The Hanoi Department for External Affairs held a conference on December 3 to intensify the city’s cooperation with international non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

Participants evaluated collaboration between the municipal authorities and NGOs as well as the efficiency of the projects carried out in the city.

Over the past 10 years, the capital has mobilised over 53 million USD from foreign NGOs. It has also set up ties with 180 organisations, with many operating in the city for a long time and greatly contributing to its socio-economic development.

Phung The Long, Head of the Foreign Ministry’s External Affairs Department, spoke highly of NGO-funded projects, which he said have helped the city address social and health issues.

Glenn Gibney, Chief Representative of Plan International in Vietnam , asked for more regular exchanges between the organisations and authorities of localities where projects are being implemented, particularly on administrative procedures.

Delegates appreciated the Hanoi department’s initiative to actively set up information sharing channels with foreign NGOs.

The organisations’ representatives also vowed to continue coordinating with the city’s offices in designing suitable projects that provide practical assistance for poor and disadvantaged people.-VNA