At the meeting (Photo: VNA) Hanoi (VNA) – As the National AssemblyStanding Committee continues its 31st sitting in Hanoi, Minister of Foreign AffairsBui Thanh Son is set to face questions regarding legal violations committed byboth Vietnamese citizens abroad and foreign nationals in Vietnam on March 18.
Minister Son presented a report outlining his ministry’s response to theseissues, emphasising that basedon information from relevant authorities, the ministry has acted swiftly tofacilitate consular visits and contacts initiated by foreign countries. This ensures that foreign embassies and consulates caneffectively carry out their duties in protecting their citizens in Vietnam.
Last year, the ministry reported 285 cases involving foreigners, withcharges primarily including trafficking ofdrugs, fraudulent appropriation of property, deliberate injury, and murder. Notably, 70 foreign nationals were given prison terms in Vietnam, while 108 others completed their sentences.
It also facilitated 414 consular visits and contacts and grantedconsent for an additional 337 such interactions.
The report further detailed administrative violations committedby foreigners from Da Nang to Ca Mau. These violations totaled 304, withillegal entry being the most prevalent offence (113 cases). There were 92 casesof foreigners overstaying their temporary residence permits, 60 of onlinefraud not yet reaching the level for criminal prosecution, 16 of illegaldrug use, 13 of theft, and five of robbery.
Since the beginning of this year, the ministry has reported 37new cases involving foreign nationals undergoing prosecution, detention ortrial. Furthermore, 20 foreign nationals commenced prison sentences in Vietnam,while 13 others completed their terms. The ministry's efforts in facilitatingconsular visits and contacts continue this year, with 65 arrangements made andconsent granted for 77 more cases./.
