Vietnam has always paid much attention to disadvantaged labour groups in the society and is willing to enhance cooperation and experience sharing in human resources development, President Truong Tan Sang has said.

He made the remarks in Hanoi on September 6 while hosting a reception for heads of delegations attending the 6th APEC Human Resources Development Ministerial Meeting.

The President welcomed the representatives from the 21 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies, who were here to discuss issues of common concern in an increasing globalisation context.

He expressed his delight at the success of the meeting, with many initiatives put forth as well as a joint statement and an action plan adopted.

After nearly 30 years of reform, Vietnam has entered a new period of development in which human resources is considered one of the strategic breakthroughs for the national industrialisation and modernisation, and international integration, he said.

Since it joined the forum 16 years ago, Vietnam has been an active and responsible member of the APEC, he stated, adding that the country has also worked closely with other members in stepping up priortised cooperation areas, especially human resources.

The State leader said he hopes APEC will continue promoting its role as the engine of the global economic growth and connectivity, and member economies will continue supporting Vietnam in successfully realising its comprehensive integration policy in the future.

He also called for their assistance for Vietnam so that it can successfully host the 2017 APEC Summit, thus contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region and the world.

The guests appreciated the preparations of Vietnam’s ministries for the meeting, saying that with the success of the event, the APEC economies will enhance their collaboration in human resources and work together to realise the joint statement.

The head of the Indonesian delegation shared his country’s experience in human resources development, with regard to support policies for vulnerable groups. He said that Indonesia is keen on partnering with Vietnam in the field.

Meanwhile, the head of the Philippine delegation expressed his hope that Vietnam will share experience with his country to help it successfully organise the 7th meeting in 2015.-VNA