A get-together was held for representatives from diplomatic missions, international and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in Vietnam in Hanoi on February 1 to herald the approaching Lunar New Year festival.

The event was co-organised by the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO) and the People’s Aid Coordinating Committee (PACCOM), with the presence of Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan.

Speaking at the event, Doan extended her New Year greetings and best wishes to the international community. She thanked and highly valued their support for Vietnam in 2012, adding that it is a valuable and practical encouragement for Vietnam in its national construction and development.

The Vietnamese leader applauded the VUFO’s contributions to promoting the nation’s solidarity, friendship and mutual understanding with other countries and attracting assistance from NGOs.

According to VUFO Chairman Vu Xuan Hong, cooperation between Vietnam and other nations was intensified last year. Around 300 million USD from NGOs was disbursed, contributing to reducing poverty in Vietnam, and developing healthcare and education in the country.

On behalf of the guests, Venezuelan Ambassador to Vietnam Jorge Rondon Uzcategui congratulated Vietnam’s industrialisation and modernisation achievements, and said that due to its self-reliant and peaceful policies, Vietnam has established friendship and cooperation with many countries and regions around the world.

Marko Lovrekovic, Managing Co-Director of the NGO Resource Centre, affirmed his support of and participation in Vietnam’s development process.

Also on the day, Minister of Public Security General Tran Dai Quang hosted a get-together for delegates from foreign law enforcement agencies, embassies and international organisations in Vietnam .

At the event, Quang expressed his thanks to the organisations for supporting the Vietnam Police in protecting people’s safety and happiness.

The minister briefed the guests on Vietnam’s achievements in 2012. Under the leadership of the Party and the management of the Government, the country restrained inflation, stabilised its macro-economy and ensured social welfare, despite a slow global economic recovery and many difficulties.

He said that globalisation and international integration are posing many challenges for law enforcement agencies. More efforts are needed to intensify bilateral and multi-lateral cooperation to fight crime, protect security and social order and build a world of peace, safety and development.

Quang also expressed his hope that in the time to come the relationship between the ministry and other organisations will be further strengthened to maintain each country’s political stability and social order.-VNA