DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
1
Maõ soá:
CTQG - 2016
SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIET NAM MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS -----------
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
NATIONAL POLITICAL PUBLISHING HOUSE HANOI - 2016 3
PUBLISHER’S NOTES
S
of
The second chapter gives an
Foreign Affairs has annually
overview of major bilateral diplomatic
ince
2008,
published
the
the
Ministry Chronicle
of
activities,
especially
those
Vietnamese Diplomatic Activities for
neighboring
the purposes of reference, research,
partners, and regions as well.
and searching on the diplomatic activities of Viet Nam.
countries,
with
important
The third chapter elaborates multilateral diplomatic activities,
Since 2014, to better introduce
and human rights and democracy,
to the domestic and world public
in which emphasis is placed on
about
activities at the United Nations and
the
foreign
policy
and
major diplomatic activities of the
international
Communist Party and State of Viet
regional mechanisms, and activities
Nam within a one-year timeframe,
concerning democracy and human
the Ministry has decided to publish
rights.
the bluebook of Viet Nam’s Diplomacy. Diplomatic Bluebook 2014 consists
organizations
and
The fourth chapter covers the diplomatic
activities
contributing
of five chapters and an appendix,
to the country’s development, such
recording main contents on the Viet
as
Nam’s diplomacy in 2014.
international economic integration;
The first chapter outlines the
economic
cultural
diplomacy
diplomacy
and
information;
and
external
international and regional situation,
relations
overseas
and the Communist Party and State
Vietnamese-related
of Viet Nam’s foreign policy.
diplomacy of the National Assembly
activities;
5
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
of Viet Nam, the Communist Party of Viet Nam, and the Vietnamese people. The fifth chapter goes into further details of the Communist Party,
National
Assembly
and
people’s diplomacy. The appendix will provide the chronicle of important diplomatic activities in 2014 for reference.
6
The
book
also
contains
documentary pictures about major diplomatic activities in 2014. Honorably introduce this book to readers. December 2015 NATIONAL POLITICAL PUBLISHING HOUSE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Publisher’s Notes........................................................................................................... 5 INTRODUCTION....................................................................................................... 9 GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS................................................................................. 11
Chapter One
THE WORLD AND REGIONAL SITUATION IN 2014, THE COMMUNIST PARTY AND STATE OF VIET NAM’S FOREIGN POLICY .............................. 13
I. The World and Regional Situation.................................................................. 13 II. The Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s Foreign Policy.................. 15
Chapter Two
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations ................................................... 18
I. Relations with Neighboring Countries........................................................... 18 II. Relations with Other Partners.......................................................................... 27
Chapter Three
MULTILATERAL DIPLOMACY AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION ON ENSURING HUMAN RIGHTS .......................................................... 38
I. Diplomatic Activities at the United Nations and International Organizations..................................................................................................... 38 II. Diplomatic Activities at Regional Mechanisms............................................. 40 III. International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights............................... 44
Chapter Four
DIPLOMACY FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT ........................................ 47
I. Economic Diplomacy and International Economic Integration.................. 47 II. Cultural Diplomacy and External Communications.................................... 49 III. Overseas Vietnamese Affairs and the Protection of Vietnamese Citizens and Entities Abroad............................................................................ 52 7
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
Chapter Five
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OF THE COMMUNIST PARTY AND THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, AND PEOPLE’S DIPLOMACY ............................................. 53
I. External Affairs of the Communist Party of Viet Nam................................. 53 II. The National Assembly’s External Affairs..................................................... 55 III. People’s Diplomacy........................................................................................... 57
Appendix
8
Chronicle of important events in 2014 ..................................... 60
H.E. Pham Binh Minh Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister
INTRODUCTION
I
n 2014, Viet Nam’s diplomacy with
The diplomacy of the new Viet
the spirit of “active international
Nam, which was founded on August
integration”
has
great
28, 1945 by President Ho Chi Minh
successes. We step into the year 2015
as its first foreign minister, also
with
celebrated its 70th year of development
important
recorded events:
the
85
th
anniversary of the founding of the
(1945-2015).
Communist Party of Viet Nam (1930-
Over the last seventy years,
anniversary of the
ever since its inception, Viet Nam’s
birth of the Democratic Republic of
diplomacy has been marching in
Viet Nam, now the Socialist Republic
step with the entire nation in the
of Viet Nam (1945-2015), the 125th
struggle for the Fatherland’s sacred
birthday of President Ho Chi Minh
independence, freedom, sovereignty
anniversary
and territorial integrity, as well as in
of the liberation of the South and
building a prosperous country and
national reunification (1975-2015),...
promoting international integration.
2015), the 70
th
(1890-2015) and the 40
th
9
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
During the last years, Viet Nam’s diplomacy
has
been
promoted
comprehensively
and
effectively
across all fields: political diplomacy (including defense and security), economic diplomacy (including trade, investment,
official
assistance
(ODA),
development science
and
technology, and labor cooperation), cultural diplomacy (including social field, education and training, and tourism) and activities concerning overseas
Vietnamese
protection
of
(including
Vietnamese
citizen
and legal persons, and community activities). In order to widely introduce to
State of Viet Nam on external relations and international integration as well as Viet Nam’s relations with the world countries, including neighboring and regional countries, strategic and comprehensive partners, traditional friends; Viet Nam’s participation in regional and international organizations and forums for the benefit of Viet Nam’s national defense and international integration. The book highlights both bilateral and multilateral diplomatic activities. It also covers all four pillars of political, economic and cultural diplomacy, and activities concerning overseas Vietnamese.
the people of Viet Nam as well as the
The bluebook of Viet Nam’s
world about the orientation, policies
diplomacy could be widely used as
and
activities
a concise material to introduce the
undertaken by the Communist Party
diplomatic activities in one year.
Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s foreign policy. Policymakers and researchers in Viet Nam and overseas alike can use it as a tool for reference to have a comprehensive overview of Viet Nam’s diplomacy.
The first bluebook to be published is
I hope that this book will provide
major
diplomatic
and State of Viet Nam, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs decided to publish the bluebook of Viet Nam’s diplomacy that
details
the
most
important
Diplomatic Bluebook 2014. This
bluebook
elaborates
useful and necessary information for the
policymakers, researchers, lecturers,
foreign policy and strategic orienta-
students, and those who are interested
tions of the Communist Party and
in Viet Nam’s diplomatic activities. PHAM BINH MINH
Deputy Prime Minister, Foreign Minister
10
GLOSSARY OF ACRONYMS ABAC
APEC
Business Advisory
CICA
Council
and Confidence - Building Measures in Asia
ACMECS Ayeyawady - Chao Phraya Mekong Economic Cooperation Strategy ACWO
Conference on Interaction
CLMV
Cooperative
mechanism
between the four countries of
ASEAN Confederation of
Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar
Women’s Organizations
and Viet Nam
ADB
Asian Development Bank
ADMM
ASEAN Defense Ministers’
between the three countries
Meeting
of Cambodia, Laos and Viet
ASEAN - EU Ministerial
Nam
AEMM
Meeting AIIB
COC DOC
AMM
EAS
ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting
APEC
Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation
ARF
ASEAN Regional Forum
ASEAN
Association
of
Southeast
Asian Nations ASEM
Asia-Europe Meeting
BRICS
Group of emerging national
mechanism
Code of Conduct of Parties Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the East Sea
ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly
Cooperative
in the East Sea
Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank
AIPA
CLV
East Asia Summit
ECOSOC The United Nations Economic and Social Council ESCAP
Economic
and
Social
Commission for Asia and the Pacific EU
European Union
EVFTA
EU - Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement
economies (Brazil, Russia,
FDI
Foreign Direct Investment
India, China, and South
FEALAC
Forum for East Asia - Latin
Africa)
America Cooperation 11
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
FTA
Free Trade Agreement
FTAAP
Free Trade Area of the AsiaPacific
GMS
Greater Mekong Subregion
IAEA
International Atomic Energy Agency
IMF
Regional
Comprehensive
Economic Partnership SCO
Shanghai
Cooperation
Organization TFA
Trade Facilitation Agreement
TPP
Trans-Pacific Partnership
International Monetary Fund
TTIP
Transatlantic
IPU
International Parliamentary Union
UN
MDG
United Nations Millennium Development Goals
UNCLOS United Nations Convention
Memorandum of Understanding
UNCTAD United Nations Conference
NDB
New Development Bank
UNESCO United Nations Educational,
NGO
Non-governmental Organization
MOU
ODA OECD
PCA
PSI
12
RCEP
Official Assistance
Development
Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development EU - Viet Nam Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Proliferation Security Initiative
Trade
and
Investment Partnership United Nations on the Law of the Sea on Trade and Development Scientific
and
Cultural
Organization UPR
Universal Periodic Review of the United Nations Human Rights Council
WB
World Bank
WEF
World Economic Forum
East Asia World Economic Forum on WEF
East Asia
WTO
World Trade Organization
Chapter One
THE WORLD AND REGIONAL SITUATION IN 2014, THE COMMUNIST PARTY AND STATE OF VIET NAM’S FOREIGN POLICY
I. The World and Regional Situation 1. Economic Situation
Generation”
a. The world economy continued
cover a wide range of areas, and
to recover with a growth of 2.8%, lower
are inclusive of many sustainable
than the forecast at the beginning of
development clauses. Among them,
the year. Trade, investment and multitiered economic links at both regional and inter-regional levels continued to expand, albeit slowly and facing many difficulties. In sum, the world economic recovery remained uncertain. b. As the engine for economic growth has step by step recovered, the global FDI flow continued to grow and shifted to developed countries as a trend. According to a report by UNCTAD, in 2014 the FDI flow into
high-standard
FTAs
the ones most stand out is the TPP agreement consisting of 12 countries in the Asia-Pacific region, and the TTIP agreement between the United States and the EU. On a global scale, the Doha Negotiation Round continued to face difficulties in spite of a few important agreements reached on the implementation of the “Bali Package” at the end of 2014, including the TFA, to assist international trade recovery. 2. Political and Security Situation The situation of the world and
developed countries grew by about
most regions evolved with more
35%, while that into developing
tense and uncertain developments
countries did not increase.
compared to 2013.
c. The trend of international
a. Asia-Pacific, which continued to
economic integration and linkage
be the engine of the global economy
through the negotiation of FTAs was
with an average growth of 6.2%,
on the sharp rise, especially in the
witnessed
Asia-Pacific region. These “New-
security developments.
complex
political
and
13
Chapter One
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
The Northeast Asian situation, though generally stable, continued to face contradictions as a result of historical and security issues and territorial disputes. These include the East China Sea disputes, the situation on the Korean Peninsula, and so on. In Southeast Asia, the ASEAN countries continued to promote linkage and cooperation across all areas, following the Roadmap of the ASEAN Community in 2015 and the post-2015 ASEAN Community Vision, deepen and broaden ties with its partners, uphold its central role in an evolving regional architecture, contributing to the maintenance of peace, stability and development in the region. ASEAN’s documents in 2014, especially the AMM Statement on the Developments in the East Sea (May 10, 2014), Joint Communique of the 47th AMM (August 2014), Chairman’s Statement of the 24th (May 2014) and 25th (November 2014) ASEAN Summits, all emphasized that the maintenance of peace, stability, maritime security and safety and freedom of navigation and overflight are a common interest and responsibility, called for selfrestraint, supported the peaceful settlement of disputes on the basis of international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982, and the strict adherence to the Declaration of Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and an early conclusion of a 14
Code of Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (COC). b. New developments also emerged in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America. The EU integration process of Central and East European countries continued to be strengthened. The situation in Greece and Ukraine remained complex. Uncertainties continued to take center stage in the Middle East with complicated issues arising in Iraq and Syria, the self-proclaimed Islamic State, and Middle East peace process at a standstill. The African economy continued to expand. More and more countries are paying attention to the African market. However, the African political scene was still largely unstable, religious, extremist and terrorist forces emerged in various countries. The Ebola epidemic situation remained complex. Latin American economies’ growth has stalled in the context of their key partners encountering difficulties, thereby lowering both their domestic consumption and export needs. Such an international and regional situation has had a deep impact on the peace, security and development of Viet Nam, especially the East Sea issue. However, Viet Nam also enjoyed several major advantages. Countries in the world continued to support Viet Nam’s foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and comprehensive integration, highly regard Viet Nam’s international position and promote friendly and cooperative ties with Viet Nam.
The World and Regional Situation in 2014, the Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s Foreign Policy
Chapter One
II. The Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s Foreign Policy With the spirit of “proactive international integration”, Viet Nam’s diplomacy in 2014 focused on the following missions: 1. Accelerate the implementation of the Communist Party Politburo’s Resolution 22-NQ/TW on international integration and the Communist Party Central Committee’s Resolution 28-NQ/TW on the national protection strategy in the new situation. 2. Continue to add more substance to ties with other countries, especially with neighboring and regional countries, important partners and traditional friends. Settle satisfactorily existing and newly emerging issues in the relations with other countries on the basis of international law, equity and mutual benefit. Identify concrete areas and measures to further deepen relations with important partners - especially strategic and comprehensive partners. Actively promote the implementation of signed agreements and treaties with partners. Promote shared interests. 3. Promote multilateral diplomatic activities in concert with bilateral diplomacy; actively capitalize on favorable international integration conditions to serve national building and defense. Take active steps to contribute to solidarity and unity for the realization of the ASEAN Community in 2015 and the
development of the post-2015 ASEAN Vision; actively participate in ASEAN-led mechanisms as well as at international forums such as APEC, ASEM, EAS, FEALAC,... Increase participation in addressing global issues within the framework of the United Nations and other multilateral organizations; implement commitments and promote initiatives for the promotion of economic linkage, development cooperation, sustainable water resource management, disaster response, maritime safety and security, social welfare, poverty reduction, and narrowing the development gap. Promote cooperation in the area of the Mekong water security. Actively prepare for participating in the United Nations peacekeeping missions; successfully complete the term as the Chair of the IAEA’s Board of Governors; successfully host the 2015 International Parliamentary Union Assembly (IPU-132); accomplish the mandate as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council (2014-2016) and the World Heritage Committee (2013-2017). 4. Promote economic diplomacy, positively contribute to the process of economic recovery, macroeconomic stabilization, economic restructuring and growth model transformation; further deepen the economic and trade cooperation with partner countries; 15
Chapter One
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
attract FDI and ODA, expand the export market; promote the early conclusion and preparation for implementing FTAs with the Republic of Korea (ROK), EU, Eurasian Economic Union, RCEP and TPP. Actively participate in such activities as the 22th APEC Summit, 10th ASEM, 8th CLV Summit, 7th CLMV Summit, 6th ACMECS, 5th GMS, WEF and East Asia WEF, 47th AMM and 24th ASEAN Summit. 5. Promote cultural diplomacy and improve the efficiency of external communications activities; implement the Project for the Promotion of Viet Nam’s Participation in the work of the UNESCO in the 2013 to 2018 period and the Cultural Diplomacy Strategy until 2020; comprehensively realize the Memorandum of Understanding between Viet Nam and the UNESCO for the 2010-2015 period; closely combine political diplomacy, economic diplomacy and cultural diplomacy; improve the quality and effectiveness of Viet Nam Week/Day. 6. Improve the efficiency of citizen and legal person protection activities overseas; focus on the participation
and signing of international consular treaties. Promote the implementation of the Communist Party Politburo’s March 26, 2004 Resolution 36-NQ/ TW on the activities concerning overseas Vietnamese via concrete policies; promote the teaching and learning of Vietnamese within overseas Vietnamese communities; assist overseas Vietnamese communities in strengthening the unity and integrating into the local society, thereby playing a positive contributing role to the development of friendly ties and cooperation between Viet Nam and the respective countries. 7. Continue to properly settle the border and territorial issues on land and at sea, resolve disputes by peaceful means on the basis of international laws, including the United Nations Charter and the UNCLOS 1982; abide by international treaties that Viet Nam is a signatory to; adhere to the DOC and promote the early conclusion of the COC; promote friendly ties with parties concerned to maintain peace and stability in the region.
For Viet Nam’s diplomacy, 2014 was identified as “the year for proactive international integration” with a wide range of activities to promote Viet Nam’s ever widening and deepening international integration process. On April 23, the Government of Viet Nam established the National Steering Committee for International Integration chaired by the Prime Minister, and on May 13 released the Government’s Action Plan for the Promotion and Realization of the Communist Party Politburo’s Resolution 22-NQ/TW dated April 10, 2013 on international 16
The World and Regional Situation in 2014, the Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s Foreign Policy
Chapter One
integration. As a responsible member, Viet Nam has actively participated in the work of regional and international organizations such as in the development of the ASEAN Community, bringing forward many cooperative initiatives within APEC, EAS, ASEM, WEF, etc. Viet Nam has actively promoted international economic integration through the negotiation and signing of regional and interregional FTAs such as the FTA between Viet Nam and the Eurasian Economic Union, EVFTA, RCEP, FTAAP and TPP. Viet Nam has also successfully completed her tenure as a member and Chair of the IAEA’s Board of Governors for the 2013-2014 term. Most importantly, at the United Nations, Viet Nam has been making important contributions as a member of the United Nations Human Rights Council for the term of 2014-2016, participated for the first time in the United Nations Peacekeeping Operations, continued to implement the Project for the Promotion of Viet Nam’s Participation in the Work of the UNESCO in the 2013-2018 period, fulfilled her role as a member of the World Heritage Committee for the term of 2013-2017, as Vice Chair of the 2005 Convention General Assembly and as Vice Chair of the Memories of the World Program for the Asia-Pacific during 2014-2018.
Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh presenting the Decision and the blue beret to the two United Nations peacekeeping officers in South Sudan in Hanoi (May 27, 2014)
17
Chapter Two
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
G
iven complicated and unpredictable developments unfolding in the world, diplomacy has strictly followed the principles and guidelines set by the 11th Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam, Resolution No. 22-NQ/TW of the Communist Party Politburo on international integration, Resolution 28-NQ/TW of the 8th Plenum of the Communist Party Central Committee on strategy for national defense in the new situation.
The tasks of diplomacy were implemented synchronously and comprehensively to meet three major objectives: 1) Safeguard independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, maintain political and social stability; 2) Maintain a peaceful and stable environment, add more substance and effectiveness to the relations with partners; 3) Contribute to the cause of national development and enhance the country’s position in the international arena.
I. Relations with Neighboring Countries 1. Cambodia: The “good neighborliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive and long-term cooperation” between Viet Nam and Cambodia were further consolidated and strengthened, bringing about practical benefits to both peoples. The two sides maintained regular exchanges of high-level visits and between ministries, agencies and provinces. President Truong Tan Sang paid a State visit to Cambodia in December 2014; Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung paid a working visit to Cambodia in January 2014; 18
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh cochaired the 13th Meeting of the Viet Nam - Cambodia Joint Committee on Economic, Cultural, Scientific and Technological Cooperation in Phnom Penh in February 2014; Chairman of the National Assembly Heng Samrin attended the 35th anniversary of the Southwest Border Defense War Victory, leading Cambodian military and people’s triumph to defeat the genocidal regime in January 2014 and paid an official visit to Viet Nam in August 2014; Prime Minister
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Hun Sen attended the 2nd Summit of the International Mekong River Commission in Ho Chi Minh City in April 2014. The two sides worked closely with each other in exchanging information, settling arising border issues, education and training, maintaining joint patrols at sea, search, excavation and repatriation of Vietnamese voluntary soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the war in Cambodia. The two countries have achieved progresses in the delimitation and demarcation of land borders, while promoting negotiations to find solutions to outstanding issues. The two sides agreed to promote further cooperation to move forward the demarcation process
Chapter Two
with a view to building a borderline of peace, friendship, cooperation and development. The two sides also agreed to create favourable conditions for and accord equal treatments to nationals of each respective country as provided for nationals of other origins. Bilateral trade in 2014 reached 3.225 billion USD, the two sides committed to reach the target of 5 billion USD in 2015. Viet Nam has invested in 134 projects in Cambodia with total registered capital of 3.36 billion USD. Most of the projects operated in a number of areas such as cash crops, mining; oil and gas and petroleum; telecommunications; finance and banking, etc.
President Truong Tan Sang leading a high-ranking delegation to Cambodia (December 23-24, 2014)
19
Chapter Two
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
2. Laos: The traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Viet Nam - Laos continued to expand. Political ties and mutual trust were strengthened. The two sides have maintained regular exchange of high-level visits and between ministries, agencies and provinces. General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong visited Laos in April 2014; Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the 8th Summit of the Triangle Development Area (CLV-8) in Laos in November 2014; Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc paid a working visit to Laos in December 2014; Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh paid an official visit to Laos in December 2014. Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong paid a working visit to Viet Nam in March 2014 and attended the 2nd Summit of the International Mekong River Commission in April 2014; Deputy Prime Minister Asang Laoly paid a working visit to Viet Nam in April 2014 and attended the 60th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu Victory in May 2014; Deputy Prime Minister Bunpon Buttanavong paid an official visit to Viet Nam in October 2014; Vice-chairman of the National Assembly Somphanh Phengkhammy paid a working visit to Viet Nam in March 2014, etc. Progress has been made in economic, trade and investment cooperation between the two countries. Bilateral trade in 2014 reached 1.4 billion USD, an increase 20
of 34.5% compared to 2013. Currently, Viet Nam is the third largest investor in Laos with 413 projects and total registered capital of 5 billion USD. A number of investment projects by Viet Nam are now rapidly and effectively deployed in a number of areas such as rubber, sugar, telecommunications, banking, etc. Security - defense cooperation between the two countries are constantly strengthened and effectively implemented in all areas. The two sides have worked in close collaboration in security - defense cooperation, contributing to political stability, social order and safety in both countries as well as in border areas. The two sides have worked closely with each other to implement the Master Plan to increase both the number and durability of the border marks as scheduled. Joint efforts are made in border management and implementation of the Government agreement on settling the issues of illegal migrants and unregistered marriages in border areas. The two sides are now engaged in negotiating the New Draft Agreement on Regulations on the Management of the Viet Nam - Laos Border and Border Checkpoints. Progress has been made in cooperation in other areas such as education and training, science and technology, transportation, agriculture forestry,... 3. China: During the first four months of 2014, both sides carried out multiple high-level contacts: General
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Chapter Two
General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party Central Committee, President of the People’s Democratic Republic of Laos Choummaly Sayasone on a high-ranking visit to Viet Nam (August 18-21, 2014)
Secretaries of the two Parties exchanged telephone conversations via hot line in January 2014; Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met Chinese General Secretary, President Xi Jinping on the sideline of the Nuclear Security Summit in the Netherlands in March 2014 and other visits and exchanges. The two sides have maintained regular exchanges and cooperation between the Communist Party Commissions, ministries, agencies and provinces. Since China’s deployment of the Hai Yang - 981 oil rig in the Vietnamese waters in May 2014, the bilateral
relations have experienced a serious decline. However, the two sides have maintained exchanges and contacts to find ways and means to restore cooperation mechanisms, with the intention of developing sound and stable Viet Nam - China relations, keeping disagreements at sea under control and refraining from actions that would further complicate the situation or expand disputes. From late August 2014, Viet Nam China relations have been gradually restored: President Truong Tan Sang met Chinese General Secretary, 21
Chapter Two
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
President Xi Jinping on the sideline of the APEC Summit in Beijing in November 2014; Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met Premier Li Keqiang on the sideline of the 10th ASEM Summit in Italy in October 2014; Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh met the Member of the Politburo Standing Board, Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli on the occasion of the 11th China - ASEAN Expo in Guangxi in September 2014; Member of the Politburo Standing Board, Chairman of Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng visited Viet Nam in December 2014. The two sides held the 7th Meeting of the Steering Committee for Viet Nam - China Bilateral Cooperation in Viet Nam in October 2014.
On the economic front, China has been Viet Nam’s largest trade partner for ten consecutive years, trade turnover between Viet Nam China reached 58.78 billion USD in 2014, in which Viet Nam exported 14.91 billion USD and imported 43.87 billion USD (an increase of 17.16%, 12.70% and 18.76% respectively over the same period in 2013). By 2014, China had made investment in 1,082 projects with a total registered capital of 7.9 billion USD, ranking the 9th out of 101 countries and territories making investment in Viet Nam. In tourism, China continued to rank the 1st in number of visitors to Viet Nam. Viet Nam received 1.94 million Chinese tourists in 2014.
In the first four months of 2014, in general Viet Nam - China relations witnessed positive development. However, since China’s illegal deployment of the Hai Yang - 981 oil rig in the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of Viet Nam from May 1 to July 15, 2014, the bilateral relations were adversely affected. To safeguard its sovereignty and territorial integrity, Viet Nam has pursued a consistent policy to settle issues by peaceful means, including measures in the political and diplomatic areas on the ground, public voices and external communications. All these are aimed at reiterating Viet Nam’s legitimate position at multilateral forums. At domestic and international forums, Vietnamese leaders clearly stated position on tensions in the East Sea, opposing China’s actions in the East Sea as a particularly serious violation of international law, including the UNCLOS 1982 and the DOC. They reaffirmed that Viet Nam carried out legitimate activities in consistence with international law to safeguard national sovereignty and its legitimate interests. Viet Nam’s stance and efforts to settle disputes by peaceful means have received extensive support from the international community. 22
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Chapter Two
China’s illegal deployment of the Hai Yang - 981 oil rig in the exclusive economic zone and continental shelf of Viet Nam from May 1 to July 15, 2014
4. With other Southeast Asian Countries: In general, the bilateral relations between Viet Nam and each individual ASEAN country continued to develop strongly. - Brunei: The relations between Viet Nam and Brunei have grown quite steadily. In 2014, two-way trade value between the two countries amounted to 167.7 million USD. In 2014 alone, Brunei invested in 15 projects more with registered capital of 60.5 million USD, making it the 20th largest investor in Viet Nam with 159 projects totaling 1.61 billion USD. The two countries signed an MOU on bilateral cooperation between the Ministry of Education and Training of Viet Nam and the Ministry of Education of Brunei on April 9 and an MOU on cooperation between the Government Inspectorate of
the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam and Brunei Darussalam’s AntiCorruption Bureau on September 8. Defense cooperation continued to be enhanced. The KDB Darulehsan of the Royal Brunei Navy paid a visit to Hai Phong from April 29 to May 2, 2014. Two Vietnamese vessels, the HQ-011 and HQ-012 with 200 officers and crew members, paid an official visit to Brunei from November 19-21. The Director of the Brunei’s Defense Academy visited Viet Nam from May 5-8 and discussed with the Vietnamese side the measures to foster cooperation programs such as English language training, naval cooperation, and information and experience exchange. - Indonesia: The strategic partnership between Viet Nam and Indonesia was established in 2013 and realized 23
Chapter Two
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
through the Viet Nam - Indonesia Plan of Action for the 2014-2018 period. Cooperation in key areas such as political, security, defense, legal, economic, trade, investment, cultural, social, food and energy security fields was given due attention. The two sides have worked closely at regional, interregional and multilateral platforms. In 2014, the two countries conducted many cooperation activities, including people-to-people exchanges and those in economic, cultural and educational areas. Indonesia has 40 investment projects in Viet Nam valued at 367 million USD while Viet Nam has 7 projects in Indonesia valued at 50 million USD. Indonesian President Joko Widodo met President Truong Tan Sang on the sideline of APEC on November 10. The two Presidents discussed regional and international issues, including those related to ASEAN and the East Sea. They also agreed on measures to promote Viet Nam - Indonesia strategic partnership, including the target to increase the bilateral trade to 10 billion USD by 2018 (compared to 5 billion USD in 2013) and the celebration of the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries (1955-2015). - Malaysia: Our relations with Malaysia were deepened after the visit to Viet Nam by Prime Minister Najib Razak from April 3-5 when the two sides agreed to upgrade bilateral relations to strategic partnership. The two sides agreed to increase bilateral 24
trade from 8.124 billion USD in 2014 to 11 billion USD by 2015 and facilitate trade and investment activities by businesses in each other’s market. By the end of 2014, Malaysia was the 8th largest FDI investor in Viet Nam with 484 projects and 10.8 billion USD of registered capital. On the other hand, Viet Nam has invested in 9 Malaysiabased projects with total capital of 812.6 million USD. The two countries agreed on the importance of maintaining peace, stability, maritime security, safety and freedom of navigation and over-flight in the East Sea. Both sides also supported ASEAN’s common position expressed in the ASEAN’s Six-point Principles on the East Sea as well as peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, especially the UNCLOS 1982, full compliance with the DOC and efforts for early conclusion of the COC. Both countries made commitment to promoting the ASEAN’s centrality on issues relating to regional peace and security, including the East Sea issue. - Myanmar: The traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Viet Nam and Myanmar has prospered in recent years. High-level visits and contacts were maintained. Speaker of the Assembly of the Union of Myanmar visited Viet Nam in September 2014 and Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met with the President of Myanmar Thein Sein on the sideline of ASEM Summit in October 2014.
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Bilateral cooperation mechanisms were further enhanced. This includes political consultations between the two Foreign Ministries, the jointcommittee on bilateral cooperation and the joint sub-committee on trade. In 2014, bilateral trade between Viet Nam and Myanmar reached 480.65 million USD (a 35.4% increase from 2013). The target set for 2015 was 500 million USD. As many as 35 Vietnamese companies have opened subsidiaries and representative offices in Myanmar. Seven projects by Vietnamese companies valued at 513.18 million USD have been granted with investment license, making Viet Nam the 8th largest investor among 33 countries having investment in Myanmar. Defense and security cooperation continued to grow with the exchange of senior official visits, experiences sharing, exploration of cooperation potentials in defense industries, and training courses for officials. Cooperation within the framework of Bilateral Agreement on Crime Prevention, INTERPOL and ASEANAPOL was maintained. The second Security Dialogue at Deputy Ministerial level between Viet Nam’s Public Security Ministry and Myanmar’s Ministry of Home Affairs took place in December 2014. The two countries are in the process of drafting and negotiating agreements on mutual legal assistance and extradition.
Chapter Two
- The Philippines: Bilateral relations between Viet Nam and the Philippines has been fostered in politics, defense security, tourism and trade. On May 21, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung paid a working visit to the Philippines on the occasion of the 2014 World Economic Forum (WEF) on East Asia (May 21-23). The two countries agreed to enhance exchange of visits and contacts at all levels, including at highranking level, between ministries, sectors, localities, Parties, National Assemblies, and the peoples. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to successfully implementing the Viet Nam - Philippines Action Plan for the 2011-2016 period. The two sides also agreed to promote the implementation of existing agreements on defense and security; consider the possibility of establishing a mechanism for defense policy dialogues at deputy ministerial level; and work closely at regional arrangements on defense and security such as ADMM, ADMM+, ARF, etc. Viet Nam and the Philippines reaffirmed their determination to strengthen sea and ocean cooperation between the two countries while further enhancing economic cooperation by making efforts to bring bilateral trade from 2.8 billion USD in 2014 to 3 billion USD in 2015, supporting businesses of both sides in engaging in cooperation activities, promoting economic linkages and 25
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
ensuring food security. They agreed to establish a Joint Working Group led by the two Foreign Ministers to formulate a roadmap towards strategic partnership. - Thailand: On November 27, 2014, during Prime Minister Prayut Chano-Cha’s official visit to Viet Nam, the two sides signed the Action Plan for the implementation of Viet Nam - Thai Strategic Partnership for 2014-2018, the Cultural Cooperation Program for 2014-2016 and agreed to make efforts to increase two-way trade turnover from 10.6 billion USD in 2014 (which already increased by 12.5% compared to 2013) to 15 billion USD in 2020. By the end of 2014, Thailand was the 10th largest investor in Viet Nam with 6.7 billion USD in 371 projects. In 2014, five more provinces and cities in Viet Nam established sister relationship with five Thai counterparts. Defense security cooperation was enhanced through exchange of delegations, implementation of agreements and maintenance of existing cooperative mechanisms. The two countries continued to work closely on the common position of ASEAN in the East Sea issue for the peaceful settlement of disputes in accordance with international law, especially the UNCLOS 1982, fully implementing the DOC and working together towards an early conclusion of the COC. On December 20, Prime 26
Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the GMS Summit in Thailand and Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-Cha invited Prime Minister Dung to pay an official visit to Thailand and co-chair the third Joint Cabinet Meeting in 2015. - Singapore: The strategic partnership (established in 2013) has enjoyed dynamic development. In 2014, foreign direct investment (FDI) from Singapore reached 32.7 billion USD (compared to 23 billion USD in 2011) with over 1,350 projects. Bilateral trade amounted to 15.6 billion USD (a 20.3% increase from 2013), in which Viet Nam’s export value was 3.1 billion USD (a 22.4% increase) and import value was 12.75 billion USD (a 20.1% increase). Among ASEAN countries, Singapore is the largest investor and third largest trade partner of Viet Nam. The two countries have coordinated quite effectively at regional and international forums. They have worked closely in building the ASEAN Community and maintaining peace, stability and cooperation in Southeast Asia and Asia - Pacific region. The two countries have coordinated efforts in the negotiation of TPP, RCEP and within the framework of APEC, ASEM, NAM and UN. Emeritus Senior Minister of Singapore, Mr. Goh Chok Tong visited Viet Nam on September 23-26 as the guest of honour of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung.
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Chapter Two
II. Relations with Other Partners 1. Asia - India: Viet Nam has taken initiative in increasing contacts with India’s new leaders by inviting President Mukherjee and Foreign Minister Sushma Swaraj to visit Viet Nam in August and September 2014 respectively. The strategic partnership (established in 2007) has grown steadily. The cooperation in security, defense, oil and gas has witnessed positive development with the signing of an agreement on military credits. India agreed to provide military training and continued to engage in oil
and gas exploration and exploitation in the East Sea. The Indian Jet Airways expanded connecting flights from New Delhi - Mumbai to Ho Chi Minh City (since November 5) and Viet Nam Airlines will open direct flight between New Delhi and Hanoi in 2015. In 2014, the two-way trade reached 8 billion USD (exceeding the target of 7 billion USD). A target of 10 billion USD is set for 2015. By the end of 2014, India had 85 investment projects in Viet Nam with the total of registered capital of 258.36 million USD (ranking 32nd amongst countries
Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on his official visit to India (October 27-28, 2014)
27
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
and territories investing in Viet Nam). During the working visit of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung to India on October 27-28, the two sides agreed to “develop a comprehensive strategic partnership� and signed 14 important agreements. They also committed to striving for a bilateral trade volume of 15 billion USD in 2020, strengthening defense cooperation between the military forces, exchanging visits of naval vessels; training, improving the capacity and cooperation at regional forums, including the Mine Action Programme for humanitarian purposes. Viet Nam and India agreed to contribute to the maintenance of peace, stability, development and prosperity in Asia and around the world, calling on parties concerned to exercise self-
restraint without threatening the freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea. - Korea: The strategic partnership has been deepened in all aspects. Most notably is the State visit of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong to Korea from October 1-4, the visit of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on the occasion of the 25th ASEANROK Commemorative Summit on December 10-12. Economic cooperation was extensively expanded. During the visit of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, the two countries signed 4 agreements to enhance cooperation in economic, financial, infrastructure development and defense areas; Eximbank of Korea committed to provide a preferential
General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong on his State visit to Korea (October 1-4, 2014)
28
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
credit of 12 billion USD. By the end of 2014, Korea was the biggest foreign investor in Viet Nam with 4,110 effective FDI projects worth roughly 37.23 billion USD in registered capital; the second largest bilateral ODA donor with a commitment of 1.2 billion USD for the period of 2012-2015; the third largest trading partner of Viet Nam with two-way trade volume reaching 28 billion USD in 2014. The two sides concluded FTA negotiation in December 2014 and will sign the FTA in early 2015, boosting bilateral trade to 70 billion USD in 2020. Cooperation in tourism, labor, education and training was flourishing: 850,000 Koreans visited Viet Nam in 2014; approximately 123,000 Vietnamese are living, working and studying in
Chapter Two
Korea, while there are around 130,000 Koreans living in Viet Nam. - Japan: The relations between the two countries have reached a new height since the State visit of President Truong Tan Sang on March 16-19. The two sides decided to upgrade the relations to “an extensive strategic partnership for peace and prosperity of Asia”. Japan pledged to support Viet Nam in developing large-scale projects such as North - South Expressway, North - South Express Railway, Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Industrial Zone, Lach Huyen Port, and others. Japan is also committed to assisting Viet Nam with industrialization and modernization. The Steering Committee for Viet Nam’s industrialization was established under the framework of Viet Nam -
President Truong Tan Sang’s State visit to Japan (March 16-19, 2014)
29
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
Japan cooperation towards 2020, vision 2030. Japan is committed to supporting Viet Nam in science - technology, sharing experiences in agricultural and rural development. Comprehensive cooperation in agriculture has also been planned. Bilateral cooperation in various fields has grown substantially. Japan continued to be one of the leading development partners of Viet Nam. In 2014, Japan’s investment was 2.05 billion USD (accounting for 10.1% of total investment in Viet Nam). By December 20, 2014, Japan was the second largest investor with total registered capital of 36.89 billion USD with 2,477 effective projects. Japan has been the largest ODA provider: in the period of 1993 - September 2014, Japan’s committed ODA was 22.5 billion USD, accounting for 30% of total international ODA commitment in Viet Nam. Japan’s ODA commitment to Viet Nam in 2014 was 112 billion Yen (equivalent to 927 million USD). Japan is the fourth largest trading partner and second largest export market of Viet Nam. In 2014, two-way trade reached 27.612 billion USD, 9.7% higher than 2013. The two countries agreed to double the two-way trade by 2020 (compared with 2014). Japanese businesses have strong interests in Viet Nam’s market and will increase investment on a longer-term basis. Other fields of cooperation include labor, tourism, and cooperation at local level. The two countries share similar 30
views on international and regional issues. During the visit of President Truong Tan Sang, the two sides have reaffirmed that peace and stability at sea are the common interest of both countries as well as the international community. They agreed that all parties concerned should comply with international laws, especially the UNCLOS 1982. They highlighted the importance of maintaining maritime security and safety; and freedom of navigation and overflight in international waters and freedom of unimpeded trade. Parties concerned should exercise self-restraint and resolve disputes by peaceful means in accordance with the widely recognized principles of international laws and the COC should be concluded in the earliest. 2. Europe - Russian Federation: Strategic comprehensive partnership has been promoted. Examples of this include the deepening of cooperation in various fields, the regular exchange of visits at all levels and the promotion of dialogue. This has taken place in the context that the Russian Federation has an increasing need to strengthen ties with Asia. The official visit to the Russian Federation of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong (November 23-26) was a great success with many agreements signed. Both sides highlighted the importance of
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Chapter Two
General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong on his official visit to the Russian Federation (November 23-26, 2014)
high-level political dialogues and reaffirmed their determination to maintain this mechanism. Both sides expressed hopes to further strengthen the cooperation between parties, parliaments, ministries, localities and peoples. They had extensive talks on major orientations, as well as ways and means to uplift bilateral cooperation in various areas to the same par with potentials and fine political relations between the two countries. They agreed to cooperate closely and effectively at multilateral fora. The 7th Viet Nam - Russia Strategic Dialogue on Diplomacy - Defense - Security was
held on November 15. The two parties worked hard on the implementation of 12 large investment projects, including key projects in the fields of defense, nuclear power, oil and gas. On December 15, the two sides signed the joint declaration to conclude negotiations for FTA between Viet Nam and Eurasian Economic Union. The Russian Federation continues to attach importance to the cooperation with Viet Nam and is willing to increase imports from Viet Nam, especially agricultural and forestry products. The two-way trade in 2014 reached 2.55 billion USD; the two countries set a goal of 5 billion 31
Chapter Two
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
USD in 2015 and 10 billion USD in 2020. The number of Russian visitors to Viet Nam has increased sharply in recent years, reaching 364,000 in 2014, an 8% increase from the 2013’s figure of 300,000. Regarding the territorial disputes in the Asia-Pacific region, the two sides stressed the importance of resolving disputes by peaceful means, without the use of force or threat thereof, on the basis of international laws, including the UNCLOS 1982. They also supported the full and effective implementation of the DOC and early conclusion of the COC. - European Union (EU): The Viet Nam - EU relations continue to grow in breadth and depth. Trade is the main pillar in this bilateral relationship. The EU is currently the second largest trade partner and largest export market of Viet Nam. By the end of 2014, 23 among 28 EU member states made investment in Viet Nam with over 2,103 effective projects and a total registered capital of 37.08 billion USD. Two-way trade value between Viet Nam and EU reached 36.8 billion USD in 2014. The EC has granted Viet Nam with a 400-million-euro non-refundable aid (approximately 500 million USD) for the period between 2014 and 2020 with priority given to sustainable energy and institutional building. High-level visits and contacts are maintained and enhanced: Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh met the High Representative of the EU for Foreign 32
Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton on the sideline of WEF Davos in January 2014; EU Trade Commissioner Karel De Gucht visited Viet Nam in March 2014; Chief Operating Officer of the European External Action Service David O’Sullivan visited Viet Nam and co-chaired the third Viet Nam EU deputy-ministerial-level political consultation and the ninth Viet Nam EU Joint Committee in March 2014; Vice President of the European Commission Catherine Ashton had the first official visit to Viet Nam in August 2014; EC President José Manuel Barroso paid the second official visit to Viet Nam in August 2014 and Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung had an official visit to the EU in October 2014. The EU highly values the constructive and active role of Viet Nam in peacefully settling disputes in the East Sea, re-affirms its support for peaceful resolution of disputes in accordance with international laws and the UNCLOS 1982, and calls upon all parties concerned to fully comply with the DOC and work towards an early conclusion of the COC. In 2014, Viet Nam and EU conducted 5 rounds of FTA negotiation. During Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s visit to the EU on October 13, both sides declared to soon conclude negotiation on a modern, comprehensive and balanced agreement as a mean to further consolidate the bond between the EU and Southeast Asia.
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
+ The Viet Nam - UK relations continued to flourish. Both sides have actively implemented the Annual Action Plan in seven prioritized fields, especially political, diplomatic, trade, investment, education and training areas, and maintained the exchange of visits and contacts at all levels. Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh visited the UK in April 2014; Deputy Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son visited Scotland in June 2014; former UK Prime Minister Tony Blair paid two visits to Viet Nam in July then November 2014; and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh met UK Foreign Minister on the sideline of ASEM 10 in October 2014. Cooperation in education - training and defense security is promoted, especially at the beginning of 2014, both countries established the Viet Nam - UK Research Institute in Da Nang (as the first phase in the project to open the Viet Nam UK University). + Relations with Denmark and the Netherlands: Viet Nam has developed and signed the Viet Nam - Denmark Action Plan for 2014-2015 period to implement the Joint Statement on Viet Nam - Denmark Comprehensive Partnership signed during the State visit to Denmark by President Truong Tan Sang in September 2013. In addition, Viet Nam has also established the Strategic Partnership on Agriculture and Food Security with the Netherlands.
Chapter Two
+ Viet Nam - Germany relations continued to enjoy strong development in various areas, especially in political and diplomatic aspects. Both sides maintained the exchange of highlevel visits and contacts on a regular basis. This can be shown through the official visit by Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung to Germany on October 14 to 15, his meeting with Chancellor Angela Markel on the sideline of the 2014 Nuclear Security Summit in the Netherlands in March; German Vice Chancellor, Federal Minister of Economic Affairs and Energy Sigmar Gabriel visited Viet Nam and chaired the fourteenth Asia-Pacific Conference of German Business (APK) in Ho Chi Minh City from November 19 to 22 with the participation of over 700 German companies. The second Viet Nam - German Strategic Management Group between two deputy foreign ministers also took place in June 2014. Both sides have actively accelerated the implementation of key projects in the Viet Nam - German Strategic Plan of Action such as the German House, Metro Line 2 and Viet Nam - German University in Ho Chi Minh City. + Viet Nam - Italy relations continued to witness strong development in political, diplomatic, trade, investment, development cooperation, education and training, security and defense areas. Prime Minister Matteo Renzi’s visit to Viet Nam was the first visit by an Italian Prime Minister since 1973 when two 33
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
countries established diplomatic relations. Both sides have effectively implemented the 2013-2014 Action Plan in the priority areas, especially the convening of Strategic Dialogues at Deputy Foreign Ministerial Level (the second meeting took place in Rome in September 2014), the first Defense Policy Dialogue at Deputy Defense Ministerial Level and meeting of the Joint Committee on Economic Cooperation in November 2014. + Viet Nam - France relations were fostered through active discussions to conclude the Plan of Action to implement the Joint Statement on Strategic Partnership and the increased exchange of visits and contacts at all levels, between ministries and provinces. Most notably were visits to France by Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Tuan Anh (February 2014), by Minister of Justice Ha Hung Cuong (February 2014), by Minister of Planning and Investment Bui Quang Vinh (April 2014), by Minister of Information and Communication Nguyen Bac Son (April 2014), by Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan (June 2014), by Politburo Member, Secretariat Standing Member of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Le Hong Anh (October 2014), by Minister of Public Security Tran Dai Quang (November 2014) and by Prime Minister’s Special Envoy on the East Sea - Deputy Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son (July 2014), etc. Both sides successfully 34
organized the Viet Nam Year in Paris on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations and upgraded annual dialogue on economic affairs to the ministerial level between the two Ministers of Planning and Investment (April 2014). 3. Americas The United States: The comprehensive partnership between the two countries (established in July 2013) witnesses positive development in various areas with increased mutual trust. Bilateral trade reached 34.94 billion USD in 2014. The US ranks the 7th investor in Viet Nam with 699 projects (nearly 10.7 billion USD, excluding the projects invested through third countries). The US is also the 9th largest investment market out of 63 countries and territories for Vietnamese companies with 120 projects worth 424 million USD of registered capital. US companies have had more interests in the market and business opportunities in Viet Nam. Political, diplomatic, defense and security dialogue mechanisms have contributed to increasing mutual trust between the two countries. The exchange of delegations increased sharply at all levels, either between governments, parliaments or parties. President Truong Tan Sang and President Barrack Obama met on the sideline of APEC Summit in Beijing in November 2014. In the same month, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and President Obama met and discussed
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
Chapter Two
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh on his visit to the US (October 1-3, 2014)
matters of mutual concern on the sideline of the East Asia Summit in Myanmar. In addition, there were also visits by Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh to the US from September 12-21, Defense Minister Phung Quang Thanh to attend the US ASEAN Defense Minister Meeting in April 2014, Secretary of Hanoi Municipal Party Committee Pham Quang Nghi from July 18-29 and Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh in October 2014. On the US side, President of the US Senate Patrick Leahy and US Secretary of Commerce Penny
Pritzker visited Viet Nam in April and June respectively. Cooperation in security, defense, humanitarian aid, disaster preparedness, search and rescue operations, economic, trade, education, science and technology also witnessed remarkable development. The Agreement on the Peaceful Use of Nuclear Energy (Agreement 123) came into effect on October 3, 2014. Viet Nam announced its participation in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) and efforts to work with the US in accelerating the negotiation of TPP. The US decided to partially lift its ban on lethal weapon sales to Viet Nam 35
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
and considered transfer of equipment ensuring maritime security for Viet Nam. The US also expressed its position to protest against acts escalating tension and threatening peace and stability in the region. It also supported peaceful settlement of disputes without resorting to the use or threat of force on the basis of international law, including the UNCLOS 1982. The two countries are working together to prepare for the 20th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2015. - Latin American countries: The relations between Viet Nam and Latin American countries continued to enjoy stable growth in political, economic, trade, telecommunication, oil and gas areas. Countries in Latin America actively supported Viet Nam at the UN, Human Rights Council, UNESCO, etc. 4. Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa Viet Nam’s relations with traditional friends and potential partners in Central and Eastern Europe, Central Asia, Middle East and Africa continued to be consolidated. Economic, trade, education - training and labour cooperation between Viet Nam and these countries has been significantly fostered. The relationship between Viet Nam and Central and Eastern European countries was promoted through the exchange of visits and contacts at all levels and through collaboration in international 36
organizations. For example, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung met leaders of Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria and Slovenia on the sideline of ASEM 10 in Italy on October 16-17; Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh met with Hungarian and Romanian Foreign Ministers on the sideline of AEMM-2 in Brussels on July 23 and met with Bulgarian and Macedonian Foreign Ministers on the sideline of the 69th UN General Assembly on September 25. Romania, Poland and Slovakia have already ratified the Viet Nam - EU Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA). All these countries expressed their understanding and supported the EU’s common stance on peace and security in the East Sea. A number of Vietnamese telecommunication and oil and gas companies continued to have a firm position and expand their market in Africa. The political bonds between Viet Nam and countries in this region remained stable. Most African countries showed their active support for Viet Nam at the UN, Human Rights Council, UNESCO, etc. 5. Oceania The Viet Nam - Australia Comprehensive Partnership enjoyed excellent growth in 2014. Both countries hoped to upgrade bilateral relations to a higher level by revising and deepening the comprehensive partnership, which was established
Bilateral Diplomatic Relations
in 2009. Both sides maintained the regular exchange of high-level delegations and contacts at multilateral forums. Many Vietnamese delegations have visited Australia, such as the visits by Minister of Justice in April 2014, by the President of the Supreme People’s Procuracy in July 2014 and by the Chief of the Armed Forces in November 2014. Viet Nam also welcomed Australian delegation led by Foreign Minister Julie Bishop in February, followed by visit by Speaker of the House of Representatives Brownyn Bishop in September. President Truong Tan Sang met with Australian Prime Minister on the sideline of APEC 22 in Beijing in November 2014 and Prime Minister Tony Abbott met with Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung on the sideline of the East Asia Summit in Myanmar in the same month. Economic cooperation, trade and investment between the two countries also enjoyed remarkable growth. Australia is the 8th largest trade partner of Viet Nam with two-way trade turnover for the first 10 months
Chapter Two
of 2014 amounting to 4.6 billion USD, a 24.7% increase compared to the same period of 2013. In 2014, Australia had 24 new projects in Viet Nam and the investment for 6 existing projects was increased to 142.84 million USD. At present, Australia has 319 projects in effect in Viet Nam with the total capital of 1.65 billion USD, ranking the 19th largest investor among 101 countries and territories having investment in Viet Nam. ODA cooperation has resulted in positive outcomes. For the 2013-2014 fiscal year, the total ODA committed by Australia for Viet Nam was 138.9 million AUD and expected to increase to 141.3 million AUD as planned for 2014-2015. Australia provided a non-refundable aid package for the building of My Thuan and Cao Lanh bridges in Viet Nam. Cooperation in security, defense, science - technology and education training continued to grow. The two countries enjoyed excellent cooperation at regional and international forums such as ASEAN, EAS, APEC, UN, etc.
37
Chapter Three
MULTILATERAL DIPLOMACY AND INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION ON ENSURING HUMAN RIGHTS
I. Diplomatic Activities at the United Nations and International Organizations Intense activities of multilateral
Council (UNHRC), thus contributing
diplomacy at international forums by
to maintaining peace and stability
Vietnamese high-level leaders have
as well as promoting dialogue and
contributed to further consolidating
cooperation. For the first time, Viet
and deepening bilateral relations, and
Nam was elected as the Chair of the
enhancing Viet Nam’s profile as a
IAEA’s Board of Governors for the
responsible member of the international
2013-2014
community. Such activities have also allowed Viet Nam to increase its external communications and win international support on the issues of peace, stability, maritime security and safety, freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea and Asia - Pacific. - As a responsible member, Viet Nam has actively participated in the work of regional and international organizations; strongly implemented policies on extensive international integration;
38
proposed
tenure,
participated
in
the UN Peace-keeping Operations, took part in the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI), which demonstrates Viet Nam’s responsibility for building trust and maintaining peace, stability in the region. In the implementation of Viet Nam’s commitments to promoting world peace and security, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the 3rd Nuclear Security Summit in the Netherlands on March 24-25. Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung pointed
initiatives
out clearly Viet Nam’s consistent
and closely coordinated with other
position on the use of nuclear energy for
countries at the UN forums, NAM,
peaceful purposes that ensure nuclear
WTO, Francophonie, APEC, ASEM,
safety and security, and pledged to
ASEAN, the Nuclear Security Summit
continue working with other countries
(NSS), CICA, the UN Human Rights
for nuclear security worldwide.
Multilateral Diplomacy and International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights
- Given increasingly extensive international integration, in order to increase the effectiveness of multilateral diplomacy, Viet Nam chaired a session at the UN Commission of Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice in May 2014. On August 12-13, Viet Nam, in coordination with the UN, organized the “Conference on Multilateral Diplomacy and Policy Recommendations for Viet Nam” in Hanoi. Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the event and delivered his key-note speech. The conference ended with important outcomes: (i) setting forth a guideline on “elevating multilateral diplomacy”, which is a significant part of extensive international integration in the new
Chapter Three
phase; (ii) improving awareness from central to local levels, and among ministries, agencies and departments, on the importance of multilateral diplomacy; (iii) taking advantage of international support and sharing international experience for Viet Nam’s multilateral diplomacy in the new phase: (iv) introducing tangible directions and measures in order to elevate multilateral diplomacy, especially to contribute to the development of foreign policy in important documents of the Communist Party and State of Viet Nam; and proposing major focuses for multilateral diplomacy by 2020 and long-term orientations for Viet Nam’s multilateral diplomacy.
Ministry of Foreign Affairs hosted the Conference on Multilateral Diplomacy in the 21st century and Policy Recommendations for Viet Nam in Hanoi (August 12-13, 2014)
39
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
II. Diplomatic Activities at Regional Mechanisms In
2014,
Viet
its
non-use of force or threat to use force,
imprints with active and impressive
observe international law, particularly
contributions
the UNCLOS 1982, fully implement
at
Nam various
left
regional
multilateral forums.
the DOC and soon conclude the COC.
- ASEAN: On politics and security,
On the economic front, Viet Nam
Viet Nam has actively participated
is one of the three nations with the
in implementing the Blueprint in 14
best performance in implementing
priority areas; hosted four important
the ASEAN Economic Community
action lines; realized the initiative on
(AEC) (84.5%) and actively worked
the establishment of hotlines between
with
ASEAN Defense Ministers; took part
actualize the priority list in 2014.
in various cooperation activities in the
Moving towards enhanced facilitation
fight against terrorism and transnational
for trade, investment and services
crimes,
consular
within ASEAN, Viet Nam is among
cooperation. Viet Nam successfully
the leading countries to realize its
hosted the ASEAN Maritime Forum
commitments on tariff reduction. Viet
(AMF) and the Expanded ASEAN
Nam reduced import duties to 0-5%
Maritime Forum (EAMF) in August
for the majority of conventional tariff
2014, actively supported efforts to
lines in compliance with the ASEAN
safeguard peace, stability, maritime
Agreement on Trade in Goods; and
security and safety, as well as freedom
continued fulfilling its commitments
of navigation in the region.
on tariff removal for products in the
immigration
and
Viet Nam has worked with other
40
other ASEAN
members
to
priority list.
nations in building a shared position on
Viet Nam has also made active
the East Sea. For the first time in nearly
contributions to further intensifying
20 years, ASEAN has announced a
economic cooperation with its partners,
standalone ASEAN Foreign Ministers’
participated in the negotiation and
Statement on the East Sea, expressing
conclusion of trade, services and
deep concerns; stressing the importance
investment agreements with partners
of maintaining peace, maritime security
such as China, Japan, the Republic of
and safety, freedom of navigation in
Korea, India, Australia, New Zealand,
the East Sea; calling upon the parties
and Hong Kong; engaged in the
concerned to exercise self-restraint,
negotiation process of the Regional
resolve disputes by peaceful means,
Comprehensive Economic Partnership
Multilateral Diplomacy and International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights
(RCEP); and chaired the ASEAN Investment Group in investment negotiation. On cultural and social affairs, Viet Nam has proposed initiatives to enhance social security services for disadvantaged groups; promote and protect the rights of migrant workers; strengthen cooperation in response to non-traditional challenges such as natural disaster and climate change. Viet Nam successfully hosted the 6th Meeting of the ASEAN Ministers Responsible for Culture and Arts (AMCA) in April 2014; the 12th ASEAN
Chapter Three
Health Ministers Meeting (AHMM) and related meetings in September 2014; the mid-term conference to review the implementation of the 20102015 programs by the ASEAN Labor Ministers; and the 10th ASEAN Skill Competition in October 2014. Viet Nam continued to contribute to further expanding and deepening relations between ASEAN and its partners, upholding ASEAN’s centrality in the region. Viet Nam proposed the initiative and successfully hosted the special SOM on ASEAN’s centrality and strategic orientations
Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung at the ASEAN Summit and related meetings in Myanmar (November 12, 2014)
41
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
for future regional architecture in June 2014. As coordinator of the ASEAN EU relations (July 2012 - July 2015), Viet Nam actively contributed to strengthening the comprehensive cooperation between the two regions, putting forward major directions for future cooperation, including the orientation for the strategic partnership; fostering cooperation in maritime security and connectivity; resuming the ASEAN - EU FTA after 2015. The EU has pledged to double its ODA for Viet Nam. Viet Nam has intensified communications on the ASEAN Community through various activities such as organizing communication events and the ASEAN Week, maintaining a website about ASEAN and Viet Nam’s participation in the association; providing publications on ASEAN and Viet Nam’s participation in ASEAN, setting up an immigration check-point reserved for ASEAN citizens at international airports in Viet Nam, organizing the annual ASEAN Stamp Design Competition, and the ASEAN Quiz. - APEC: From November 9-11, 2014, President Truong Tan Sang attended the 22nd APEC in China under the theme “Shaping the Future through Asia-Pacific Partnership”, where he joined other leaders in discussing connectivity, FTAAP formation, new economic and trade 42
cooperation mechanisms; adopting 15 documents including two APEC Leaders’ Statements, and celebrating the 25th anniversary of APEC. During the three days of the 22nd APEC Summit, President Sang had a number of bilateral and multilateral meetings; attended the 9th dialogue of APEC CEO Summit on “Strengthening regional connectivity: Investment, Infrastructure and Policy Priorities”; attended the dialogue of APEC Business Advisory Council (ABAC); attended the 1st Retreat on “Strengthening Regional Economic Integration”; participated in the discussions on “strengthening comprehensive connectivity and infrastructure development”; attended the 2nd Retreat on “Innovative Development, Economic Reform and Growth”; met with APEC Leaders, and attended the TPP talks. At the 22nd APEC Summit, Viet Nam made active contributions to all major issues and proposals on combining economic reform, growth and integration with sustainable development, MDGs and the post-2015 Development Agenda as well as measures to respond to global challenges, namely food security, water security, natural disaster adaptation, search and rescue. Viet Nam put forth nine initiatives that were all approved then, and became one of the pioneers with 80 initiatives that have been carried out in almost all cooperation areas of APEC.
Multilateral Diplomacy and International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights
- Viet Nam continued to actively promote the Greater Mekong Subregion
and
International
Mekong
River Commission cooperation. On April 5, 2014, Viet Nam hosted the 2nd Summit of the International Mekong River Commission under the theme “Water, energy and food security in the context of climate change in the Mekong River Basin” in Ho Chi Minh City.
Participants
were
high-level
delegations from member countries (Cambodia, Laos, Thailand and Viet Nam) and two dialogue partners (China and Myanmar) as well as a number
of
development
partners
and observers. The summit adopted the Ho Chi Minh City Declaration, reiterating solidarity among members and commitment to implement the 1995 Mekong Agreement, the Hua Hin Declaration of the first summit (2001) and regulations and procedures of the Commission. In his remarks, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung expressed confidence that cooperation and dialogue would contribute to effectively addressing the water energy - food security challenges, ensuring the legitimate interests of the peoples in the Mekong basin for economic development, social security and environmental protection. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung also led the Vietnamese delegation to attend the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting
Chapter Three
(ASEM 10, Italy, October 2014) under the theme “Responsible partners for sustainable growth and security.” The Vietnamese delegation made substantive contributions to the common interests of ASEM; promoted Viet Nam’s security and development interests. Head of the Vietnamese delegation had 21 bilateral meetings and talks, contributing to deepening relations with many European partners and key partners in Asia, forging a new status for Viet Nam. Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung was invited to address the 14th Asia - Europe Business Forum. On behalf of ASEAN, Prime Minister Dung made a keynote speech at the plenary session on “EuropeAsia partnership in addressing global matters in an inter-connected world,” putting forward three new initiatives on strengthening Mekong Danube cooperation in sustainable water resources management, youth exchanges for addressing poverty challenges and training of green skills for sustainable development, cosponsoring the initiative of Italy - the host country - on promoting jobs for Asian and European youth, optimising the support from the EU, Italy and working effectively with ASEAN members to promote ASEM’s emphasis on “the importance of maintaining peace, security and stability” and “resolving disputes by peaceful means in line with international law.” 43
Chapter Three
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
Viet Nam also made the best of its role as the coordinator for ASEAN EU
relations
through
initiating
and pioneering in the successful organization of the first ever informal ASEAN-EU summit on the sideline of the 10th ASEM to find measures on
elevating the ASEAN-EU relations in general and ASEAN-EU within the ASEM framework, particularly the common aspiration of both sides to move forward to strategic partnership and resume the ASEAN-EU FTA negotiation at an early date after 2015.
III. International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights Viet Nam reaffirms its consistent policy on protecting and promoting human rights, considering human rights both the goals and momentum for development. This policy not only reflects the desire of the people and the nation’s history and traditions but also correlates with the universal aspirations and values of the mankind. On the basis of this policy, Viet Nam has made significant efforts to protect and promote human rights, translating those into concrete terms in the laws, policies and the reality of development achievements. The year of 2014 continued to witness the international community’s recognition of Viet Nam’s progresses in the protection and promotion of human rights in all political, economic, social, cultural and educational areas as well as in freedom of belief and religion. According to ESCAP, Viet Nam has completed about 90% of the United Nations Millennium Development Goals, fulfilling ahead of schedule 5 out of 8 goals, and is likely to achieve the remaining goals in 2015. 44
On February 5, 2014, at the Human Rights Council (Switzerland), Viet Nam submitted and held dialogues on Viet Nam’s second-cycle UPR national report on human rights protection since 2009. The report highlighted Viet Nam’s consistent policy, efforts and remarkable progresses on protecting and promoting human rights in all economic, social, cultural, civil and political domains. It also emphasized that Viet Nam has implemented in a serious, positive and effective manner the 96 recommendations accepted in the first cycle and the policy on strengthening international cooperation on human rights. Viet Nam’s second-cycle review received a great amount of interest with 106 countries registering to comment, recognizing and highly valuing Viet Nam’s policies, efforts and progresses in protecting and promoting human rights since 2009 through implementation of UPR recommendations, particularly those related to economic, social, cultural rights, and ensuring social welfare,
Multilateral Diplomacy and International Cooperation on Ensuring Human Rights
poverty alleviation and the rights of vulnerable groups including women, children, persons with disability and ethnic minorities. Following the review, on June 20, 2014, the Human Rights Council adopted the UPR outcomes on Viet Nam, acknowledging Viet Nam’s acceptance of 182 recommendations out of 227 received recommendations, an equivalent to 80%. As a member state, Viet Nam has demonstrated its active and positive role and increasingly substantive contributions to the work of the United Nations Human Rights Council. In addition to the contribution as such, Viet Nam also took initiative in presenting to the international community its views, policies and progresses in the protection and promotion of human rights, particularly the rights of
Chapter Three
women, children, the elderly, persons with disability, and gender equality, economic and social rights, poverty alleviation, among other fields, showcasing the image of an active and proactive Viet Nam in international integration and facilitation of dialogues and cooperation with partner countries. Viet Nam hosted the 14th informal conference of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) on human rights focusing on the theme “Businesses and Human Rights” in Hanoi (from November 18-20) with over 120 participants from 53 member countries of ASEM representing governments, academia and NGOs. This is the first inter-regional event on human rights to be hosted by Viet Nam, particularly during Viet Nam’s membership at the United Nations Human Rights Council (2014-2016).
Viet Nam adopts the consistent policy of ensuring the exercise of human rights, democracy, freedom of religion and belief on the basis of the understanding that human rights protection and promotion in any country has to be a process and that this process in Viet Nam has been increasingly improved and gradually aligned with the United Nations Universal Declaration on Human Rights. Accordingly, human rights are universal, and attention should be paid to the specific conditions of each nation and region, particularly in terms of history, culture and religion. The 2014 new year’s message of Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung also stresses that ownership rights must go hand in hand with social responsibility and citizen responsibility, first and foremost the responsibility to comply with the law. Any restrictions to citizens’ freedom must be duly considered and aimed mainly at national defense, safeguarding national security, social order and safety and the fine cultural, historical and ethical values of the nation. All citizens are entitled to undertakings that are not prohibited by law and refer to the law to protect 45
Chapter Three
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
their lawful rights and interests. Viet Nam resolutely opposes to and rejects the inaccurate information about Viet Nam. We also stand ready to hold candid and sincere dialogues to clarify the legitimate policies and efforts to achieve progresses in democracy, human rights and freedom of religion and belief in Viet Nam.
Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh at the 25th regular session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland (March 3, 2014)
Viet Nam has successfully held the bilateral human rights dialogues with the United States (May 12), Australia (July 29) and Switzerland (August 27). Through these dialogues, Viet Nam presented its policies, laws and achievements on human rights, thus increasing the mutual understanding and respect for the country-specific aspects, creating favorable conditions for cooperation and strengthening ties on other fields. 46
On November 28, at the 8th session of the 13th National Assembly, the National Assembly of Viet Nam ratified the “Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disability” and the United Nations “Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment and Punishment.” Viet Nam has become a full member of 7 out of 9 United Nations major conventions on human rights.
Chapter Four
DIPLOMACY FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT
I. Economic Diplomacy and International Economic Integration Viet Nam has engaged actively in
also signed cooperation agreements
a wide range of activities for economic
with potential markets, including the
diplomacy and international economic
agreements in trade and aviation with
integration, which contributed to the
Middle East countries, and agriculture,
country’s economic performance.
oil and gas and telecommunication
-
External
activities
in
2014
projects in Africa and Latin America
created momentum for deepening the
in order to diversify partners and
economic ties with partners, bringing
markets.
about tangible benefits to the country’s socio-economic visits
of
development.
Vietnamese
leaders
The to
strategic partners such as the Russian
- In 2014, a further 12 countries recognized
Viet
Nam’s
market
economy status, raising the total number to 56.
Federation, Japan, the Republic of
- Viet Nam has also proposed
Korea (ROK), India, among others, have
many initiatives and made substantial
helped translate bilateral cooperation
contributions to multilateral economic
frameworks into concrete agreements,
forums such as ASEAN, APEC, ASEM,
which boosted trade, investment and
and WEF. This helped enhance the
ODA inflows and promoted multiple
international status of the country
major projects in energy, science and
and promote cooperation in the areas
technology. As far as the neighboring
of common interest, including the
and ASEAN countries are concerned,
economic
Viet Nam has worked to improve
development, bridging development
the effectiveness and efficiency of
gap, blue economy, environmental
the bilateral economic cooperation
protection
mechanisms and support Vietnamese
management. Viet Nam has been
enterprises in implementing their
working closely with other ASEAN
projects in the region. Viet Nam has
countries to accelerate the formation
field,
and
trade,
water
sustainable
resources
47
Chapter Four
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
of the ASEAN Economic Community. Much effort has been invested for more substantive and vigorous Mekong Sub-region cooperation, especially with regard to protection of water resources and connectivity among the sub-regional economies. Within the scope of this cooperation, Viet Nam also worked with the US and other parties concerned to set out prioritized activities for 2014 and collaborated with the ROK to organize the 2nd Mekong-ROK Business Forum in Hanoi (May 29-30). In addition, Viet Nam also participated actively in the Pan-Tonkin Gulf Economic Cooperation to promote development cooperation with China. - On January 23-24, Viet Nam attended the WEF Annual Meeting in Davos (Switzerland) to share its experience and vision on agriculture as well as its analysis on the relations between healthcare and development, and on investment opportunities in ASEAN. Viet Nam shared its ideas and experience with other countries with a view to building a world of sustainable development in the future. - Viet Nam has also engaged actively in various FTA negotiations to expand economic - trade relations and deepen the linkages and multifaceted cooperation with key partners. Notably, Viet Nam completed the FTA negotiations with the ROK (October 2014) and the Eurasian Economic 48
Union (December 2014) while engaging actively in the negotiations for an FTA with the EU and the TPP. - Economic diplomacy also actively supported provinces and businesses in the international economic integration efforts, including the match-making and market expansion activities. Economic diplomacy also devoted efforts to reduce protectionist measures, remove trade barriers and protect the legitimate interest of Vietnamese enterprises. Various investment and tourism promotion activities were successfully co-organized in host provinces. - A multitude of measures have been actively implemented at both central and local levels to prepare for Viet Nam’s international integration, including reviewing and amending legal documents, enhancing capacity, training officials, and raising awareness on international integration to the public and the business community. On April 23, 2014, the Government established the National Steering Committee
on
International
Integration, chaired by the Prime Minister, and issued the Government’s Action Plan (May 13, 2014) to promote the implementation and concretization of
Resolution
22-NQ/TW
on
international integration, which was adopted on April 10, 2013 by the Communist Party Politburo.
Diplomacy for National Development
Chapter Four
II. Cultural Diplomacy and External Communications - Viet Nam has reinforced the coordination
and
mechanisms
for
implementation
July 2), “Viet Nam Year in France”
Cultural
(January - September 2014), “Viet Nam
Diplomacy Strategy until 2020 in
Tourism - Culture Festival in the ROK”
order to, on one hand, promote a
(September
better understanding of Viet Nam,
“Italy - Viet Nam: Distant Colors” in
her people and her culture around
Italy (September 2014), the “Viet Nam
the globe, and on the other hand,
Cultural Space” Exhibition in Sweden
strengthen
(November 2014), inauguration of
trust,
its
Culture Day in Russia” (June 24 -
friendship
and
cooperation with other countries: have
been
hosted
the
Exhibition
the Ho Chi Minh Statue - “National
First, many cultural diplomacy activities
16-21),
Liberation Hero, Outstanding Man
by
of Culture” in Chile (July 2014), and
Vietnamese diplomatic missions in
others. In particular, for the first time
collaboration with other Vietnamese
after more than 40 years of diplomatic
agencies and the host countries’
relations, Viet Nam successfully hosted
authorities, namely the “Viet Nam
a major cultural event “Viet Nam Week
On June 25, 2014, the Trang An Landscape Complex (Ninh Binh) was listed as UNESCO World Heritage at the 38th Session of the World Heritage Committee in Qatar
49
Chapter Four
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
in the Netherlands” (September 23-26).
Singing”
The success of “Viet Nam Days in
Heritage (November 2014) for having
Qatar and the UAE” (December 12-17)
met all the five UNESCO’s criteria.
also helped foster the friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and the Middle East, opening up opportunities to access the regional markets and attract more investment into Viet Nam. Second, Viet Nam’s heritages were newly recognized by UNESCO for several heritages, notably the “Trang An Landscape Complex” as World
as
UNESCO
Intangible
These recognitions have illustrated the country’s time-honored traditions and cultural diversity and identity. They also represent Viet Nam’s contributions to the heritage treasure of humankind. Third,
Viet
Nam
has
made
significant contributions as a member of the World Heritage Committee for
Cultural and Natural Heritage (June
2013-2017 tenure, the Vice Chair of
2014), the “Nghe Tinh Vi Giam Folk
the
Intergovernmental
Committee
On July 30, 2014, the State Archive and Database Bureau (Ministry of Home Affairs) received the Documentary Heritage of the Memories of the World Program, Asia-Pacific region, of UNESCO, awarded to the Nguyen Dynasty Wood blocks
50
Chapter Four
Diplomacy for National Development
of Convention 2005, Vice Chair of
conducted using close collaboration
the Memories of the World Program
mechanisms between the Ministry of
Committee for Asia-Pacific. At the
Foreign Affairs and various agencies
same time, Viet Nam assumed the co-
of the Communist Party, the National
chair of the Culture, Sports, Gender
Assembly, as well as other ministries,
and Youth Group of the East Asia Latin America Forum for 2013-2015. It also participated actively in different cultural programs and initiatives at international forums such as ASEAN, ASEM, and the Alliance of Civilizations. These activities showed Viet Nam’s enhanced capacity and contribution to the world in this regard. They have also raised international support and assistance for the country. - The external communications have been effectively conducted to promote a peaceful, dynamic, stable and democratic Viet Nam engaging actively in international integration. It has also contributed to maintaining a peaceful environment and protecting the independence, sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity of Viet Nam, especially Viet Nam’s sovereignty
agencies, localities and the Vietnamese press and media. Through different channels, these efforts provided a large and diverse amount of information to friends and the public around the world, covering the following topics: (i) the foreign policy of openness, diversification and multilateralization of
external
relations,
and
active
international integration in accordance with Resolution 22-NQ/TW of the Communist
Party
Politburo;
(ii)
updates on external activities of leaders of the Communist Party and State as well as major national events; (iii) information on all aspects of Viet Nam in several languages, as well as on citizen protection, and rebut biased information. External communications also spelled out Viet Nam’s position regarding the East Sea issue and the maintenance of peace, stability,
and sovereign rights in the East Sea.
freedom of navigation, and maritime
External communications, furthermore,
security and safety in the region, as
have promoted the friendship and
well as Viet Nam’s stance that all
cooperation of Viet Nam with other
disputes must be settled by peaceful
countries and helped secure their
means on the basis of international law,
support to the policy of the Communist
including the UNCLOS 1982 without
Party and State of Viet Nam. Most notably, the external communications have been actively
the use or threat of force and in strict compliance with the DOC and that the COC should be soon concluded. 51
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
III. Overseas Vietnamese Affairs and the Protection of Vietnamese Citizens and Entities Abroad The overseas Vietnamese affairs were actively carried out in order to maximize the synergy of the nation and the national solidarity for national defense and development. The Review Conference on the 10-year implementation of Resolution 36NQ/TW dated March 26, 2004 of the Communist Party Politburo on the Overseas Vietnamese Affairs was a key milestone that defined the ways and means to improve this work in the new stage. The National Assembly’s adoption of the amended Law on Citizenship, which took effect on June 26, 2014, has lived up to the expectations of overseas Vietnamese, thus facilitating their life abroad and encouraging them to turn toward the homeland. Remittance in 2014 reached 12 billion USD compared to 11 billion USD in 2013. In 2014, more than 3,600 firms owned by overseas Vietnamese invested approximately 8.6 billion USD in projects in 51 out of 63 provinces and cities across the country. Many charity and humanitarian activities have received contributions from the overseas Vietnamese. They also launched activities to participate in the struggle to safeguard the sovereignty, sovereign and jurisdictional rights
52
of Viet Nam in the East Sea, and provided support and assistance to the Vietnamese coast guard and fishermen who continued their work to harness resources in the Vietnamese waters. The protection of Vietnamese citizens and entities abroad has been effectively conducted to defend the rights of Vietnamese fishermen in the East Sea as well as those of Vietnamese people and firms who are living, travelling and doing business overseas. In 2014, Viet Nam carried out various activities to protect vessels and crewmen detained by foreign authorities. 39 cases, involving 78 vessels and 714 fishermen were resolved in collaboration with the host authorities. The Fund for Protection of Vietnamese Citizen and Entity Abroad was used to cover travel expenses for repatriating 390 fishermen who were either deported or released by the host authorities after having served their sentences overseas. Support was provided to evacuate the Vietnamese community out of the conflict zone in Ukraine and help them settle their life. Likewise, 1,758 Vietnamese workers were evacuated out of conflict zones in Libya and provided with assistance for reintegration in Viet Nam.
Chapter Five
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS OF THE COMMUNIST PARTY AND THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY, AND PEOPLE’S DIPLOMACY
I
n 2014, despite rapid and complex developments in international and regional affairs, particularly tensions in the East Sea, the external relations of Viet Nam continued to be promoted in an active, consistent and comprehensive manner in all three channels of Party-to-Party, State-toState and people’s diplomacy, creating
glorious victories in maintaining a peaceful and stable international environment conducive to national development while safeguarding national independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity, raising the stature and strength of Viet Nam on the path of reform and international integration.
I. External Affairs of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Pursuing the policy line set at the 11th
has entertained relations with 210
Party Congress and Conclusion No.73
parties in 108 countries, including
of the Communist Party Politburo of
nearly 100 communist and workers’
the 11th Tenure on “Intensifying the
parties, 56 ruling parties and nearly
Party-to-Party external affairs in the
80 parties having seats in parliaments,
new context”, the external relations
governments or local administrations.
of the Communist Party of Viet Nam
The high-level external activities of the
continued to be promoted in an active
Communist Party and its commissions’
and diverse manner, focusing on
leaders
relations with ruling and coalition
leaving many important imprints. Visits
parties; consolidating relations with
by General Secretary Nguyen Phu
communist, workers’ and left-wing
Trong to the Republic of Korea, Russia,
parties;
in
and Belarus further consolidated and
political
deepened the relations with these
parties. As of August 2014, the
important partners. The visit to China
Communist
by Standing Member of the Communist
actively
multilateral
participating
forums Party
of of
Viet
Nam
were
undertaken
effectively,
53
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
Party Central Committee’s Secretariat Le Hong Anh, the visit to the United States by Member of the Communist Party Politburo, Secretary of Hanoi Municipal Party Committee Pham Quang Nghi and other high-level working visits helped strengthen the relations between the Communist Party of Viet Nam and other political parties, laying the political foundation for promoting cooperation between states. The Communist Party of Viet Nam leaders received many leaders from other countries, hence contributing to the consolidation of friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and other countries in the world. Relations with communist and ruling parties in socialist and neighboring countries were consolidated and promoted. Mechanisms for meetings and contacts between party leaders at all levels, seminars on theoretical aspects and close coordination and exchanges on strategic issues with the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party and the Cambodian People’s Party were well maintained. The relations with the Chinese Communist Party were maintained. During the hard times in bilateral relations, the Communist Party of Viet Nam’s external activities served as “the bridge” to maintain bilateral ties while actively participating in efforts to struggle and rally forces for resolving differences, easing tensions, and promoting the sound development of bilateral ties in the right direction. 54
Relations with ruling parties, coalition parties in many important partner countries were actively promoted and broadened with new breakthroughs. The Chairman of the Commission for Foreign Relations of the Party Central Committee attended the 35th Anniversary of the Sandino Victory (Nicaragua) and paid a working visit to the Republic of Dominica; senior-officials of the Commission for Foreign Relations of the Party Central Committee paid a working visit to Egypt, Israel, Palestine, and Malaysia; attended a seminar of the National Congress of India, the seminar and the annual Congress of the United Malaysian National Organization (UMNO). The Communist Party of Viet Nam hosted delegations of the Revolutionary Party of Tanzania (CCM), of the Party of Progress and Socialism of Morocco, the Palestinian National Liberation Movement (FATAH), the Ethiopian People’s Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF); signed cooperation agreements with the New World Party (ROK), the UMNO Party and the Office of the President of Belarus. Relations with communist, workers’ and left-wing parties around the world were maintained and consolidated. The Communist Party of Viet Nam continued to pursue the policy of maintaining and consolidating the relations with the Communist Party of the United States (CPUSA) (attended the 30th National Congress of the CPUSA); hosting the delegations of the Communist Party of
External Affairs of the Communist Party and the National Assembly, and People’s Diplomacy
France, the Communist Party of Japan, the United Left-wing Movement Party (Dominican Republic), the Labor Party (Mexico), the Communist Party of the Russian Federation, the Workers’ Party of Bangladesh, the Communist Party of India, etc. Actively participate in and effectively contribute to multilateral forums of political parties, notably: the 8th International Conference of Asian Political Parties (ICAPP), the 20th Sao Paulo Forum, the 8th International
Chapter Five
Conference “Parties and a New Society” in Mexico, etc., hence promoting information exchange and experience sharing, and enhancing relations with communist, workers’ and left-wing parties in the world; actively provide information on Viet Nam’s socioeconomic development and foreign policy, regularly update information and rally the support of international friends on issues of strategic importance, particularly during the incidence of the Hai Yang - 981 oil rig.
II. The National Assembly’s External Affairs The external affairs of the National Assembly in 2014 were implemented in an extensive, focused and efficient manner, contributing to the overall external activities of the Communist Party and State of Viet Nam and to the promotion of friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the National Assembly of Viet Nam and Parliaments of other countries. Many delegations of the National Assembly made visits or took part in important activities and events overseas: Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Sinh Hung paid an official visit to Switzerland and Italy (March 16-23) and attended the 130th InterParliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly, attended the 35th ASEAN InterParliamentary Assembly (AIPA) in Laos (September 16-19); Vice-chairman Uong Chu Luu visited the Netherlands
and Portugal (June 26 - July 2); Vice-chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan paid a working visit to Argentina and Chile (June 29 - July 5); Vicechairman Huynh Ngoc Son visited Austria, the Czech Republic and Slovakia (September 11-20); Vicechairwoman Tong Thi Phong visited France (October 8-11), attended the 131st IPU Assembly in Switzerland (October 12-16). Viet Nam also hosted many important delegations from the Parliaments of other countries: Chairman of the Cambodian National Assembly Samdech Heng Samrin visited Viet Nam to attend the Anniversary of the Victory over Khmer Rouge Genocidal Regime (January 4-5) and paid an official visit to Viet Nam (August 18-20); the President of the Russian Federation’s Duma paid an 55
Chapter Five
DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung attending the 130th IPU Assembly in Switzerland (March 16-20, 2014)
official visit to Viet Nam (December 2); Vice-chairman of the Lao National Assembly Somphanh Phengkhammy paid a working visit to Viet Nam (March 10-19). The National Assembly also received 30 foreign delegations at the levels of Vice President of Parliaments, leaders of Parliament committees on working visits to Viet Nam. At the 130th IPU Assembly in Switzerland (March 16-20), Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung made a statement underscoring Viet Nam’s active and responsible participation in international issues, particularly those concerning peace and democracy. 56
The Vietnamese delegation proposed the theme: “Parliaments and the Realization of the post-2015 Sustainable Development Agenda” for the 132nd IPU Assembly in Viet Nam, which received the IPU’s endorsement. Viet Nam’s preparatory work as the host for the Hanoi-based 132nd IPU Assembly in March 2015 progressed in line with the schedule. The activities of the National Assembly within the framework of AIPA - ASEAN and other international forums contributed to stepping up intra-ASEAN cooperation and cooperation between ASEAN and
External Affairs of the Communist Party and the National Assembly, and People’s Diplomacy
other partners. Viet Nam also actively coordinated with and supported Laos in organizing the 35th AIPA (September 2014). Exercising the mandates of the legislative branch and the function of overseeing the country’s external affairs, the National Assembly was engaged in making the resolution on Viet Nam’s participation in the UN peace-keeping operations;
Chapter Five
appraising the Law on Immigration and Residence of Foreign Nationals in Viet Nam; promulgating 2008 revised Law on Nationality on the revision of regulations on registration to preserve the nationality for Vietnamese residing overseas in line with the Communist Party Politburo’s Resolution 36-NQ/TW dated March 26, 2004 on the work relating to the overseas Vietnamese.
III. People’s Diplomacy People’s
diplomacy
continued
the
“International
conferences
on
to be further promoted, helping
building the borderlines of peace,
strengthen friendship and solidarity
friendship, cooperation and shared
with other countries in line with
development”
Directive No. 04-CT/TW dated July
Laos and Cambodia (November and
6, 2011 of the Communist Party
December 2014), attended the 6th
Central Committee’s Secretariat on
Viet Nam - China People’s Forum
“Continue reforming and improving
(December 2014); attended the ASEAN
the effectiveness of people’s diplomacy
People’s Forum 2014 (March 2014):
in the new context” and Resolution
actively explored the possibilities for
No.22-NQ/TW dated April 10, 2013
expanding cooperation with mass
of the Communist Party Politburo on
organizations
“International integration” for the
experiences
cause of international integration,
of
national building and defense.
management, thus contributing to
The Viet Nam Fatherland Front
mass
among
in on
Viet
ASEAN, the
organizations
Nam,
shared
participation in
public
the maintenance of peace, stability,
with
security and development in the region.
political, social and mass organizations
Viet Nam Fatherland Front’s Action
in the neighboring countries such as
Plan on “Enhancing communication,
Laos, Cambodia and China, ASEAN
mobilization, unity and solidarity
Member States as well as Viet Nam’s
among overseas Vietnamese under
strategic partners. Viet Nam organized
the new conditions” was implemented
strongly
expanded
relations
57
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DIPLOMATIC BLUEBOOK 2014
The congress on the establishment of the Viet Nam - Myanmar Friendship Association for the 2014-2019 period held by VUFO (August 26, 2014)
effectively to support activities of
and multilaterally with a view to
associations and to unite the overseas
winning the wide support of peoples
Vietnamese; bring into full play the
around the world for the cause of
role of the overseas Vietnamese,
national defense and development of
particularly intellectuals and experts in
the Vietnamese people; contributing
the implementation of national socio-
to safeguarding national sovereignty
economic development programs.
and territory, rejecting distorting acts
In 2014, the Viet Nam Union Organizations
ethnicity, democracy, human rights,
(VUFO) co-hosted the Asia - Europe
religion and belief to sabotage the
People’s Forum (September 2014);
State of Viet Nam; contributing to
established Friendship Associations
safeguarding peace, security, stability
with Singapore, Myanmar and the
and development cooperation in the
Philippines, raising the total number of
region and the world. Attention was
bilateral friendship associations with
also paid to mobilizing assistance
ASEAN countries to nine associations.
from non-governmental organizations
VUFO’s
were
(NGOs) with the disbursement of
carried out in an effective, practical
more than 300 million USD in 2014,
and diverse manner both bilaterally
focusing
of
58
and allegations that use the issues of
Friendship
external
activities
on
hunger
eradication,
External Affairs of the Communist Party and the National Assembly, and People’s Diplomacy
poverty
reduction,
socio-economic
development,
environmental
protection, climate change response, emergency relief and handling war consequences, etc. The
Viet
Nam
General
Confederation of Labor’s relations with other countries and international labor unions were actively promoted, contributing consolidation
significantly of
to
friendship
the and
cooperation with the working people and labor unions of countries around the world, particularly the Nordic and ASEAN countries. Exchanges of experience on economic development were enhanced. The working people’s participation in public management and socio-economic development was enhanced. This actively promoted the country’s
international
integration
process as well as the Communist Party and State of Viet Nam’s diplomacy. The Viet Nam Women’s Union also undertook various external activities, such as attending the Innovative Women and Businesswomen Forum (Republic
of
Korea,
May
2014),
receiving delegations of the Cuba
Chapter Five
Women’s Union (March 2014) and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea Women’s Union (September 2014); visiting Cuba, Germany and Switzerland (July 2014); attending the 2nd Viet Nam - Korea Women Forum (July 2014) and the 16th ASEAN Confederation of Women’s Organizations (ACWO) (August 2014). The external activities of the Viet Nam Youth Union were also conducted on a regular basis, such as attending the ASEAN - ROK Youth (February 2014), organizing the meeting of the Joint Coordinating Council of the Democratic Youth League (Viet Nam, May 2014), the Triangle Development Youth Forum between Viet Nam - Laos Cambodia (May 2014), the Japan ASEAN Youth Exchange (November 2014), the Youth Cooperation Conference among Viet Nam - Laos Cambodia (December 2014). Relations between Vietnamese provinces and cities and their foreign counterparts were also strongly promoted, contributing to deepening mutual understanding, enhancing solidarity, friendship and mutually beneficial cooperation between Viet Nam and peoples across the globe.
59
Appendix Chronicle of important events in 2014 January 2014 - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the Viet Nam - Cambodia Investment Cooperation Conference and Inaugural Ceremony of Cho Ray Phnompenh Hospital in Cambodia on January 13-14. - Japanese Minister in charge of Ocean Policy and Territorial Issues Ichita Yamamoto visited Viet Nam on January 14-15. - General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong made telephone conversation with Chinese General Secretary, President Xi Jinping on January 22. - Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visited the Republic of Korea on January 19-23. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the Retreat of ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting on January 15-18. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the annual World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland on January 22-25. - Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Defense Tea Bank made an official visit to Viet Nam on January 15-17. - Chairman of Cambodian National Assembly, Chairman of the Solidarity Front for Development of the Cambodian Fatherland Heng Samrin, Deputy Prime Minister Men Sam An and the high-level delegation of the Kingdom of Cambodia attended the 35th-year commemoration of the victory of Southwest border war to defeat Khmer Rouge genocidal regime on January 4-5 in Hanoi. February 2014 - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended and co-chaired the 13th Meeting of the Viet Nam - Cambodia Intergovernmental Committee on February 10-12 in Cambodia. 60
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- Israeli Minister of Public Security Isaac Aharonovic visited Viet Nam on February 20-25. - President of Viet Nam Fatherland Front Nguyen Thien Nhan visited China on February 21-25. - Sudanese Secretary of State Gaafar Kamal Ismaeel Saeed Abdelraheem visited Viet Nam on February 16-18. - Foreign Minister of Kyrgyzstan Abdyldaev Erlan Bekeshovich visited Viet Nam on February 18. - Minister of Justice Ha Hung Cuong visited Algeria on February 26-27. March 2014 - Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly of Indonesia Sidarto Danusubroto paid an official visit to Viet Nam on March 1-5. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the high-level meeting of the 25th Session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in Switzerland on March 1-5. - Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong paid a working visit to Viet Nam on March 10-14. - Member of the Party Central Committee, Vice-chairman of the National Assembly of Laos Somphanh Phengkhammy paid a working visit to Viet Nam on March 10-19. - General Secretary of Francophonie (OIF) Abdou Diouf visited Viet Nam on March 12-15. - Meeting between the Politburo of the Communist Party of Viet Nam and the Permanent Committee of Cambodian People’s Party on March 16. - President Truong Tan Sang paid a State visit to Japan on March 16-19. - Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit of Norway visited Viet Nam on March 18-21. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the Nuclear Summit in the Netherlands and visited Cuba and Haiti on March 24-29. - Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Sinh Hung attended the 130th IPU Assembly in Switzerland, visited Switzerland and Italy on March 16-23. - Member of the Communist Party Central Committee, Head of the Commission for Foreign Relations of the Party Central Committee Hoang Binh Quan paid a working visit to Malaysia on March 16-19. - Foreign Minister of Belarus Vladimir Makei visited Viet Nam on March 24-25. 61
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- Spanish Minister of Foreign Affairs and Cooperation Jose Manuel Garcia Margallo paid an official visit to Viet Nam on March 25-27. - President of Viet Nam Fatherland Front Nguyen Thien Nhan visited Singapore on March 27-30. April 2014 - Member of Politburo, Deputy Prime Minister of Laos Asang Laoly paid a working visit to Viet Nam on April 1-4. - Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak visited Viet Nam on April 3-5. - Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong attended the 2nd MRC Summit in Ho Chi Minh City on April 4-5. - Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen attended the 2nd MRC Summit in Ho Chi Minh City on April 4-5. - Bulgarian Prime Minister Plamen Oresharski and his spouse paid an official visit to Viet Nam on April 6-10. - Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh paid official visits to Sweden and the UK on April 10-17. - Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam attended Boao Forum in Hainan, China on April 9-10. - General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong visited Laos and attended Bun Pi May celebration on April 13-15. - Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov visited Viet Nam on April 16. - President Pro Tempore of the US Senate Patrick Leahy visited Viet Nam on April 16-20. May 2014 - Deputy Prime Minister of Laos Asang Laoly attended the 60th anniversary of Dien Bien Phu Victory on May 5-8 in Viet Nam. - Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Men Sam An participated in the celebration of 60th year of Dien Bien Phu Victory on May 5-8 in Viet Nam. - Prime Minister of Sri Lanka Dissanayake Mudiyanselage Jayaratne attended the United Nations Day of Vesak on May 7-10 in Viet Nam. - Thai Deputy Prime Minister Phongthep Thepkanjana attended the United Nations Day of Vesak on May 7-10 in Viet Nam. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the 24th ASEAN Summit and its related meetings in Myanmar on May 10-11. 62
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- On May 18, Member of the Politburo, Secretariat Standing Member of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Le Hong Anh attended the funeral service of Lao senior leaders, who passed away in an airplane crash. - President of Azerbaijan IIham Aliyev and his spouse paid a State visit to Viet Nam on May 18-20. - Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan attended the 4th Conference on Interaction and Confidence - Building Measures in Asia (CICA) in Shanghai, China on May 20-22. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the World Economic Forum on East Asia in the Philippines and paid a working visit to the Philippines on May 21-23. - Deputy Prime Minister Vu Duc Dam attended the 20th International Conference on the Future of Asia on May 22-23 in Japan. June 2014 - Head of the Communist Party’s Internal Affairs Commission Nguyen Ba Thanh visited Finland and Sweden on June 2-6. - Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan attended the Global Women’s Summit on June 4-7 in France. - Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi and his spouse paid an official visit to Viet Nam on June 9-10. - Member of the Communist Party Central Committee, Head of the Commission for Foreign Relations of the Party Central Committee Hoang Binh Quan visited China on June 10. - Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte paid an official visit to Viet Nam on June 16-17. - Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister Men Sam An attended the Workshop on Cooperation for Peace and Development between Viet Nam Women’s Union and Cambodian Women’s Union on June 16-18 in Hanoi. - Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi attended the meeting between the two leaders of Viet Nam - China Cooperation Steering Committee on June 17-18 in Viet Nam. - Vice-chairman of the National Assembly Uong Chu Luu visited the Netherlands and Portugal on June 26 - July 2. - Vice-chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan paid a working visit to Argentina and Chile on June 29 - July 5. 63
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July 2014 - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the inauguration of the Highway connecting border marker 790 with Phucu checkpoint of Attapeu province, Laos on July 4-5. - Member of the Communist Party Central Committee, Head of the Commission for Foreign Relations of the Party Central Committee Hoang Binh Quan visited Nicaragua and Dominica on July 15-22. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the 20th ASEAN-EU Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Belgium on July 22-23. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh paid an official visit to Czech and Poland on July 24-26. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the 4th Mekong-ROK Ministers’ Meeting in the Republic of Korea on July 29. - Japanese Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida paid an official visit to Viet Nam and co-chaired the 6th Meeting of Viet Nam - Japan Cooperation Committee together with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh on July 31 - August 2. August 2014 - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the 47th ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting and its related meetings in Myanmar on August 5-10. - Head of the Communist Party’s Mass Mobilization Commission Ha Thi Khiet visited Austria, Hungary and Czech on August 11-18. - High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Vice President of the European Commission Catherine Ashton visited Viet Nam on August 12-13. - Cambodian Chairman of National Assembly Heng Samrin paid an official visit to Viet Nam on August 18-20. - General Secretary of the Lao People’s Revolutionary Party, President of the Lao People’s Democratic Republic Choummaly Sayasone, his spouse and the high-level delegation of Laos visited Viet Nam on August 18-21. - President of the European Commission José Manuel Barroso paid an official visit to Viet Nam on August 25-26. - The Politburo Member, Secretariat Standing Member of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Le Hong Anh as the special envoy of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong visited China on August 26-28. 64
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September 2014 - Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai attended the 17th Meeting of the Viet Nam - Russia Intergovernmental Committee on Economic, Trade, Scientific and Technological Cooperation on September 5-7 in Russia. - Vice-chairman of the National Assembly Huynh Ngoc Son visited Austria, Czech and Slovakia on September 11-20. - President of India Pranab Mukherjee paid a State visit to Viet Nam on September 14-17. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the ASEAN-China Expo and the 11th ASEAN-China Trade and Investment Summit on September 15-16 in China. - Chairman of the National Assembly Nguyen Sinh Hung attended the 35th AIPA General Assembly on September 16-19 in Laos. - Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh visited the US on September 12-21. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the informal ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting back to back with the UN General Assembly on September 26 in the US. - Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai paid a working visit to the Netherlands on September 22-24 and co-chaired the 4th Meeting of the Viet Nam - Netherlands Intergovernmental Committee on Climate Change Adaptation and Water Resources Management; attended “Viet Nam Days in the Netherlands” and paid a working visit to this country on September 24-26. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the high-level discussion of the 69th UN General Assembly; visited Canada and the US on September 24 - October 2. October 2014 - General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong paid a State visit to the Republic of Korea on October 1-4. - Prime Minister of Vanuatu Joe Natuman paid an official visit to Viet Nam on October 5-9. - Lao Deputy Prime Minister Bunpon Buttanavong paid an official visit to Viet Nam on October 5-10. - The Communist Party Politburo Member, Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Le Thanh Hai visited Japan on October 7-9. 65
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- Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visited Japan on October 9-12 and Iran on October 13-15. - Vice-chairwoman of the National Assembly Tong Thi Phong visited France on October 8-11; attended the 131st IPU Assembly in Geneva, Switzerland on October 12-16. - The Politburo Member, Secretariat Standing Member of the Communist Party of Viet Nam Le Hong Anh visited the UK and Azerbaijan on October 10-14. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung visited Belgium, the European Union, Germany and the Holy See, attended ASEM 10 on October 13-19. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the informal ASEAN - EU Summit on October 16 in Italy. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended ASEM 10 in Milan, Italy and met with Chinese Premier Li Keqiang and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on October 16. - Defense Minister, General Phung Quang Thanh visited China on October 16-19. - Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi visited Viet Nam and co-chaired the 7th Meeting of the Viet Nam - China Cooperation Steering Committee with Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh on October 26-27. - Minister of Public Security, General Tran Dai Quang visited China on October 26-29. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung paid an official visit to India on October 27-28. - President of Tanzania Jakaya Mrisho Kikwete paid a State visit to Viet Nam on October 27-28. November 2014 - Slovakian Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Miroslav Lajcak visited Viet Nam on November 4-6. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh attended the 26th APEC Economic and Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Beijing, China on November 7. - Minister of Public Security, General Tran Dai Quang visited Israel on November 7-9. - President Truong Tan Sang attended the 22nd APEC Summit in China and met with Chinese General Secretary, President Xi Jinping, Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on November 9-11. 66
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- Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the 25th ASEAN Summit and its related meetings on November 11-13 in Myanmar. - German Vice Chancellor, Federal Minister of Economic Affairs and Energy S. Gabriel visited Viet Nam on November 19-22. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung attended the 8th Cambodia - Laos - Viet Nam Development Triangle Summit on November 24-25 in Laos. - General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong paid an official visit to Russia on November 23-26 and Beralus on November 27-28. - Deputy Prime Minister of Ethiopia Demeke Mekonnen visited Viet Nam on November 27-29. - Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan attended the 15th Francophonie Summit in Dakar, Senegal on November 29-30. - President of Hungary Janos Ader paid a State visit to Viet Nam on November 30. December 2014 - President of Russian Duma paid an official visit to Viet Nam on December 2. - Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Foreign Affairs Pham Binh Minh paid an official visit to Laos on December 4-5. - Deputy Prime Minister, Chairman of the Viet Nam - Laos Cooperation Subcommittee Nguyen Xuan Phuc paid a working visit to Laos on December 9-10. - Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung paid a working visit to the Republic of Korea and attended the Commemorative Summit of 25th Year of the ASEAN-ROK Dialogue Partnership on December 10-12. - Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visited Qatar and attended “Viet Nam Days in Qatar” on December 14-15 and the UAE on December 15-16. - President Truong Tan Sang paid a State visit to the Kingdom of Cambodia on December 23-24. - Chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference Yu Zhengsheng visited Viet Nam on December 25-27.
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In charge of publication ACTING DIRECTOR - EDITOR IN CHIEF Dr. HOANG PHONG HA
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