In his opening remarks, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh reflected on the history of the sector and its achievements along the way.
Eight speeches delivered at the event shared the viewpoint that since its establishment, the diplomatic sector has made substantial contributions to national independence and reunification as well as in the current reform (doi moi) process and integration efforts.
The speakers noted that the end of the war and return of peace in Vietnam were the results of successful negotiations at international conferences held in Paris and Geneva.
Amid security and development challenges following national reunification, the ministry and other sectors embarked on drives to address war consequences, defend border areas and put an end to embargoes.
During the reform era, the diplomatic sector made great contributions to shaping new development and external relation policies, normalising ties with countries and promoting the integration process in the region and throughout the world.
Its activities include Party, State and people-to-people diplomacy such as coordination among the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Public Security and National Defence across security, politics, socio-economics, culture and information for foreign services.
Participants at the seminar stressed that the greatest challenges for the diplomatic sector are maintaining an environment of peace and stability while simultaneously safeguarding independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, national security and social safety and order.
They quoted Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong as saying at the 28th conference of the sector that during war time, soldiers lead the fight to defend the country, but in peacetime, it is the diplomats who should lead efforts to build peace, defend the country and mobilise resources for national development.
Discussions at the event helped clarify the ministry’s tasks in analysing situations and giving accurate forecast, policy consultations, strengthening ties with countries and partners and settling emerging issues.
Participants agreed that as an essential force on the diplomatic front, the sector will work closely with ministries, agencies and localities and increase collaboration with other nations, partners and international organisations during global integration.
