The US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Pham Thanh An, and some 50 staff members took part in a blood donation programme at his residence on May 31.

The programme, organised by the Red Cross for the second time, is set to become an annual activity for the consulate.

An told the media that he hopes the donation programme will foster good relations between the US and Vietnam and between their peoples.

"Donating blood is a simple way to save lives," he said.

"Every three second worldwide, one person needs blood transfusion. And one out of seven hospitalised patients needs blood.", he said.-VNA