying times.

As the global and regional situation is forecast to remain complex and unpredictable and there remain many difficulties and challenges in the country, the PM noted that this requires the entire Party, people, and army to continue enhancing solidarity and consensus, reforming strongly, showing dynamism and creativity, and exerting the utmost effort to achieve socio-economic development targets for 2021-2025 and the development strategy for 2021-2030.

He called for patriotism, self-reliance, and aspirations for a prosperous and happy country to be encouraged.

Launching the nationwide emulation movement for the next five years, the PM called for emulation in building and perfecting institutions for sustainable development in all aspects; developing science - technology and innovation; improving people’s material and spiritual lives; supporting defence, security, external affairs, and international integration; and building an incorruptible, strong, lean, efficient, and effective Party, State, and political system.

He also requested the continuation of existing emulation campaigns, including four key campaigns: “The whole nation joins in efforts to build new-style rural areas”, “The whole nation joins hands for the poor - Leaving no one behind”, “Vietnamese businesses integrate and develop”, and “Cadres, civil servants, and public employees emulate the execution of workplace norms”./.

ADMM+: ASEAN, partner countries to further solidify defence cooperation

The 7th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus (ADMM +) was held via videoconference on December 10 under the chair of Vietnam’s Minister of National Defence, Gen. Ngo Xuan Lich.

The meeting was attended by the defence ministers of ASEAN member states and eight partner countries (Russia, China, the US, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and India), along with ASEAN Secretary-General Lim Jock Hoi. Ambassadors and defence attachés of participating countries in Hanoi were also present.

In his opening remarks, Lich said that while some multilateral mechanisms in the world have encountered difficulties and challenges, defence cooperation within ASEAN and between the bloc and partners remains a bright spot.

He highlighted the military's active role in the fight against COVID-19 in each country as well as in regional cooperation, noting that in a “cohesive and responsive” spirit and by optimising modern digital platforms, the countries have maintained regular exchanges and cooperation.

2020 has been full of challenges, he said, pointing out that COVID-19 has resulted in numerous political, economic, diplomatic, trade, and investment impacts, posing substantial challenges to ASEAN and its partners.

However, he added, despite restrictions on cross-border movements, many initiatives have still been conducted to promote cooperation within ASEAN as well as between the bloc and its partners.

Participants appreciated Vietnam’s proactive and timely response to the new context and active realisation of priorities and initiatives set for 2020, when it served as Chair of ASEAN.

Vietnam has successfully organised ASEAN defence-military meetings while proposing and implementing anti-pandemic initiatives and carrying out cooperation activities within the ADMM Plus framework in a timely manner, they said.

Officials stressed that despite COVID-19, the ADMM Plus countries have continued to bolster cooperation via modern digital platforms and reinforcing ASEAN’s cohesion and proactiveness during the bloc’s adaptation to geostrategic and geopolitical shifts by strengthening defence cooperation among ASEAN members and between them and the Plus countries.

Discussing the global and regional situation, they shared the view that the region is now facing a number of challenges, both traditional and non-traditional, such as those relating to maritime security, cyber security, terrorism, trans-national crime, climate change, and epidemics, which jeopardise regional peace and stability.

They voiced support for the maintenance of peace, stability, security, safety, and freedom of navigation in the East Sea, along with the peaceful settlement of disputes and differences on the basis of international law, especially the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The countries agreed to continue bolstering defence cooperation within the regional architecture, with ASEAN at the centre, so as to build trust and boost capacity in better responding to common security threats in the region, thus helping with regional peace, stability, and development, the achievement of ASEAN Community building targets, and enhancement of the bloc’s centrality in the region and the world.

Lich echoed other officials’ assessment of the current security context and their concern about both traditional and non-traditional security challenges, agreeing that no single country can effectively respond to such challenges by itself, and that bilateral and multilateral cooperation is needed.

In terms of multilateral cooperation, the ADMM Plus continued to prove itself an effective and suitable mechanism for parties to foster substantive ties on the basis of what has been obtained over the last decade, he said.

The meeting adopted a joint statement on the strategic security vision that reflects member states’ consensus and resolve to tighten defence connections to further contribute to regional and global peace, stability, and development.

At the end of the meeting, Vietnam handed over the Chairmanship of the ADMM and ADMM Plus to Brunei, which is also Chair of ASEAN in 2021./.

Seminar talks prospects, challenges of Thu Duc city

Ho Chi Minh City must ensure transparent governance before establishing a “new city within a city” from the proposed merger of three districts, experts said at a seminar in the city on December 9.

The National Assembly’s Standing Committee on the same day passed a resolution to establish new Thu Duc city, which would include three existing districts, namely 2, 9 and Thu Duc.

At the seminar organised by the HCM City University of Law, Associate Prof. Dr. Vu Van Nhiem, chairman of the university’s council, said the establishment of the tentatively named Thu Duc city must make clear what benefits it would bring to residents, enterprises and the city and central governments.

The new Thu Duc administration must be simple and efficient, he said.

Although an urban administrative model is common in megacities around the world, there is “no legal basis” for it in Vietnam.

HCM City is the first centrally-run city in the country to implement an urban administrative model to bring into practice the “city within a city” model.

Because the new city would be equivalent to a district-level unit under the current law, HCM City must ask the Government and the National Assembly to allow higher autonomy for “the new city”, he said.

Associate Prof. Dr. Do Minh Khoi, head of the university’s Faculty of Law and State Administration’s Department of State and Law Theory, said the proposal to establish Thu Duc city was “unprecedented” in the country and would require “extensive study”.

The establishment of the city would require amendments in urban planning and construction laws, he added.

HCM City is faced with problems related to pollution, traffic congestion, and lack of affordable housing, among others. The city must resolve these problems and ensure transparent governance, he said.

Le Minh Duc, deputy head of the Legal Department of the HCM City People’s Council, said the new city could face challenges such as social crimes and insecurity and other problems related to administrative papers for citizens. Land speculation causing a surge in land prices and illegal construction would also be critical issues.

He pointed out that the city’s current resources were still insufficient to build the “innovation district” in the city’s eastern part. “An appropriate roadmap is needed to ensure the establishment of this new city.”

Huynh Khac Diep, Chief of the HCM City Party Committee’s Office, said the People’s Committee is writing a draft proposal on enhancing the power of the new city government and creating better conditions for it to develop strongly.

Lawmakers last month approved a resolution to eliminate People’s Councils at district and ward levels in the city. The newly passed resolution stipulates that administrative organisation at the municipal level would comprise a People’s Committee and People’s Council. However, there would only be People’s Committees at the district and ward levels.

The organisation of other administrative units in the city is subject to the Law on Local Government Organisation.

The resolution takes effect next year and the implementation of new urban administrative models in HCM City will begin from July 2021.

The eastern districts of 2, 9, and Thu Duc would be merged into one administrative unit.

To build the new city, HCM City authorities need to seek advice from foreign experts and investors, including technology, finance and real estate companies, experts have said.

The city should study the experiences of major cities in other countries, including the Pudong area in Shanghai (China) and Gangnam in Seoul (the Republic of Korea), and propose policies for a creative ecosystem and improved competitiveness, they said.

The city’s administration has established a steering committee led by Nguyen Thanh Phong, Chairman of the city People’s Committee, which will develop a master plan for the development of the new city.

The master plan includes strategies for a knowledge-based economy that promotes a highly skilled workforce.

The committee plans to develop a centralised urban database with data about land use, transportation, canals and other works in the three districts.

Experts have said the new Thu Duc city should be designed to attract more investment while promoting globalisation and maintaining local culture, appealing to a talented workforce from around the world.

Thu Duc city would be spread over 211sq.km and be home to more than one million people./.

Young physiologists meet in Quy Nhon city

As many as 290 leading professors, young scientists and businesses operating in biology are gathering in Quy Nhon city, the central coastal province of Binh Dinh, for the Third Rencontres de Quy Nhon - Biology Conference 2020.

This annual event, from December 11-13, is part of the scientific activities of the 16th Rencontres du Vietnam.

During this meeting, the participants will look at more than 200 reports in such spheres as medicine-biology-pharmacy, bio-chemistry, and plant biology, agriculture and environment.

The event looks towards multi-sectoral cooperation in scientific research and the formation of a network of scientists to exchange research experience, and build partnerships in order to get the most updated scientific knowledge.

The highlight of this year’s event is the formation of the Scientific Advisory Committee that brings together 11 leading professors from different research and academic institutions across Vietnam.

Founded in 1993 by Jean Tran Thanh Van, Rencontres du Vietnam, a non-profit organisation and an official partner of UNESCO, aims to step up international exchanges between Vietnam and the international community, particularly in the areas of science and education.

It is also set to promote the integration of Vietnamese scientists into the international scientific community, as well as the passion for science among the youngsters./.

Seminar reviews HIV-infected women’s access to loans

A seminar took place in Hanoi on December 11 to collect feedback on a report on HIV-infected women’s access to the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies (VBSP)’s loans.

Speaking at the event, Country Representative of the UN Women in Vietnam Elisa Feznandes said the event aims to seek measures to improve HIV-infected women’s access to loans and legal assistance, as well as their livelihoods.

She added that households affected by HIV easily fall into poverty due to higher antiretroviral (ARV) cost, thereby affecting their access to education and other opportunities.

According to her, HIV-infected women not only need ARV drug and medical services but also social support and livelihood guarantee.

Deputy Director of the VBSP’s Credit Department for students and other social beneficiaries said the loan programme for HIV patients and their families is piloted in 15 cities and provinces during 2016-2020. The bank has so far offered loans worth 14 billion VND (605,000 USD) to them.

However, the Ministry of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs reported that only 84 HIV patients and families received loans, or 16.7 percent of eligible ones in accordance with the Prime Minister’s Decision No.29/2014/QD-TTg.

Participants suggested enhancing authorities’ attention to HIV prevention and control, supporting livelihoods for HIV patients, and improving the role of socio-political organisations in helping borrowers use loans effectively./.

Ample room for Vietnam, Canada to boost ties: Former Quebec premier

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest (Photo: The Canadian Press)

Former Quebec premier Jean Charest has suggested Vietnam and Canada cooperate in sectors such as infrastructure, health care, and medical education.

In an interview with the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), Charest said there is ample room for the two countries to step up trade ties, adding that their exports are reciprocal.

Though Vietnam is Canada’s largest trade partner in ASEAN, two-way trade accounts for just 0.7 percent of the North American country’s total, he said.

The two countries have yet to bring into full play the advantages brought about by the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), he pointed out.

With Canada’s implementation of the updated version of the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), Vietnamese investors in Canada will have opportunities to access both the US and Mexico.

Meanwhile, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), signed by Vietnam and 14 other countries in mid-November, offers a new view on investment in Vietnam, Charest said.

Canada attaches importance to growing ties with Vietnam, a centre of FTAs in the Asia-Pacific, he said, adding that it can act as a bridge for Canadian goods and services to access the 660 million-strong ASEAN market.

Vietnam should be considered as an investment destination by Canadian companies wishing to penetrate into Asia, he stressed./.

Vietnamese Embassy in Singapore launches Video ASEAN Gala 2020

The Vietnamese Embassy in Singapore, in conjunction with other ASEAN missions in the city state, has launched the video ASEAN Gala 2020 within the framework of the ASEAN Gala Night 2020, an annual event aimed at promoting ASEAN culture and strengthening solidarity in the region.

Vietnamese Ambassador Tao Thi Thanh Huong affirmed that the bloc has posted major achievements under the leadership of Vietnam as the Chair of ASEAN in 2020, especially in the fight against COVID-19, maintaining supply chains to gradually recover the regional economy, and strengthening ASEAN’s central role in resolving regional and global issues.

Addressing the event, Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishman applauded ASEAN member countries’ diplomatic missions for their coordination in organising the programme.

He congratulated Vietnam on its adaptive efforts and coordination in ensuring the implementation of the ASEAN action plan and priorities in the context of the complex development of the COVID-19 pandemic in the region.

Balakrishman affirmed that the signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), the issuance of the ASEAN Declaration on the ASEAN Travel Corridor Arrangement Framework, the launch of the ASEAN COVID-19 Response Fund and the ASEAN Regional Reserve of Medical Supplies, and the approval of the ASEAN Comprehensive Recovery Framework not only demonstrate the effectiveness of close cooperation within ASEAN and between ASEAN and its partner countries, but also serve as a foundation for ASEAN to better recover from the COVID-19 crisis.

He underlined the need to maintain intra-bloc solidarity and the central role played by the group in promoting cohesion and responsiveness in order to cope with new and unavoidable crises in the future.

Video ASEAN Gala 2020 brings to viewers a portrait of the diverse culture in ASEAN member countries while reflecting the spirit of intra-bloc solidarity in adapting to the most extreme difficulties and challenges.

The video was published on websites and official social networks by the Singaporean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and ASEAN member countries’ embassies in Singapore from December 8.

Support policies needed to sustain poverty alleviation: PM

Policies to support the impoverished, particularly children, the elderly and ethnic minority people, should be completed to ensure that no one is left behind, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has said.

Chairing a national teleconference on December 11 to review the poverty reduction work during the 2016-2020 period, the PM said that although Vietnam has been a global model in the task over the last three decades, poverty alleviation is still not sustainable, with a high rate of poor households and an increasing gap between the rich and poor.

The country’s achievements in poverty reduction have now been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, he said, voicing a concern that it may push half a billion more people around the world into poverty while reversing a decade of progress on poverty reduction.

Natural disasters, urbanisation, and free immigration have also posed significant challenges for the impoverished, ethnic minority people, and migrants, PM Phuc said.

The PM suggested the cementing of inclusive poverty reduction goals and approving investment in the national target programme on sustainable poverty reduction and social welfare by 2030 and vision to 2045.

Poverty alleviation and social welfare models that are resilient to diseases and climate change should be developed, he said, adding that both domestic and foreign resources must be mobilised to provide further support to the poor.

He also discussed socio-economic infrastructure development in remote and difficult localities, and investment in education and vocational training, emphasising that they are of utmost importance to sustainably reducing poverty.

PM Phuc also called on localities to build their own poverty reduction models in a more creative manner, and launch emulation campaigns to realise sustainable poverty reduction goals in a more practical fashion.

Local authorities must understand the specific circumstances of the poor in order to identify and adopt suitable support measures, he said, suggesting that the Vietnam Fatherland Front and socio-economic organisations at all levels engage businesses, organisations, and individuals in poverty reduction efforts.

He affirmed the Party and the State’s consistent policy on socio-economic development, with priority given to poverty alleviation and social welfare.

Despite the formidable challenges, the National Assembly and the Government have doubled resources for the poverty reduction work, with 21 percent of the State budget allocated to social welfare - the highest in ASEAN.

Vietnam has helped some 13 million people affected by COVID-19 with State budget funds, he said.

The PM hailed poverty reduction efforts, with the poverty rate nationwide expected to fall to less than 3 percent by the end of this year, making Vietnam the first country to achieve the UN millennium goal on poverty alleviation.

The achievement is attributable to the efforts of the political system, party committees, and authorities at all levels, he said, expressing his hope that the country as a whole will further its efforts in poverty reduction./.

ADMM, ADMM Plus – a success: Singaporean defence minister

Singaporean Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen congratulated Vietnam, the ASEAN 2020 Chair, on successful organisation of the 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM), and the 7th ADMM Plus.

Despite difficulties caused by complicated developments of the COVID-19 pandemic, Vietnam did its utmost and successfully held activities within the framework of the meetings, he told the Vietnam News Agency’s correspondents in Singapore on December 10.

The successful organisation of ADMM and ADMM Plus reflected ASEAN and its dialogue partners’ commitments to strengthen security and defence cooperation for regional peace and stability, and is a vivid illustration for Vietnam’s good leadership role.

Several important outcomes were attained at the meetings, particularly in the field of security threat response with the “Our Eyes” initiative which promote information sharing in anti-terrorism, he stressed.

He expressed his delight over the consensus among ASEAN member states and their partners in settling maritime tensions in the East Sea, saying they agreed that competent sides should accelerate negotiations for a Code of Conduct (COC) in the East Sea, and the COC must be based on international law, including the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

Regarding the role of the ADMM Plus after ten years of operation, Ng Eng Hen said it has become an important security mechanism in the region, and along with eight partner nations, namely Australia, China, India, Japan, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Russia and the US, many other nations have expressed their interest to engage in this mechanism./.

Vietnam, China co-chair 18th East Asia Forum

Vietnam and China co-chaired the 18th East Asia Forum which was held via video conference on December 10 under the theme of “Strengthening the ASEAN Plus Three Cooperation for Economic and Financial Resilience in the face of Emerging Challenges”.

Attending the event were high-ranking officials, prestigious scholars and experts, and representatives of businesses from 10 ASEAN Member States and China, Japan and the Republic of Korea, and guests from regional and international organisations.

In his opening remarks, Deputy Foreign Minister Nguyen Quoc Dung, who head of the ASEAN SOM of Vietnam, said that the ASEAN Plus Three cooperation, established in 1997 amidst the regional financial crisis, has advantage of actively responding to challenges, notably the SARS 2003, the economic-financial crisis 2008, and the COVID-19 pandemic.

He expressed his hope that the forum will set forth orientations and measures to effectively carry out the Declaration of ASEAN Plus Three leaders on strengthening cooperation for economic and financial resilience in the face of emerging challenges, which was initiated by Vietnam and adopted at the recent 23rd ASEAN Plus Three Summit.

China’s Deputy Foreign Minister Luo Zhaohui affirmed the importance of collaboration in maintaining open, safe and stable supply chains; boosting regional integration; and responding to emerging non-traditional security challenges and diseases.

He proposed exploiting potential of emerging markets, stepping up exchanges on financial policies to build a regional financial safety network, make the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) agreement soon become effective, and speed up the application of 5G technology, digital transformation and e-commerce development.

At the forum, senior officials and experts made many recommendations, such as setting up a regional financial cooperation centre to support ASEAN countries, supporting enterprises, especially those with small and medium sizes, through financial assistance packages, investing in developing high-quality infrastructure, and promoting the use of domestic currencies in trade, investment and financial transactions among ASEAN Plus Three countries.

They also shared experience in expanding collaboration in financial technology, stepping up digital payments and e-commerce, increase the use of renewable energies to increase the sustainability of economies.

Many stressed the need to continue narrowing development gap, boosting sustainable development in sub-regions to speed up the region’s comprehensive and sustainable economic development efforts.

To deal with economic and financial shocks from outside promptly and effectively, they agreed to improve the macro-economic monitoring system and early warning capacity, intensify economic and financial policy coordination, and consolidate such regional mechanisms as the Chiang Mai Initiative Multilateralisation (CMIM), the ASEAN+3 Macroeconomic Research Office (AMRO) and the Asian Bond Markets Initiative (ABMI)./.

ASEAN defence ministers gather at 14th meeting

 

 

The 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM-14) took place via videoconference on December 9 under the chair of the Vietnamese Minister of National Defence, Gen. Ngo Xuan Lich.
 
Addressing the event, Defence Minister Ngo Xuan Lich said although defence ministries and militaries are among core forces in governments’ common efforts to combat COVID-19, ASEAN countries have still maintained defence ties by creatively using digital platforms to serve communications and online meetings.

On the basis of ASEAN defence ministers’ statement on defence cooperation against disease outbreaks issued in February, they have enhanced anti-COVID-19 partnership via sharing information and experience, providing medical supplies, working together to control cross-border movement and develop test kits and vaccines, and successfully organising an online joint drill on COVID-19 prevention and control among their military medical forces in May, he added.

During the ADMM-14, participants considered defence cooperation initiatives, the ADMM work plan for 2020-2022, and especially, the ASEAN defence ministers’ joint statement on defence cooperation for a cohesive and responsive ASEAN./.

10th National Patriotic Emulation Congress opens

The 10th National Patriotic Emulation Congress took place at the National Convention Centre in Hanoi on December 10.

The event saw the presence of leaders from the Party, State, National Assembly, Government, and the Central Emulation and Rewards Council, and over 2,000 delegates.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, in his remarks at the event, highlighted the significance of the event, saying that Vietnam’s position and prestige are results of the emulation movements.

He stressed that the emulation movements need to set practical and specific objectives, adding attention should be paid to evaluating, rewarding, promptly discovering, fostering and replicating outstanding examples.

The leader also underlined Vietnam’s success in the fight against COVID-19, saying that amid difficulties posed by the pandemic, its economy still maintains positive growth, while the disease is basically kept under control, and social security guaranteed.

Vice President Dang Thi Ngoc Thinh, Deputy Chairwoman of the Central Emulation and Rewards Council, said the patriotic emulation movements and commendation work have recorded innovations, creativity and efficiency over the last five years, importantly contributing to the national defence and construction.

Emulation movements across the fields launched by the Prime Minister have become the core of the national emulation movement, and been responded by all levels, sectors, localities and the people.

The commendation work has ensured accuracy, timeliness, publicity, transparency, towards small collectives and individuals in remote and isolated areas, she added.

On the occasion, outstanding collectives and individuals in emulation movements in the 2016-2020 were honoured for their achievements and great contributions to the society’s development./.

Vietnam welcomes UNITAD’s investigation achievements despite COVID-19

Counsellor Minister and Deputy Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the UN Nguyen Phuong Tra hailed recent investigation progress and outcomes obtained by the UN Investigative Team to Promote Accountability for Crimes Committed by Daesh (UNITAD) despite COVID-19-related difficulties at an UN Security Council (UNSC) meeting held on December 10.

At the virtual meeting that discussed an UNITAD report on its operation in the past six months, the Vietnamese Ambassador lauded constructive cooperation between UNITAD and the Iraqi government.

Expressing her concern over attacks by Daesh or the proclaimed Islamic State (IS) targeting civilians and foreign representative offices in Iraq, Tra requested the team continue focusing on its strategic priorities; strengthening cooperation with the Iraqi government, regional and local authorities and religious leaders; and applying all procedures and measures on the protection of victims and witnesses.

Vietnam calls for the international community’s increasing support toward the UNITAD in helping the team carry out its mission in line with international law, UNSC resolutions and principles of the UN Charter, including those on respecting Iraq’s territorial sovereignty, integrity, and unity, she said.

Delivering a report at the meeting, Karim Khan, UN Special Adviser and Head of the UNITAD, highlighted important steps in collecting new sources of evidence on the IS crimes, particularly targeting children and women, as well as in collaborating with the Iraqi government, including the training of investigation skills for Iraqi judges.

Lauding such progresses, many participating member states pledged their further commitments to supporting UNITAD’s operation based on UNSC resolutions and in line with the Iraqi law.

Established in September 2017, UNITAD began operations in August, 2018. Currently, it has about 130 experts, investigators, security staff and others./.

More Vietnamese citizens brought home from Australia, New Zealand

More than 340 Vietnamese citizens were flown home from Australia and New Zealand on December 9 on a Vietnam Airline flight.

The flight was arranged by the Vietnamese authorities, the Vietnamese representative offices in Australia and New Zealand, the national flag carrier, and authorities in the host nations.

Passengers on board include the elderly, children under 18 years old, labourers with expired contracts and people in extremely difficult circumstances.

To prevent the spread of COVID-19, disease prevention measures were strictly carried out during the flight. Upon landing at Tan Son Nhat International Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, the flight crew and all passengers were given health check-ups and quarantined.

In October, competent authorities joined hands to bring home 350 Vietnamese citizens in Australia and New Zealand./.

Patriotic emulation movement greatly contributes to country’s successes: Top leader

Party General Secretary and State President Nguyen Phu Trong on December 10 highlighted the contributions of the patriotic emulation movement to the socio-economic achievements of the country over the past years.

Addressing the ongoing 10th National Patriotic Emulation Congress held in Hanoi, the top leader said that the success in the national defence and construction over the past 70 years has proved the correctness and creativeness of the Ho Chi Minh ideology and the Party’s orientations on patriotic emulation.

Throughout the history of national construction and development, under leadership of the Party, the patriotic emulation movement has been developing strongly, intensively and extensively, he said.

The movement has encouraged people across the nation to show patriotism by overcoming difficulties and challenges to make great achievements of historical significance in the renewal cause as well as national construction and defence, said the leader.

Reviewing the important and comprehensive attainments of the country over the years, he stressed that the nation has never seen the realm, strength, international position and prestige as it is today.

He also spoke highly of the outcomes of the patriotic emulation movement and awarding activities over the past five years.

On the other hand, he also pointed out a number of shortcomings in the field, noting that many effective models have yet to be discovered, developed and multiplied.

The leader expressed his hope that in the future, the movement will show stronger performance in encouraging ministries, sectors, agencies, localities and people nationwide to weather difficulties and challenges, optimising opportunities brought by the Fourth Industrial Revolution to continue boosting the growth of the nation and completing all targets and tasks set in the socio-economic development plan for the 2021-2025 period.

He underscored that the movements should give practical and detail goals in association with the implementation of political and socio-economic development missions of each ministry, sector, agency and locality/.

Regional head elections held in Indonesia

More than 100 million voters in Indonesia were expected to head to the polling stations on December 9 to cast their vote in the simultaneous regional head elections (pilkada) in 270 regions comprising nine provinces, 224 districts and 37 cities.

Earlier, the Indonesian government announced that December 9 would be a public holiday and vote count is projected to wrap up on December 20.

2020 pilkada will decide the results of the presidential election in the next four years.

As the COVID-19 pandemic spurred concern over the spike of new cases, the Indonesian government in June decided to postpone the election date to December 9.

The country’s General Election Commission (KPU) has introduced health regulations for a total of 298,939 polling stations across the country. A separate voting location will be zoned off for voters whose body temperature is higher than 37.3 degree Celsius.

As of December 8, Indonesia had reported 586,842 COVID-19 infections, with a death toll of 18,000. At least four candidates died of COVID-19 and 60 others tested positive with the SARS-CoV-2 that causes the disease.

On the threshold of the election, thousands of poll workers were found to contract the virus./.

Vietnam promotes women’s role in building peace: conference

International delegates lauded Vietnam’s contributions to affirming women’s roles in building and sustaining peace while attending the International Conference on Women, Peace and Security held by the Foreign Ministry in partnership with the United Nations on December 7-9.

United Nations (UN) Under-Secretary-General and Executive Director of UN Women Phumzile Mlombo-Ngcuka spoke highly of Vietnam’s contributions to promoting the adoption of UN Security Council’s Resolution 1889 on women’s role in post conflicts when the country played the role of a non-permanent member of the UNSC during 2008-2009.

Meanwhile, UN Resident Coordinator for Vietnam Kamal Malhotra said that the conference is a wonderful opportunity for countries to enhance their commitments to improve the roles of women.

He also appreciated Vietnam’s strong support for the UN’s agenda on women, peace and security, expressing his belief that the country will keep its leading role in the agenda.

At the closing ceremony, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Hoai Trung said the conference affirmed determination of member states to realise the four pillars set in UN’s agenda on women, peace and security, including ensuring women’s full and equal participation in decision making, integrating gender perspective into women’s participation in settling the roots of conflicts, promoting women and girl children’s rights, and enhancing women’s roles in post-conflict relief and rescue work.

A wide range of initiatives and recommendations were raised at the conference, Trung said, adding Vietnam’s proposal “Hanoi Action Commitment” detailing activities to strengthen women’s participation in peace progress and women’s empowerment in various sectors receive enthusiastic response from 11 nations, namely Estonia, Finland, Mexico, Malaysia, Laos, New Zealand, Norway, the UK, Sweden, Germany and Myanmar.

The document will be introduced to other UN members in the time ahead before being sent to the President of the UN General Assembly and the UNSC, he added.

Successful organisation of the conference is significant since it reiterated Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralism, diversification and international integration, and that Vietnam is a trustworthy and responsible member in the international community, he stressed.

The conference, alongside with Vietnam’s contribution in the role as the ASEAN Chair 2020 and a non-permanent member of the UNSC during 2020-2021, continued to affirm the Vietnamese Party and State’s policies to promote gender equality and improve women’s position./.

Soil washing effective for dioxin contaminated land

 

The soil washing technology has proved to be effective in treating dioxin-contaminated soil at Bien Hoa Airport in the southern province of Dong Nai, experts said at a seminar held in Hanoi on December 8.
 
The technology was trialed by the Centre for Technology Environmental Treatment’s Chemical Command under the Ministry of Defence and Japan’s Shimizu Corporation during 2019-2020.

As soil washing is low-cost and imposes little environmental burden compared to thermal treatment, experts said it should be considered to be applied further in the time ahead, they said.

The area surrounding Bien Hoa airport contains high levels of the chemical and is considered one of the country’s dioxin hotspots. According to assessments from Vietnam and the US, some 500,000 cu.m of dioxin-contaminated land in the airport need to be treated, requiring a large amount of capital and technology./.

World Bank helps Indonesia reduce carbon emissions

The World Bank and Indonesia’ environment and forestry ministry have signed a landmark agreement on Forest Carbon Partnership Facility (FCPF) worth 110 million USD.

The move aims to support the Southeast Asian country’s efforts to lower carbon emissions due to deforestation and forest degradation between now and 2025.

The FCPF said Indonesia will receive results-based payments for reducing 22 million tons of carbon emissions in a bid to realise the national target on climate and environment.

According to Environment and Forestry Ministry Secretary General Bambang Hendroyono, the agreement aims at reducing forest degradation across 12.7 million hectares of land, and protecting biodiversity.

Besides, it will support to improve land governance and local livelihoods, while safeguarding habitats of vulnerable and endangered species by improving forest licensing, increasing the number of small-scale plantations, and promoting community-based planning.

World bank Country Director for Indonesia and Timor-Leste Saty Kahkonen said Indonesia has committed to reducing up to 41 percent of greenhouse gas emissions with international support by 2030, as well as promoting sustainable development in its plan.

The agreement will provide unprecedented support to achieve these ambitious goals, she added.

Last year, the Indonesian government approved to fund 2.1 trillion IDR (148.94 million USD) for the freshly-established Environmental Fund Management Agency. The money will be used for activities in forestry, energy and mineral resources, carbon trading, environmental services, industry, transportation, agriculture, marine and fisheries.

The government pledged to cut 29 percent of greenhouse emissions with its own efforts, and 41 percent with international support under the Paris Agreement on climate change./.

Singapore, Thailand to enable cross-border payments using only mobile numbers ​

From mid-2021, users of Singapore's PayNow and Thailand's equivalent PromptPay will be able to send money instantly and securely across the two countries with their mobile phone numbers at competitive rates, according to Ravi Menon, managing director of the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS).

This linkage between two countries' national faster payment systems will be the first of its kind in the world, noted Menon earlier this week.

Kickstarted by MAS and the Bank of Thailand three years ago, the service will begin with a small group of banks on both sides. Participation will be scaled up to include more banks and non-bank providers over time, he said. MAS is also keen to partner other central banks in the region to expand the linkage across Southeast Asia, he added.

This is part of MAS's efforts to make cross-border remittances cheaper and faster, in order to extend the benefits of a digital economy to a wider range of users, he said.

Singapore's central bank is also seeking to make cross-border payments and settlements – one of the biggest painpoints for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) – quicker and more affordable.

MAS had embarked on Project Ubin five years ago to explore the use of blockchain, with the final phase of experimentation completed in July this year where a blockchain-based prototype for multi-currency settlement was successfully tested./.

Online conference spotlights President Ho Chi Minh’s thoughts

Theoretical and practical values of President Ho Chi Minh’s thoughts regarding the combination of patriotism and internationalism over the past 100 years were highlighted at an online conference jointly held by the Vietnamese Party Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations and authorities of Russia’s Saint Petersburg city on December 11.

Such values have continued to light up Vietnam’s reform and international integration, heard the conference.

They have also affirmed the President’s great contributions to international communists’ and workers’ movements, according to speeches delivered at the event.

The conference was to pay tribute to President Ho who laid the foundation for the relations between Vietnam and the former Soviet Union and present Russia, and came as part of the activities marking the 70th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties.

Investigation Security Agency awarded Hero of People’s Armed Forces title

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc presented the title of Hero of People’s Armed Forces to the Ministry of Public Security’s Investigation Security Agency during a ceremony in Hanoi on December 11.

The agency is tasked with investigating serious economic, corruption, and smuggling cases of public concern, confiscating trillions of VND for the State budget.

The PM, who is also Chairman of the Central Council for Emulation and Commendation, congratulated officials and officers of the agency on receiving the distinction from the Party and State.

He lauded it for cracking down on national security violations and other crimes, contributing to protecting national security, and maintaining social safety and order and national development over the last seven decades.

The leader asked it to work closely with units inside and outside of the public security sector, especially central and local legal agencies, contributing to improving the efficiency of investigation activities.

The PM called for carrying out breakthrough measures to build a contingent of strong security forces in terms of politics, ideology, and personnel.

It was urged to promptly grasp the Party and State’s stance in each circumstance and on each subject, to ensure that investigations are in line with law.

Each official and officer at the agency must continuously follow President Ho Chi Minh’s six teachings, have strong political mettle and professional virtue, and creatively apply Party and State laws and policies in their work, he said./.

Vietnamese, Japanese commercial lawyers boost ties

The Vietnam Bar Federation (VBF) held a seminar in Hanoi on December 11 to promote cooperation between Vietnamese and Japanese commercial lawyers to support trade and improve the supply of legal services for bar associations.

VBF Chairman Do Ngoc Thinh said the seminar is expected to help improve the business environment and attract more Japanese FDI to Vietnam.

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Yamada Takio said Japan treasures its friendship with Vietnam, as evidenced by Japanese Prime Minister Suga Yoshihide selecting the country as the destination of his first overseas trip after taking office.

He hailed Vietnam for successfully controlling COVID-19 and maintaining economic growth. Apart from energy and transportation infrastructure, Japanese enterprises are also interested in law building and administrative reform when choosing Vietnam as a promising destination.

Vietnam has perfected a number of important laws such as the Civil Code and the Code of Civil Procedures, which helps Japanese investors feel secure when investing in the country.

Deputy Minister of Justice Nguyen Khanh Ngoc said that since Vietnam and Japan established diplomatic ties in 1973, bilateral relations have grown comprehensively in almost areas, from trade and investment to socio-culture and education, with lawyers playing a contributing role.

Figures show that nearly 40 lawyers and 11 bar associations from Japan are working in Vietnam, which are impressive figures, he said, adding that Vietnamese and Japanese lawyers play increasingly important roles as ties between the two countries have deepened.

He hoped that the two countries’ lawyers would seriously abide by the law and codes of conduct, and join social activities.

Delegates also discussed the major contents in the revised Corporate Law and the revised Investment Law, and the noteworthy issues for foreign investors./.

Initiative launched to drive down tiger product consumption

Wildlife trade monitor network TRAFFIC on December 10 launched a three-year social marketing programme with an aim to reduce demand for tiger products in Vietnam.

The project will draw upon the latest in behavioural science to discourage the medicinal use of tiger products in the country, which is recognised as a main destination market for the illegal tiger trade.

“Vietnam has the power to make a huge impact on the future of tigers. This project will not only work to discourage tiger product consumption, but it will also seek to facilitate the country’s leadership on global conservation issues,” said Sarah Ferguson, Director of TRAFFIC’s Vietnam office.

The initiative will work to reduce individual consumption demand through a multimedia behaviour change campaign while calling on government partners, such as the National Assembly, Ministry of Health and the Central Party Committee of Communication and Education, to strengthen wildlife protection policies. Partners within the traditional medicine sector will be key project allies as they mobilise their peers against the prescription of illegal wildlife products and promote legal alternatives.

“We support this project as a positive effort to protect the reputation, credibility, and sustainable future development of the traditional medicine sector in Vietnam,” said Dr. Tran Xuan Nguyen, Head of Medical Professionalism Department of the Vietnam Oriental Traditional Medicine Association.

Despite legal protections for tigers, demand for tiger products in Vietnam remains strong, with a TRAFFIC consumer survey from 2017 finding that 6 percent of Vietnam’s urban population had used tiger products and that 64 percent of them would recommend tiger products to others. Tiger bone glue was revealed to be the most popular tiger product and will be the focus of the project.

The project is being funded by the UK government through the Illegal Wildlife Trade Challenge Fund./.

Vietnam highlights responsibility of states in preventing crime

Vietnam highlighted the leading responsibility of nations in ensuring compliance with international humanitarian law, preventing and punishing serious criminals such as war crime, crime against humanity and crime of aggression, a Vietnamese diplomat has said.

Addressing a virtual meeting of the United Nations Security Council on the Sudan situation on December 10, Ambassador Pham Hai Anh, deputy head of the Vietnamese permanent mission to the UN, welcomed recent positive developments in Sudan, including the signing of the Juba Peace Agreement on October 3, 2020.

Vietnam hoped that the UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan (UNITAMS) will support the transition and development process in Sudan, and acknowledged the difficult situation in Sudan, including economic and humanitarian challenges, he said.

The diplomat expressed his concern about increasing violence among communities in Sudan that killed numerous civilians, including women and children, emphasizing that the prosecution of violations of international humanitarian law, and serious criminal crimes should be conducted in accordance with basic principles of international law, including respect for national independence and sovereignty.

Representatives from UNSC member nations also applauded the signing of the Juba Peace Agreement between the Sudan government and two major armed groups in Darfur - the Sudan Revolutionary Front and the Sudan Liberation Front - Minni Minawi, while urging the signatories to fully implement the agreement.

They expressed their hope that UNITAMS will be deployed soon to support the transition process in the country.

According to the Juba Peace Agreement, the transition process in the African country will take place within 39 months from October. UNITAMS, which was established under Resolution 2524 of the UN Security Council, will support Sudan in this process, as well as help the country improve its State governance capacity, mobilize resources for the economy and development as well as implement humanitarian assistance activities.

ASEAN, Japan join hands to enhance cyber security

Defence ministers of ASEAN and Japan on December 10 agreed to embark on a project to strengthen cyber security as the world is increasingly relying on online communication channels since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out.

An agreement on the project was signed on the sidelines of the virtual ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus that attracted the leading defence officials of 10 ASEAN member states and eight partner countries, including the US, China and Japan.

Speaking at the event, Japanese Defence Minister Kishi Nobuo said the new project will help enhance connectivity among defence officials and strengthen Japan and ASEAN’s capacity of coping with cyber incidents in the face of rising security threats.

Accordingly, regional defence officials will join annual debates guided by Japanese cyber security experts, with the first ones slated for next year focusing on real-life training.

A Japanese defence official said Japan supports ASEAN’s central role, solidarity and flexibility in cyber security./.

EU is a top partner of Vietnam in many fields: PM

The European Union (EU) is a top partner of Vietnam in many fields and the relationship with the bloc holds a strategic and important position in the country’s foreign policy, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said while receiving Ambassador Giorgio Aliberti, Head of the EU Delegation to Vietnam, in Hanoi on December 10.

At the reception for the diplomat on the occasion of the 30th founding anniversary of Vietnam – EU ties, the PM highlighted the growing bilateral trade amid global difficulties, saying their mutual understanding has led to effective cooperation.

Aliberti said the 30th anniversary marks an important milestone in the bilateral collaboration, which, he hoped, to be strengthened in many spheres in the time to come.

Noting that the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has created favorable conditions for the two sides to boost their partnership, he suggested the two sides push bilateral trade and Vietnam increase agro-aquatic product export to the EU market.

The diplomat took the occasion to request the Vietnamese Government tackle obstacles to facilitate European enterprises’ operations in Vietnam.

Agreeing with the guest's opinions, PM Phuc said the EVFTA, after coming into force for a short time, has brought immediate effects to both sides, particularly in helping their economic recovery.

As Chair of ASEAN 2020, Vietnam is pleased with the establishment of the ASEAN-EU strategic partnership and is confident of effective cooperation between the two sides in the future, the PM said.

He lauded the EU’s positive voice in support of respecting international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) in the East Sea.

The Government leader thanked the EU for helping Vietnam fulfill its mission as ASEAN Chair this year and wished for further assistance to Vietnam as the country is holding a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for 2020-2021.

PM Phuc also expressed his gratitude to the bloc’s humanitarian aid worth 60,000 EUR for Vietnam to address drought and saline intrusion in the Mekong Delta as well as support to overcome the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aliberti said EU leaders always treasure and highly evaluate achievements in the EU-Vietnam relationship./.

IFRC Secretary General lauds cooperation with Vietnam

Jagan Chapagain, Secretary General of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), has spoken highly of the collaboration between his organisation and Vietnam at a recent meeting with Ambassador Le Thi Tuyet Mai, head of the Vietnamese Permanent Mission to the UN, World Trade Organisation and other international organisations in Geneva, Switzerland.

Chapagain lauded the active engagement of the Vietnam Red Cross Society (VRCS) in mobilising resources and support from international partners, including the IFRC, for COVID-19 prevention and control as well as for the alleviation of natural disaster aftermath.

The IFRC has, in turn, actively called for international donors’ assistance for Vietnam, he said.

He took the occasion to thank the Vietnamese Government for backing the IFRC’s cooperation with the VRCS and with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), expressing his hope for further support in the time to come.

The official pledged to reinforce the IFRC -VRCS collaboration and proposed the Vietnamese Government to facilitate the IFRC in expanding its operations in Vietnam.

For her part, Mai thanked the organisation for its assistance to Vietnam, particularly in COVID-19 control and for flood victims in central Vietnam.

The diplomat affirmed that the Vietnamese Government supports joint work between the IFRC and VRCS as well as between the IFRC and ASEAN.

Welcoming the IFRC’s plan to expand activities in Vietnam, Mai said she will work with relevant agencies to speed up related procedures.

She requested the organisation to continue its mobilisation of technical support and resources from its partners to help Vietnamese people via the VRCS, particularly in risk management, natural disasters and climate change response, injury prevention, first aid, and evacuation.

Mai also asked for the IFRC’s support for the VRCS’s capacity building and participation in regional and international cooperation.

Founded in 1919, the Geneva-based IFRC now consists of 192 national red cross and red crescent societies./.

Seminar discusses corruption risks in road transport in Vietnam

The Government Inspectorate of Vietnam together with the UN Development Fund (UNDP) organised a scientific seminar in Hanoi on December 9 to assess corruption risks in the country’s road transport sector.

Held as part of the UNDP’s project on promoting a fair business environment in ASEAN and sponsored by the UK Prosperity Fund, the seminar reviewed the current situation and anti-corruption regulations, while collecting feedback on draft research on corruption in road transport.

Opening the seminar, Tran Van Truong, Deputy Chief Inspector at the Ministry of Transport, said the Government has directed the implementation of several measures to improve the country’s business climate, particularly in road transport, creating positive change.

The disbursement of investment in transport projects, however, is low, partly due to corruption, which raises costs, restricts investment opportunities, and increases social inequality, he added.

Transport is a key sector in Vietnam’s economic development and of importance to domestic and foreign investors, the official said, noting that it also faces a high risk of corruption.

Diana Torres, UNDP Assistant Resident Representative in Vietnam, spoke about its technical assistance for the building of Vietnam’s revised Anti-Corruption Law, which took effect on July 1 last year.

She said that to promote an initiative on integrity between businesses and the Government in the country, the UNDP has joined the Inspectorate and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) to carry out a host of activities, including seminars and forums that enabled firms to make recommendations to amend the law for better administrative procedures.

Introducing research on assessing corruption risks in Vietnam’s road transport sector, UNDP expert Nguyen Viet Hoang attributed the risks to the sector’s complexities, overlapping regulations, and lack of transparency and publicity in administrative procedures, among other reasons.

He recommended that the Vietnamese Government and the Transport Ministry continue completing the legal framework on road traffic, improve State management of the sector, and overhaul related procedures for licencing, inspection, and sanctions for violations.

Efforts to improve the capacity of public managers and law abidance in the field by citizens and businesses are also necessary, he added./.

ADMM+ an effective mechanism in response to security challenges

The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM+) has become an effective and practical defence-security consultative mechanism, helping the region cope with emerging non-traditional security challenges over the past decade, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has said.

In a message sent to a virtual ceremony marking the 10th anniversary of the founding of the ADMM-Plus hosted by the Defence Ministry on December 10, the PM highlighted that the anniversary is a milestone in cooperation between ASEAN member states and their eight dialogue partners, contributing to maintaining a peaceful and stable environment in the region.

Amid the formidable challenges in the region and the world, particularly as COVID-19 has ravaged the five continents, the PM underlined that it is time for multilateral cooperation mechanisms in the region led by ASEAN, including ADMM Plus, to promote their role in ensuring peace and stable cooperation.

He took the occasion to speak highly of the new working methods of ADMM and ADMM Plus mechanisms in 2020, such as the organisation of online conferences, which contribute to maintaining dialogue and momentum of cooperation within the ASEAN bloc as well as between ASEAN and its partners.

With the results of the ADMM Plus mechanism in the past, PM Phuc said all parties should identify a proper position for ASEAN in the post-pandemic world, with a central role in preserving a peaceful, stable, and united region based on international law.

ASEAN should continue to prove its mettle and promote its leading role in boosting cooperation, dialogue, and trust building among nations, while settling disputes and differences via peaceful means and based on international rules and ASEAN documents on regional code of conduct, he stressed.

The Government leader suggested ASEAN pay due regard to the wish and needs of countries outside the region to cooperate with the bloc for the common purpose of regional peace, stability, and practical development, explaining the move would help better the capacity of ASEAN member states in response to emerging security threats.

The Vietnamese Government pledges close cooperation and concerted effort with other ASEAN members to realise the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 and build a cohesive and responsive ASEAN Community.

PM Phuc expressed a hope that the ADMM Plus mechanism will further develop and achieve important progress in preserving peace, stability, and prosperous cooperation, thus living up to the expectations of local people.

At the ceremony, Vietnamese Minister of Defence General Ngo Xuan Lich described the establishment of the ADMM Plus mechanism as a significant contribution by Vietnam to ASEAN’s development.

Since the first meeting in Hanoi in 2010, the ADMM Plus mechanism has played an important role in regional peace and stability as well as mutual understanding and trust among nations, creating a premise for ASEAN to enhance regional connectivity in the time ahead.

Lich said that in order to adapt to the changeable regional and international environment with intertwined opportunities and challenges, members of the ADMM Plus should make further efforts to consolidate the mechanism’s role in the shaping regional architecture with ASEAN at the centre through close collaboration with other cooperative mechanisms where ASEAN plays a central role, such as the East Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Forum.

As a proactive and responsible member of ASEAN as well as ADMM Plus, Vietnam will do its utmost and work with ASEAN states and partners to build a region of peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

The ASEAN Secretary General, the Indian Defence Minister, the Japanese Defence Minister, and the UN Under-Secretary General delivered speeches congratulating the ADMM Plus on its 10th anniversary./.

Vietnam Green Building Week 2020 kicks off

The Ministry of Construction and the UN Development Programme (UNDP) jointly launched Vietnam Green Building Week 2020 on December 9 as part of the activities in response to World Green Building Week.

Supported by the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH and other agencies and institutions, the three-day event is expected to attract nearly 1,000 delegates from ministries, provincial authorities, national and international organisations, and enterprises.

It aims to create a forum for idea sharing and information and experience exchanges on policy development; new technologies, products, equipment, and building materials to develop green and energy efficient buildings; urban development projects towards reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and environmental impacts for better living environments; and using resources economically and effectively.

It also demonstrates the efforts and actions of Vietnam to promote energy saving and environmental protection in the construction sector, contributing to the implementation of the country’s international commitments on climate change and sustainable development.

According to Deputy Minister of Construction Le Quang Hung, UNDP’s demonstration projects on the application of energy efficient solutions in new and existing buildings has resulted in potential energy saving of between 25 and 67 percent per building, at an incremental cost of about 3 percent of the total investment cost per building and with a maximum payback period of five years.

However, the total number of certified green buildings in Vietnam remained at just 150 as of the end of 2019.

The organisation of the annual Vietnam Green Building Week is expected to raise awareness among the stakeholders about promoting green and energy efficient projects, Hung stressed.

Participants are discussing and proposing mechanisms and policies and introducing effective technical and technological solutions to promote green urban development, green buildings, and energy efficient buildings in Vietnam.

According to architect Nguyen Trung Kien from the Vilandco Company, the Vietnam Green Building Council has built a green building certification system (also known as LOTUS) to evaluate green buildings in the country./.

Vietnam actively contributing to ASEAN defence cooperation

The 14th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), the 7th ADMM Plus (ADMM+), and related events are taking place via videoconference from December 9-10 under the chair of Vietnam.

Vietnam has actively joined in the cooperation mechanisms, making active and important contributions to promoting the development of the ADMM and maintaining peace, stability, and cooperation for the prosperity of the region.

The country has proposed vital initiatives, including a commitment to “not use force first in dispute settlement”, strengthening naval cooperation in the region through joint patrols, and establishing hotlines among regional navies and defence leaders of ASEAN member countries.

Vietnam has also supported initiatives in the spheres of combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, border management, and enhancing ASEAN’s centrality in cooperation with ASEAN partners. These efforts have created a basis for promoting Vietnam’s initiatives and activities in 2020 as the ASEAN Chair.

It has strongly promoted and contributed significantly to setting up ADMM+, and successfully hosted the 1st ADMM+ , which approved five priority cooperation areas: maritime security, peacekeeping, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief.

The 2nd ADMM+ , hosted by Brunei in 2013, approved the sixth priority area for cooperation proposed by Vietnam, related to humanitarian mine action.

Initiated in 2006, the ADMM is the highest defence consultation and cooperation mechanism in ASEAN and an important component of the ASEAN Political-Security Community (APSC). It provides a framework for defence-security dialogue and consultation on strategic and defence-security issues, contributing to forming a foundation for promoting practical cooperation between the armed forces of regional countries.

The organisation of the ADMM is a new step in the framework of defence-security cooperation, which enjoys particular attention by ASEAN member countries as it relates to peace and stability in the region and the national security of each country.

The first ADMM (ADMM-1) was hosted by Malaysia in 2006. Vietnam chaired ADMM-4 in 2010, focusing on measures to enhance ASEAN defence cooperation for a stable and developed bloc. The most recent meeting was chaired by Thailand in 2019, with the theme “Sustainable security”.

Fifteen initiatives have been implemented within the framework of the ADMM, focusing on promoting military and civil cooperation to cope with non-traditional challenges, defence industry cooperation, defence exchange, logistics support, direct communications infrastructure, military medical and education-training cooperation, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, and border management support, among others./.

Source: VNA/VNN/VNS/SGGP/VOV/NDO/Dtinews/SGT/VIR