Localities should foster external relations not only to make full use of external resources for their own socio-economic development but also contribute to the nation’s international integration, said a senior diplomat.

Addressing a seminar on international cooperation at local levels held in Hanoi on August 13, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son stressed that the Vietnamese Party and State have always paid special attention to promoting the role and strength of provinces and cities nationwide in external relations.

He said localities should be fully aware of their own strength and potentials in order to choose the right foreign partners and reap the best results in external relations.

The deputy FM affirmed that the ministry is willing to support local authorities with human resources training in the field.

Representatives from a number of provinces and cities shared their localities’ experience in promoting investment and trade ties with foreign partners. The role of local governments in development projects and foreign investors’ recommendations for many localities were also tabled for discussion.-VNA