A banquet for diplomatic corps was held in Hanoi on January 20 with the participation of State and Hanoi officials along with ambassadors and representatives from international organisations.

Addressing the dinner, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh briefed the guests on 2013 in review and the fluctuating developments of the world economy.

He noted that Vietnam has remained proactive in international integration, advocating fair and mutual beneficial cooperation with all partners.

At multilateral forums including the United Nations, Vietnam has performed as a responsible member, making positive contributions to regional and the world’s security and development, which are concretised by joining the UN peace-keeping activities, and being active in the UN Human Rights Council, and the International Atomic Energy Agency’s Board of Governors.

The Deputy PM said the Government and people of Vietnam will try hard to realise the set goals in 2011-15 period. With regard to external relations, the country will continue to further international integration, together with the international community, to overcome economic difficulties, narrow differences and address issues of global concern.

He and Chairman of the Hanoi municipal People’s Committee Nguyen The Thao paid thanks to the international guests for their precious support and cooperation over the years, believing this will be a profound base to help each other develop in the future.

Moroccan Ambassador to Vietnam El Houcine Fardani, on behalf of the guests, delivered congratulations to Vietnam on its success in socio-economic development and international relations.

He hoped the country will uphold the momentum for 2014 by focusing on economic restructuring to become an industrialised nation by 2020 as planned.-VNA