Vietnam’s participation in the Hague Convention abolishing the requirements for legalisation for foreign public documents - the Apostille Convention - was the main topic of a seminar in Ho Chi Minh City on March 7.

The event was co-organised by the Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the EU Delegation to Vietnam and the European Chamber of Commerce in the country.

The Apostille Convention is an international treaty drafted by the Hague Conference on Private International Law.

At the seminar, participants discussed the convention’s impacts on the consular work as well as Vietnam’s preparations for its membership.

A representative of the Consular Department under the foreign ministry said Vietnam has fulfilled basic requirements to become a member of the convention.

The department will publicise the convention while enhancing training for agencies engaging in consular certification and legalisation at the central and grassroots levels.

Vietnam will also consult experience of the convention’s members to make better preparations, the official said.

Marijn Sprokkereef from Audier and Partner Vietnam firm said joining the convention will demonstrate Vietnam’s commitments to removing red tape in administrative procedures, thus raising foreign investors’ confidence in the country, improving its investment environment and competitiveness in the region.

At the seminar, participants also shared experience in legalisation issues and the implementation of the convention in EU member countries, including the electronic Apostille Programme (e-APP).-VNA