News on the relationship

 

New South Wales wants to boost ties with Vietnam

New South Wales (NSW) attaches great importance to strengthening all-round cooperation with Vietnam, said NSW Governor Marie Bashir.

Ms Bashir made the statement at a reception given by Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh in Hanoi on November 9.

She said she was happy to meet Mr Manh again in Hanoi during her visit to implement some of Australia’s Forever Study Fund projects in Vietnam.

She spoke highly of the results of Mr Manh’s recent visit to Australia, during which Vietnamese and Australian leaders agreed to raise the two countries’ relationship to the comprehensive partnership. She also congratulated Vietnam on its important achievements recorded in the Renewal process and global integration.

She affirmed that the Forever Study Fund will continue to provide assistance to Vietnam in the areas of education and community health through developing projects, training medical staff and increasing doctors’ research capacity.

For his part, Mr Manh acknowledged Ms Bashir’s contributions to bilateral cooperation in education and community health, especially through the governor-sponsored Forever Fund’s professional exchange and humanitarian projects. He expressed his belief that these projects will be successful, making a practical contribution to improving Vietnamese people’s health.

He said he hopes that the governor will continue to help promote the friendship and cooperation in not only health care, but also culture, education, economics and trade, between New South Wales and Vietnamese cities as well as between Australia and Vietnam.

Vietnam, Australia issue joint statement

VNA 09/09/2009 - Vietnam and Australia have released a joint statement as Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh concluded an official visit from September 6-9 at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.
During the visit, the Vietnamese Party leader held talks with PM Kevin Rudd and other Cabinet ministers. 

Party General Secretary Manh also met with Governor General Quentin Bryce, Senate President John Hogg, Speaker of the House of Representatives Harry Jenkins, opposition leader Malcolm Turnbull, New South Wales Premier Nathan Rees and Governor Marie Bashir.
He also received representatives of the Australian National University and “Forever Study” Fund as well as met with representatives of the Vietnamese community and students in Australia .
The Vietnamese Party chief and the Australian PM had frank and open talks on all aspects of the bilateral relationship as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern. They reaffirmed importance of the bilateral relationship and the broad range of cooperation between Vietnam and Australia on global and regional issues. The two sides agreed to establish the Vietnam-Australia Comprehensive Partnership, which lays out a clear framework to strengthen the bilateral relationship through building multi-faceted cooperation, ongoing development assistance and technical cooperation to combat people smuggling and counter terrorism. The Party General Secretary and the Prime Minister agreed that officials from both countries would discuss and develop an Action Plan to take forward these interests.
PM Rudd congratulated General Secretary Manh on Vietnam ’s important achievements in economic reform and welcomed the country’s initiatives for further development. Party leader Manh applauded Australia ’s role as one of the long-term donors and partners in Vietnam ’s development. Both sides noted that Australia was one of the top ten donors to Vietnam , contributing development assistance estimated at 106 million AUD in the 2009-2010 period. Prime Minister Rudd reiterated Australia ’s commitment to assist during the design phase and looked forward to further positive consideration of the Cao Lanh Bridge in the Mekong Delta, subject to the outcomes of the Asian Development Bank feasibility study currently underway.
Both sides noted the substantial contribution of education links to the bilateral relationship, including by building close ties between people of both countries. The two leaders also recognised the support extended by the Australian government to Vietnam in training and exchange of experience on administrative reforms and anti-corruption. The Australian PM noted that Australia was a leading destination for Vietnamese students, with more than 20,000 Vietnamese enrolments in Australian courses. Australian education providers had also enjoyed great success in Vietnam , with more than 14,000 students studying in Vietnam for Australian qualifications.
The General Secretary and the Prime Minister acknowledged the dynamic bilateral trade and investment relationship between Vietnam and Australia , noting that it was Australia ’s fastest-growing trade relationship in ASEAN. The two leaders agreed that the Vietnamese economy offered favourable opportunities for Australian businesses and committed to continued cooperation in developing these opportunities.
The two leaders discussed the impact of the global economic and financial crisis and the international response to the crisis. There has been unprecedented international cooperation to stabilise the global economy and restore confidence, with a range of global and regional institutions playing an important role such as the UN, G20, APEC and ASEAN. The Prime Minister welcomed Vietnam ’s important efforts and successes in mitigating the impact of the crisis and achieving a growth target of around 5 percent in 2009. The General Secretary congratulated Australia on its impressive economic performance among OECD countries.
The two leaders agreed on the importance of continued trade growth and the need for an ambitious and balanced outcome to the WTO Doha Development Round of world trade negotiations as soon as possible. The Australian PM welcomed Vietnam ’s early ratification of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, a key platform for further growth in bilateral trade and investment. He also applauded Vietnam ’s participation in negotiations to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) and looked forward to working constructively and cooperatively with Vietnam during the negotiations.
The two sides agreed to negotiate an agreement on science and research cooperation in order to enhance collaborative research between Australian and Vietnamese scientists, building on existing cooperation in health and agricultural research.
In recalling the agreement between PM Rudd and PM Nguyen Tan Dung to deepen their strategic engagement, both sides welcomed the regional security dialogue held at senior officials’ level in Hanoi on August 20-21, 2009. The two leaders also highly valued the effectiveness of other cooperation dialogues between the two countries, including the Australia-Vietnam Human Rights Dialogue.
The General Secretary and the Prime Minister welcomed growing practical cooperation between Australian and Vietnamese government agencies, particularly in border security and combating transnational crime. The two leaders welcomed the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding on the Exchange of Immigration Information earlier this year and looked forward to the signing of an agreement to establish the Transnational Crime Centre in Ho Chi Minh City later in 2009.
Party leader Manh and PM Rudd expressed satisfaction with the excellent cooperation between Vietnam and Australia in the Asia-Pacific region and on global issues. The PM welcomed Vietnam ’s upcoming chairing of ASEAN and the East Asia Summit (EAS) in 2010 and wished to work closely with the country during its period as Chair. The two sides highly valued and agreed to continue promoting cooperation between the two countries in regional and international forums such as the ASEAN Regional Forum, EAS, APEC, WTO and the UN. The General Secretary affirmed that Vietnam would continue to support and promote cooperation between Australia and ASEAN. Vietnam took note of and supported continued discussion of Australia ’s initiative for an Asia-Pacific community and will positively consider Australia ’s candidature for a non-permanent seat in the UN Security Council for the 2013-1014 term.
General Secretary Manh expressed his deep gratitude to the Government and people of Australia for the warm hospitality extended to him and the high-level Vietnamese delegation. He extended his invitation to PM Kevin Rudd to make an official visit to Vietnam at a mutually convenient time. The Australian PM accepted the invitation with pleasure./.

Vietnam, Australia look to comprehensive partnership

VNA 07/09/2009 - Vietnam and Australia have agreed to elevate bilateral relations to the level of a comprehensive partnership.

Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh and Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd reached this meeting of minds during their talks in Canberra on Sept. 7.
Both leaders expressed their delight at the rapid and effective development of their friendly and cooperative ties since Vietnam and Australia officially established diplomatic relations on February 26, 1973.
They spoke highly of progress in bilateral political cooperation through the increase of high-level meetings, and praised the efficiency of dialogue and cooperation mechanisms between the two countries, including the regional security dialogue and the Australia-Vietnam human right dialogue.
General Secretary Manh applauded Australia ’s move to become one of the largest donors for and long-term partners of Vietnam ’s development. He also appreciated and thanked Australia for its provision of official development assistance (ODA) to support Vietnam ’s socio-economic development, hunger elimination and poverty reduction, describing the Australian-funded My Thuan Bridge as a symbol of this bilateral relationship.
Host and guest affirmed their resolve to further expand and deepen friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Australia in the interests of their two peoples and for prosperity in each country, thereby contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world at large.
The two leaders agreed to increase high-level meetings in different forms as well as visits at all levels and cooperation and consultation between sectors and ministries of the two nations.
Manh and Rudd agreed to beef up economic cooperation, especially in the fields of mining, light industry, processing, finance, and banking and services as well as escalating two-way trade.
They held that the two countries should encourage and create all possible favourable conditions for their businesses to invest in each other’s markets and expand close and durable cooperative ties, particularly in the post-global financial crisis period.
The two sides pledged to work together closely in order to effectively use Australian ODA capital. PM Rudd reiterated his government’s commitment to continuing granting aid to Vietnam , including the design and the possible funding of the Cao Lanh Bridge in the Mekong Delta.
PM Rudd asserted that the Australian government will increase the number of scholarships to Vietnamese university students and support Vietnam ’s doctoral training programme as well as training courses on administration, international law and English, designed for state employees.
Based on their current cooperation in health and agricultural research, the two sides decided to hold negotiations towards the signing of agreements in an effort to strengthen cooperation on scientific research between Australian and Vietnamese scientists.
Whilst discussing regional and international issues of mutual concern, Manh and Rudd emphasised the need to promote Vietnam-Australia cooperation in regional and international organisations and forums, including the United Nations, the East Asia Summit (EAS), the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
They noted that Vietnam and Australia should step up cooperation on global issues such as environmental protection, climate change, natural disaster and epidemic prevention and control, counter-terrorism, disarmament, the non-proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, and fighting trans-national crime.
The Party leader highly praised and thanked Australia for its support for Vietnam in the country’s international integration process, including its accession to the APEC, the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and its non-permanent membership on the UN Security Council for the 2008-2009 term.
He confirmed his backing of continued discussions on Australia ’s initiative to set up an Asia-Pacific Community and promised active consideration of Australia ’s bid to run for a non-permanent seat on the UN Security Council for the 2013-2014 tenure.
Party General Secretary Manh also promised to foster cooperative relations between Australia and ASEAN, especially when Vietnam takes over the group’s chair in 2010.
PM Rudd applauded Vietnam ’s support for Australia ’s efforts to become a member of the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) in 2010, as well as its Asian integration at ASEAN and EAS. He pledged to assist Vietnam in its talks to join the Trans-Pacific Strategic Economic Partnership Agreement (TPP).
On this occasion, Party General Secretary Manh invited PM Rudd to visit Vietnam . The Australian PM accepted the invitation with pleasure.
Following their talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of documents to implement high-level agreements. Vietnamese Deputy PM Pham Gia Khiem and his Australian counterpart, Julia Gillard, signed these documents.
On the evening of Sept. 7, PM Rudd hosted a state dinner in honour of Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh and his delegation./.

Vietnam, Australia sign MoU on judicial cooperation

VNA 08/09/2009 - The Chief Justice of the Supreme People’s Court of Vietnam, Truong Hoa Binh, and his counterpart from the Federal Court of Australia, Michel Black, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on an increased level of judicial cooperation between the two countries.

The MoU, signed in Hanoi on September 8 during a visit to Vietnam by a delegation from Australia’s Federal Court, is the legal basis for the two courts to build and put into action a number of joint initiatives.
Under the MoU, both sides will focus on technical cooperation programmes, especially between their judges and court officials.
At their meeting, the two chief justices highlighted the importance of the relationship between the two courts, saying that closer ties would bring about practical benefits for both countries.
The Federal Court of Australia has offered an effective and practical assistance to Vietnam over the past few years, especially in building “a Judges’ Handbook” and helping to enhance the capacity of Vietnamese judges, said Chief Justice Binh.
The Australian official said there had been a lot of progress made between the two courts.
He added that in the future the ties would be enhanced./.

PM approves FTA between ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand

VGP – The PM just said okay to the Australia-ASEAN-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (AANZFTA).

AANZFTA was signed on February 27, 2009 in Thailand, marking the cooperation between all ASEAN members, including Việt Nam, and Australia and New Zealand in promoting economic and trade ties in the region.

Under the Agreement, up to 2018, ASEAN, Australia and New Zealand will abrogate at least 90% of tariff categories. They also pledged to establish a close cooperation mechanism to implement non-tariff measures.

AANZFTA is expected to be a driving force for closer and more effective economic cooperation between Việt Nam and Australia and New Zealand.

Australian supermarket group explores opportunities in Vietnam

VOV - The General Director of the Woolworths Australia Supermarket Group, Mark John, is scheduled to visit Vietnam from March 11-20 to study the market and negotiate with 33 local businesses over the purchase of Vietnamese-branded products.


 

Nguyen Huu Chi, Vietnamese Commercial Counsellor in Sydney, says that the negotiations will allow Woolworths to purchase Vietnamese products directly from the producers and distribute them at its chain of supermarkets across Australia.
Woolworths is keen to import such Vietnamese products as rice, dried and canned fruits, coffee, packaged tea, canned fish, vegetables, mushrooms, peanuts and seafood. 

During his stay in Vietnam, Mark John will visit three southern agro-seafood processing factories and work with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and representatives from some large supermarkets and food processing companies in Hanoi.

Vietnam seeks strengthened ties with Australia

Hanoi (VNA) – The Vietnamese government and people will try their utmost to further strengthen the multi-faceted relationship with Australia , particularly in the fields of economics, trade, investment and education.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made this statement during a reception for the Speaker of Australia’s House of Representatives, Harry Jenkins, in Hanoi on January 7.

The government leader valued Speaker Harry Jenkins’ visit and expressed his pleasure at the recent developments in bilateral ties.

Australia is the fourth-largest export market for Vietnam , with two-way trade reaching 6 billion USD in 2008. The country is also implementing numerous large-scale projects in Vietnam .

Australia is now home to more than 9,000 Vietnamese students and post-graduates.
PM Dung made the suggestion that Australia consider allowing Vietnamese citizens to enjoy visa regulations similar to those offered by several other countries and expressed his hope that Australia would soon recognise Vietnam as a market-oriented economy.

He said he hoped that the two sides would sign agreements on labour cooperation and support for the construction of Cao Lanh Bridge in southern Dong Thap province in the near future.

He also affirmed that the Vietnamese government would work to facilitate and encourage Australian businesses’ investment in the country.

On this occasion, PM Dung thanked the Australian parliament and government for increasing its official development assistance (ODA) to Vietnam and creating favourable conditions for Vietnamese expatriates in Australia .
Speaker Harry Jenkins informed the PM of the results of his talks with National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong and expressed his belief that the visit would actively contribute to the sustainable relationship between the two countries.

He said he was delighted at the developments in bilateral cooperation in the past, which has brought many practical benefits to both sides.

Vietnam and Australia have experienced excellent developments in socio-economic relations and have also cooperated closely at regional and international forums, contributing to the world’s peace, stability and development, Jenkins said.

He added that the Australian Minister of Immigration and Citizenship will visit Vietnam in the future to discuss specific agreements regarding the implementation of visa regulations for Vietnamese citizens.

Vietnam, Australia enhance legislative ties

Hanoi (VNA) – National Assembly (NA) Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong welcomed Australian Speaker of the House of Representatives Harry Jenkins and his delegation at a welcoming ceremony in Hanoi on Jan. 7.

The Australian legislator is on a visit to Vietnam from Jan. 5-11 at the invitation of Chairman Trong.

The Vietnamese legislative body would do its utmost to develop Vietnamese-Australian ties for the benefit and development of each country, and for peace and prosperity in the region and the world at large, Chairman Trong said during their talks following the ceremony.

The top Australian legislator suggested that the two legislative bodies seek cooperation measures to ensure the effective implementation of previously-reached agreements.

Increasing levels of cooperation between the two countries also contributes to peace, cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region, he said, adding that Vietnam and Australia should work more closely at regional and international parliamentary forums.

Sharing this view, NA Chairman Trong said the implementation of previous agreements would lift the two countries’ relations to new heights.

Vietnam recognises the importance of its ties with Australia and wishes to increase its friendly relationship and multifaceted cooperation with Australia across bilateral and multilateral fields, he said.

He also suggested that Australia , with its strength in capital, technology and management experience, continue to provide support to Vietnam throughout its industrialisation and modernisation processes.

Vietnam is currently trying to fulfill its Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, the country is in need of support from other countries, including Australia, to ensure better implementation of the MDGs as it suffers from a lack of human resources, Trong said.

Jenkins confirmed that Australia is willing to support and help Vietnam to develop infrastructure and human resources training, as well as to deal with the effects of climate change.

NA Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong laid on a banquet in honour of his guest later that evening.

On Jan. 5, Speaker Jenkins worked alongside the Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council, Pham Phuong Thao.

The two sides shared their common interest in the possibility of working together in specific areas such as urban management, infrastructure and transportation development.

Projects such as the My Thuan and Phu My bridges are vivid demonstrations of the fine relationship enjoyed by the two countries, Jenkins said.

The Australian legislator spoke highly of the role of the Vietnamese community in his country as well as their contributions to developing the ties between the two nations.

NA Chairman: Cooperation with Australia important

Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam values Australia ’s role in the Asia-Pacific region and attaches importance to promoting cooperation with the country, National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong said on Jan. 2.

Chairman Trong noted the development in the two countries’ bilateral and multilateral relations over the recent past at his meeting with the new Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Allaster Cox.

The Vietnamese and Australian parliaments signed an agreement during Trong’s official visit to Australia in early 2008, creating a basis for further development of cooperation between Australian and Vietnam .

Trong, however, said that much remains to be done to further expand and intensify Vietnamese-Australian relations.

The Vietnamese National Assembly would do its best and support the government in implementing agreements signed between the two countries, he said.

Australia wants to build long-term sustainable relations with Vietnam , both bilaterally and multilaterally, especially within the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, said Ambassador Cox.

The two parliaments’ cooperation would make important contribution to building the partnership and cooperation, he said, adding that an upcoming visit by the Speaker of the Australian House of Representatives, Harry Jenkins, is aimed at promoting this ties.

Australia helps Vietnam improve its judicial system

(VNA) – Australia has pledged to provide 600,000 AUD to help improve Vietnam’s judicial system in 2009.

A project to update the Vietnamese Judiciary’s Benchbook (phase II) was signed off in Hanoi on December 3 by the Australian ambassador to Vietnam Allaster Cox and standing deputy chief of justice of the Supreme People’s Court of Vietnam Dang Quang Phuong.

The Australian government-funded assistance is to be chanelled via the Australian Agency for International Development (AusAID). The Supreme People’s Court of Vietnam (SPC) will act as the implementing agency and the Federal Court of Australia will act as a co-managing agency.

Under the terms of the project, the SPC will draft new sections of the Benchbook reflecting the recent significant legislative programme undertaken in Vietnam .

In addition, several existing chapters of the Benchbook will be revised, based on comments and suggestions made by the law community.

According to the Australian Embassy, the project is expected to be completed by October 2009. It will be the first Benchbook for Vietnamese judges.

Phase I of the project was carried out between 2004 and 2006 with a similar level of investment.

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PM calls for more Australian investment

(VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung has called for more investment from Australia and pledged to further administrative reform to create a more transparent and convenient environment for foreign investors.

“The Vietnamese Government will continue perfecting policies to ensure that the market economy operates in accordance with international practice and will focus investment on infrastructure and human resources to assure sustainable development,” the PM told a business forum in Melbourne on October 14 during his official visit to Australia.

Much remains to be done to boost economic ties to a level that matches the existing traditional friendship, potentials and desires of the two countries, the PM further said.

After the forum, PM Dung witnessed the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Vietnam and the Victoria State, and a memorandum of understanding between Tien Giang province and the Transport Work Construction Corporation 5 of Vietnam and the Country State Development Pty Ltd. of Australia on the construction of a 1-billion-USD urban area and a 120-million-USD bridge.

The same day, PM Dung met with representatives from leading Australian economic groups and universities, including Alcoa, ANZ Bank, BHP Billington, Deakin and RMIT.

He told his guests that during his meetings with Australian leaders, the two sides agreed to work out a roadmap for comprehensive cooperation that aims at practicality and higher efficiency with more favourable conditions to be given to boosting economic ties.

Vietnam and Australia have finalised their bilateral negotiations in the framework of the ASEAN-Australia-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement, the PM said, adding this will bring in new cooperation opportunities.

“Therefore, Australian businesses can feel secure to do business in Vietnam and they should make full use of the current favourable conditions to further enhance their trade and investment ties with the Vietnamese partners,” he said.

The PM’s guests said they wanted to make long-term investment in Vietnam, with focus on a number of areas that are Australia’s strong points such as services, banking, education, food processing and steel production.

They all felt the Vietnamese Government’s move to permit ANZ to set up a wholly foreign-owned bank is evidence of the rapid development in economic ties between the two countries.

Before wrapping up his official visit to Australia, PM Dung received Victoria State Governor David de Kretser and Premier John Brumby.

He suggested that the Victoria State consider cooperation with Vietnam in financial-telecom services, agriculture, dairy cow husbandry, food processing, oil and gas exploitation, energy and human resources development, which are the state’s strengths.

The PM also asked the Austrian officials to facilitate Vietnamese students study. He said around 10,000 Vietnamese students are studying in Australia, with Victoria State being a top choice for them.

In addition, PM Dung sought Victoria State’s assistance to the overseas Vietnamese community so that they can contribute more to the locality and the friendly relationship between Vietnam and Australia.

The Victorian governor and premier spoke highly of the visit by PM Dung, describing it as a proof of the increasingly practical and efficient cooperation between the two countries.

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PM meets Australian parliamentary leaders

Canberra (VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung continued his official visit to Australia on October 13 with a series of meetings with political and parliamentary leaders and talks with overseas Vietnamese.

 

During his meetings with the Federal Opposition Leader Malcolm Turnbull, Speaker of the House of Representatives Harry Jenkins, President of the Senate John Hogg and Governor General Quentin Bryce, PM Dung said that friendly and cooperative ties between Vietnam and Australia have developed in many areas, particularly in economics, trade, investment, education and development assistance.

The PM added that he hoped the Australian leaders pay more attention to increasing the level of cooperation between the two countries in the future.

PM Dung expressed his pleasure over the cooperative ties between the Vietnamese and Australian parliaments, saying that these links were enhanced recently, following the visit to Australia by the Vietnamese National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong in March, 2008.

The Australian leaders welcomed the visit by PM Dung, which takes place at a time when the two countries are celebrating the 35 th anniversary of their diplomatic ties.

They said they plan to raise friendly and cooperative relations between Australia and Vietnam to new heights, particularly in the areas of economics, trade, investment and education.

Australia is currently Vietnam’s seventh largest trade partner and its third largest export market.

While meeting with overseas Vietnamese (OVs) and Vietnamese Embassy staff, PM Dung emphasised the Party and the State’s policy of creating the most favourable conditions for OVs to return home to live and conduct business.

He also said that, during his talks with his Australian counterpart Kevin Rudd, they agreed that the community of almost 250,000 Vietnamese in Australia has contributed to fostering the friendship between the two nations.

Talking to scholars, researchers and students at the Australian National University, including a number from Vietnam, the government leader said that educational links are a bright spot in cooperative ties between the two countries. He also spoke highly of the contributions made by the university towards educational cooperation between the two sides.

Prime Minister leaves for official Australia visit

Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, his wife and entourage left Hanoi on October 12 for a two-day official visit to Australia at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd.

The visit, the first made by Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung to Australia, takes place at a time when various practical activities are being held to mark the 35th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties.
PM Dung is accompanied by Minister-Director of the Government Office Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Minister of Transport Ho Nghia Dung, Minister of Construction Nguyen Hong Quan, Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia Nguyen Thanh Tan, among other high-ranking officials.

 

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President Triet receives RMIT General Director

The Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology (RMIT) International University in Vietnam has helped to train thousands of Vietnamese students with high education services, said State President Nguyen Minh Triet.

Mr Triet made the remarks while receiving RMIT General Director, Michael Mann, in Hanoi on October 6. He spoke highly of the active contributions by Mr Mann, a close friend of Vietnam, to the country’s development, particularly in the field of education and training.

The State President mentioned the construction of My Thuan bridge, which is considered a symbol of good friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Australia. He thanked the Australian Government for its valuable assistances in building RMIT University in Vietnam, and Mr Mann in particular for his active role as an Australian Ambassador to Vietnam at that time.

Mr Triet stressed that Vietnam and Australia have close relations and the two countries’ cooperation in the economic, cultural, social and education sectors has helped both sides boost national development of both sides.

He went on to say that Vietnam pays due attention to increasing the quality of education in order to develop a highly-skilled labour force to meet the country’s demand for comprehensive development.

President Triet also praised Australia’s assistance in poverty reduction programmes in Vietnam to help local people improve their living conditions.

For his part, the RMIT General Director expressed his thanks to President Triet’s invaluable help during his working term as Australian Ambassador to Vietnam in the past, as well as his current work in education development in Vietnam.

Mr Mann said he will leave Vietnam after a decade of working in the country, but he considers himself as an unofficial Ambassador to Vietnam and will continue to support the country in the future.

He also informed that RMIT has been training nearly 5,000 students, including 1,500 graduates. (VOV)
 

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Vietnam Embassy in Canberra celebrates the 63rd Anniversary of the National Day (2/9/1945 – 2/9/2008)

On 2nd September 2008, H.E. Mr Nguyen Thanh Tan, Ambassador of S.R Vietnam in Canberra organized a Reception to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the National Day of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

Present at the celebration are:  The Hon Peter Slipper MP, Vice Chair of the Australia – Vietnam Parliament Group, Parliament of Australia;  Air Chief Marshal Angus Houston, AO, AFC, Chief of Australian Defence Force;  H. E. Mr. Vo Van Thuong, President of  Vietnam Youth Federation, Member of the National Assembly of  Vietnam; H.E. Mr Stephen Brady, Chief of Protocol, DFAT; Ambassadors and High Commissioners of many foreign diplomatic missions in Canberra, representatives of the offices of the Australian Government, Vietnamese community in Australia and representative offices in Sydney and all staff of the Embassy.

Delivering a speech at the Reception, H.E. Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Tan stresses that for the past 63 years the Vietnamese people under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam has been gaining significant success. For the past 6 months of this year, Vietnam’s GDP growth rate is 6.5%; trade value increases rapidly; foreign direct investment is still poring in; society remains stable. The year 2008 aslo marks a new step of full integration of Vietnam into the region and the world over. Vietnam has ratified ASEAN Charter and making active contribution to the development of ASEAN family. Vietnam has been fulfilling responsibilities as the Non Member of the Security Council. Vietnam also fully implements her commitment on regional and international cooperation and actively takes part in the common efforts to sove the world issues such as climate changes, energy and food security.

This year is a significant year for the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Australia. Both countries have been carrying out many activities to celebrate our 35th Anniversary of the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations. The Chairman of the National Assembly H.E. Mr Nguyen Phu Trong and the two Deputy Prime Ministers H.E. Mr Truong Vinh Trong and H.E. Mr Nguyen Thien Nhan paid visits to Australia and the Honourable Minister of Foreign Affairs of Australia Stephen Smith visited Vietnam. For the past few years, trade value, tourism between the two countries has increased rapidly. Investment from Australia to Vietnam also increased significantly. Cooperation in education, defense and security are in good shape.

H.E. Mr Stephen Brady, Chief of Protocol states that, during the past years, Australia and Vietnam have become active trading and investment partners. Especially in recent years, the relationship between the two countries has grown in various fields. He strongly believes that the relations between the two countries will be further strengthened and brought  about more significant achievements.

The Celebration took place in an intimate atmosphere with warm  congratulations from foreign participants and overseas Vietnamese.

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PM hails flourishing Vietnam-Australia relations

Vietnam-Australia cooperation continued to blossom in various fields, especially bringing about a sharp increase in trade, investment and official development assistance (ODA).

Hanoi (VNA) – Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the remark while receiving former Australian PM Paul Keating in Hanoi on August 27.

Australia is now among Vietnam ’s 10 biggest trade partners, and it has 174 direct investment projects worth over 1 billion USD in total in the country.

The cooperation in labour, education also made progress with more than 9,000 Vietnamese students and trainees sent to Australia .

The government leader cited the My Thuan Bridge – Australia ’s largest ever development assistance infrastructure project - as a symbol of the two countries’ relations.

The PM thanked the Australian government and people for their effective assistance to Vietnam , as well as to the community of 200,000 overseas Vietnamese residing and doing business in Australia .

He also thanked the former PM for his great contributions to the development of Vietnam-Australian multifaceted cooperation.

PM Dung asserted that the Vietnamese government would provide favourable conditions to Australian investors, and wished that the former Australian PM would further contribute to the two countries’ cooperation, particularly in ODA, and human resource training.

Former PM Keating said the development of Vietnam-Australia relations over the recent years has brought sweet fruits to both sides.

He also shared experiences in master plan design and macro-economy management.

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Vietnam welcomes Australian investors: NA Chairman

Vietnam welcomes Australian investors to the country, National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong told former Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating in Hanoi on August 26.

 

Hanoi (VNA) – The NA Chairman thanked the Australian Government for its cooperation with and assistance to Vietnam , saying the two nations shared good prospect for fruitful cooperation.

He also spoke highly of Mr. Keating’s contribution to boosting the two countries’ ties, expressing his hope that the former PM would continue with his efforts to help promote the bilateral ties.

Australia is now among Vietnam’s 10 most important partners with 174 direct investment projects worth over 1 billion USD in total.

Vietnam and Australia have experienced positive changes in labour and education cooperation, NA Chairman Trong said, citing that Vietnam has sent 9,000 students to study in Australia.

Former Australian PM Paul Keating congratulated Vietnam on its socio-economic development and spoke of his concern about challenges Vietnam is coping with, especially those in finance and banking./.

President Triet meets with Austrian, Latvian leaders

President Nguyen Minh Triet met Australia’s Prime Minister Kevin Rudd and Latvia ’s President Valdis Zatlaers on separate occasions in Beijing on Aug. 9.

 

Beijing (VNA) – Noting the fine development of Vietnam-Australia relations over the recent past, President Triet expressed his hope that the Australian Government under the leadership of the Labour Party and PM Rudd would further promote their country’s multifaceted relations with Vietnam.

Vietnam hoped that Australia would continue providing official development assistance (ODA) for Vietnam and consider a project to help Vietnam build a bridge in southern Dong Thap province, President Triet said.

He also suggested the Australian government to continue with the training of a high-quality workforce for Vietnam’s national industrialisation and modernisation.

The Australian PM affirmed that his country always considers Vietnam an important partner in Asian and is ready to continue providing ODA for Vietnam, focusing on remote areas.

Besides, Australia will boost investment cooperation and trade with Vietnam, he added.

The Australian PM agreed with President Triet about the need to provide the Vietnamese community in Australia with more information of their home country to increase their awareness about Vietnam’s current situation.

The two leaders also affirmed need to increase cooperation in the fight against drug trafficking.

Meeting with his Latvian counterpart, President Triet affirmed Vietnam’s wish to strengthen cooperation with Latvia , one of its traditional partners.

He suggested Latvia to support Vietnam’s cooperation with the European Union, particularly the EU’s removal of trade barriers to Vietnam’s exports to the market.

President Valdis Zatlaers wanted Vietnamese businesses to invest in his country, which he said is a gate for Vietnamese goods to enter the Russian and European markets.

He said a delegation of Latvia’s Charmer of Commerce and Industry will visit Vietnam late this year to explore opportunities for cooperation, adding that it would pave the way for Vietnamese leaders to visit Latvia to boost economic cooperation between the two countries.

President Triet agreed with President Zatlaers’ suggestion for Vietnam’s facilitation of entry visa granting to Latvian tourists and said he supported Latvia to open soon its embassy in Hanoi.

Australia wants to expand co-operation with Vietnam

Relations between Australia and Vietnam have been developing strongly, according to a report by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs.

Vietnam’s economy continues to grow rapidly and the country is more dynamic in resolving regional and international issues, said the report.

The report highly valued economic relations between the two countries and said that Australia will continue to strengthen the relationship for mutual benefit. Two-way trade between the two countries reached US$6 billion in 2007. Investment especially in finance and education has made a significant impact and there is great potential for co-operation in mining.

Vietnam ranks fifth among Australian ODA recipients with an estimated total of US$100 million in 2008-2009. Also, more than 10,000 Vietnamese students are currently studying in Australia and the same number are following Australian educational programmes in Vietnam.

In the future, Australia and Vietnam will continue to expand co-operation in health care area and the fight against terrorism, transnational crime, and drugs and human trafficking. (CPV/VOVNEWS)

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Australia appreciates Vietnam’s role at regional and int’l forums


 

Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam has been playing an active role in the regional and international communities, said the visiting Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith in Hanoi on July 2.

In an interview given to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent, the Minister underlined Vietnam ’s role as a member of the World Trade Organisation, a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council as well as its chairing of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

He said his country saw not only opportunity to boost its relations with Vietnam but also the importance of working with Vietnam at ASEAN and other international forums.

Regarding his talks with Deputy Prime Minister-cum-Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem on July 1, Minister Smith said the Australian government has decided to increase its development assistance for Vietnam to 100 million AUD next year.

He asserted that Vietnam continued to be one of Australia ’s important regional partners and pledged a long-term cooperation with the ASEAN country.

He also announced a non-refundable aid of 30 million AUD for a programme on recycled energy development in order to meet the increasing demand for energy in the Mekong river basin countries.

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PM promises best efforts to boost ties with Australia


 

Hanoi (VNA) – The Vietnamese Government will try its best to boost ties with Australia , especially in the fields of economy, trade, investment, education and training and labour, for the benefits of both sides, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung stated.

Prime Minister Dung made the statement while receiving visiting Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith in Hanoi on July 2.

The PM expressed his pleasure at growing economic ties with Australia now Vietnam ’s 7th biggest trade partner and its 4th largest export market. Two-way trade value reached 4.56 billion USD last year, while Australian businesses had invested 1.01 billion USD in 174 projects in Vietnam by the end of May.
Vietnam is Australia ’s 4th largest aid recipient with a total committed official development assistance (ODA) capital of 93.1 million AUD, 1.3 million AUD for 2008 higher than the previous year.

Cooperation in training has been expanded. At present, over 9,700 Vietnamese students are studying in Australia while Australian-invested training establishments in Vietnam attract thousands of others.

PM Dung highly appreciated the results of the talks between FM Smith and Vietnamese Deputy PM Pham Gia Khiem and urged the two sides to implement their agreement on cooperation in labour and legislative assistance as soon as possible.

He also said the two foreign ministries should boost high-level dialogues and visits.

The PM took the occasion to thank the Australian Government for increasing ODA for Vietnam and creating favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Australian.

FM Smith informed the host that the Australian Government will raise its scholarship budget for Vietnamese students to 100 million USD in 2009. He affirmed that Vietnam continues to be Australia ’s important partner in the region and pledged to develop long-term cooperation with Vietnam .

The minister extended an invitation to visit Australia from the Australian Prime Minister to PM Dung. He said that the Australian PM wishes to visit Vietnam soon.-

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Australia willing to develop cooperation with Vietnam


 

Hanoi (VNA) - The Government of Australia considers Vietnam one of its important partners in the region and pledges to develop long-term cooperation with the Southeast Asian nation.

Visiting Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs Stephen Smith made the statement during his talks with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem in Hanoi on July 1.

Khiem welcomed Smith’s first visit to Vietnam and spoke highly of the Australian Government’s policy of continuing to promote cooperative ties with Vietnam .

“ Vietnam always attaches great importance to expanding the friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Australia ,” the deputy PM stressed.

In reply, Smith said he was glad to visit Vietnam for the first time since he was appointed as Australian Minister for Foreign Affairs in December 2007.

The two sides expressed their pleasure at the fine developments in the friendship and all-round cooperation when Vietnam and Australia are celebrating the 35th anniversary of diplomatic ties this year.

They noted that since the beginning of the year, the two nations exchanged many high-level visits, including those to Australia by National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong, and Deputy PMs Nguyen Thien Nhan and Truong Vinh Trong, and a trip to Vietnam by Queensland State ’s Minister of Transport, Trade, Employment and Industrial Relations John Mickel.

Australia is now Vietnam ’s 7th biggest trade partner and its 4th largest export market, with two-way trade value reaching 4.56 billion USD last year. By the end of May 2008, Australia had invested 1.01 billion USD in 174 projects in Vietnam .

Vietnam is Australia ’s 4th largest aid recipient with a total committed official development assistance (ODA) capital for 2008 totalling 93.1 million AUD, 1.3 million AUD higher than the previous year.

Regarding regional and international issues, Deputy PM Khiem affirmed that Vietnam treasures cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Australia , as well as within the framework of the East Asia Summit (EAS). Vietnam supports Australia ’s efforts to promote peace, stability and development in Asia and the Pacific, he added.

During the talks, the two sides also discussed measures to speed up negotiations on the ASEAN- Australia - New Zealand Free Trade Area (AANFTA).

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Australia-funded anchorage inaugurated in Quang Ngai

14/06/2008 -- 6:22 PM

Quang Ngai (VNA) – The central province of Quang Ngai inaugurated an anchorage on June 14 as part of a 208 billion VND project funded by the Australian government to help mitigate natural disasters’ devastating impacts.

The Tinh Hoa anchorage, located in Son Tinh district, was built at a total cost of 39 billion VND, of which more than 27 billion VND were provided as non-refundable aid by the Australian Government.

The facility is capable of providing a storm-shelter for around 350 fishing boats and related services.

Addressing the inaugurating ceremony, Australian management contractor representative Tom Connor said the anchorage is a symbolic work in mitigating negative impacts of natural calamities in Asia .

He stressed that the project to lessen consequences of natural disasters in Quang Ngai received two highest awards of Australia , including a technical prize of Queensland State and a national prize for excellent technical consultancy.

According to Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Bill Tweddell, the Australian Government will provide 9.85 million AUD in aid for Vietnam in support of poverty reduction in Quang Ngai during the 2008-11 period.

The project will benefit around 26,000 poor households in the province and targets to reduce the poverty rate of local ethnic minority groups to below 30 percent by 2010.-Enditem

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Deputy PM Trương Vĩnh Trọng continues his Australia working trip


 

VNGOP - Deputy PM Trương Vĩnh Trọng and the Government delegation attended a symposium on May 9 in Sydney on HIV prevention, drug detoxification in jails and community responses to HIV/AIDS.

Health care for prisoners and delinquents in reeducation camps is one of top issues in New South Wales. Dr. Deborah Zador, Director of the Drugs and Alcohol Clinic in the New South Wales Prison, stated that, this work can help make prisoners healthy and protect the community health as well.

Mrs. Julie Babineau, Chief Executive of the New South Wales Prison’s Health Care Center, revealed that nearly 1,000 employees are working at 90 health care centers for prisoners and delinquents throughout the state.

Speaking of the community’s role in HIV/AIDS prevention, Prof. Chris Puplick (Wollongong University, former President of the Australian National Council on AIDS and Related Diseases) told that Australia has already brought into play the role of communities in minimizing HIV spread. He stated that if the role of communities is not highlighted, the development of HIV/AIDS may become more complicated.

By Thùy Dung
 

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Deputy PM Trương Vĩnh Trọng to visit Australia


 

VNGOP – At the invitation of the Australian Government, Deputy PM Trương Vĩnh Trọng and a high-ranking delegation of the Vietnamese Government will pay an official visit to Australia on May 3-11, 2008.
The visit is aimed at learning Australia’s experience of HIV/AIDS prevention and anti-drug as well as other activities to further strengthen the comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

Deputy PM Trương Vĩnh Trọng and his entourage will pay courtesy visits and have meetings with Australian leaders; work with AusAIDS; visit several healthcare centers for drug addicts and HIV/AIDS-infected people; and join seminars on policies, programs and laws on HIV/AIDS prevention and anti-drug; .

Australia is now the 7th biggest trade partner and the 4th export market of Việt Nam. In 2007, the two-way trade turnover between Việt Nam and Australia was US $4.6 billion, rising up 10% against 2006. Australia’s total investment capital in Việt Nam reached about US $790 million by late October 2007, with 156 projects, mainly focusing on processing industry, property, consulting, and education.

By Nguyên Hồ
 

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Vietnam, Australia join hands to prevent human trafficking

 

Hanoi (VNA) – The Australian Government will provide 1 billion VND this year to assist Vietnam ’s efforts to prevent trafficking of women and children in northern border Lang Son province.

Announced on March 25, the assistance will provided through the Australian Agency of International Development (AusAID) with the Centre for Community Health Promotion (CCHP) as the Vietnamese partner.

CCHP Director Tran Minh Gioi said the one-year project, starting from March 2008, is hoped to reach 8,000 people, including 2,000 school children and 400 women and children in high risk groups.

The assistance is part of Australia ’s Asia Regional Trafficking Persons Project which helps countries in Southeast Asia tackle the problem of human trafficking.

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NA Chairman meets with New South Wales Governor

 

Sydney (VNA) – National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong met with Deputy Governor-General of Australia and Governor of New South Wales (NSW) State Professor Mari Bashir in Sydney on March 14.

During the meeting Chairman Trong said he hoped the NSW Governor would continue contributing to friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and Australia , and New South Wales in particular.

He thanked Governor Bashir for her assistance to Viet Nam and told the gathering of her close ties with the Viet Nam Women’s Union .

Professor Bashir said her state has communities of people from many countries, including the Vietnamese community.

She said New South Wales and Viet Nam are currently implementing health care and education cooperation programmes.

The same day, Chairman Trong and his delegation met with NSW’s Legislative Council President Peter Primrose and Vice Speaker of the Legislative Assembly Grant McBridge.

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NA Chairman Trong calls for more Australian investments

 

Canberra (VNA)- National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong has told Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia to boost investments to match its great potential.

The two leaders held talks in Canberra on March 12 as part of Chairman Trong’s visit to Australia .

Chairman Trong said Australia ’s investments into Viet Nam remained modest, although it is the seventh largest trade partner and the fourth largest export market of the Southeast Asian nation with bilateral trade revenues reaching 9 billion USD in 2007.

Australia boasts a great potential and increasing regional and international prestige, making it good for Viet Nam to boost multi-faceted cooperation, especially in economy, trade and investment, said the chief legislator.

Trong also called for more regular exchanges of visits as good opportunities for Vietnamese to draw experiences in global integration for development.

For his part, PM Kevin Rudd recalled an event 35 years ago when the Labour-ruled Australian Government was among the first in the world to establish ties with Viet Nam as a signal of Australia’s respect to relations with the Southeast Asian nation.

He also congratulated Viet Nam for its recent achievements in socio-economic development and regional and international integration.
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Prior to the talks with PM Rudd, Chairman Trong met Speaker of the House of Representatives Harry Jenkins, who emphasised the mutual respect and mutual assistance in relations between the two countries.

The host also called for efforts to expand bilateral ties to other areas such as terror fight and epidemics control.

He described Chairman Trong’s visit as a step forward in bilateral relations.

Australia is always a friend and leading trade partner of Viet nam , said Jenkins.

He said Australian investments in Viet Nam have been showing efficiency and the influxes of Australian tourists are increasing.

He also expressed satisfaction at constantly improved bilateral relations in education, aviation, mining and many other areas.

Jenkins concluded by lauding the Vietnamese community’s contributions to the economic and cultural development in Australia as well as their roles in opening opportunities for dialogues and cooperation between the two countries.

Trong and his high-level National Assembly delegation also had working sessions with the Chairman of the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade References Committee, Michael Porshaw, Foreign Minister of the opposition party Andrew Robb and representatives from the Australia-Viet Nam Friendly Parliamentarians Group.

During their meetings, host and guest exchanged experiences in law-making and supervision of Government operations as well as discussed measures to cement cooperation in a large range of areas, from energy to mining, education, infrastructure development and HIV/AIDS control.

Chairman Trong and his entourage also attended Senate and House hearings at the Parliament House.

The NA leader attended a gathering with crowds of overseas Vietnamese in Australia at the Vietnamese Embassy.

Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Tan held a party in honour of Chairman Trong, his wife and his entourage.

Among the guests were representatives from the Australian Parliament and Foreign Ministry and Ambassadors from nine member countries of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and the three northeastern Asian nations of China , Japan and the Republic of Korea.

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NA Chairman seeks closer ties with Western Australia state

 

Perth (VNA) – National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong hoped that Australia , especially the Western Australia state, would promote cooperative ties with Viet Nam for the benefit and development of both countries.

During his meeting with Governor of Western Australia Ken Michael and in Perth , Western Australia on March 10, Chairman Trong said he was pleased with the growing cooperation between Viet Nam and Australia and Western Australia in particular. He noted, however, that Australia’s investment in Viet Nam remained incommensurate with both sides’ potentials and wish, despite robust trade ties.

Chairman Trong expressed his thanks to Australia for its valuable assistance to Viet Nam, saying that My Thuan bridge is a vivid manifestation of the friendship and fruitful cooperation between Viet Nam and Australia .

Governor Ken Michael warmly welcomed Chairman Trong’s visit, which, he said, would help boost the cooperation between his state and Viet Nam . A great number of Vietnamese businesses accompanying Chairman Trong means the visit would provide an opportunity for businesses from the two countries to meet and discuss chances of cooperation.

The governor also recognised the contributions the Vietnamese community in Australia has made to Australia’s development and the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

NA Chairman Trong also met with Western Australia’s Deputy Premier, Treasurer and Minister for State Development Eric Ripper, who said Western Australia wanted to expand cooperation in education and training with Viet Nam. Many Vietnamese students are studying in Australia, and Australian students should also go to Viet Nam to learn more about Viet Nam’s culture.

During a visit to the University of Western Australia, Chairman Trong said that education and training is a potential area for Viet Nam and Australia to promote cooperation.

The University of Western Australia currently has about 20 Vietnamese students, and has established cooperative ties with the Ho Chi Minh City Polytechnics University .

The same day, President of the Legislative Council (upper house) Nick Griffith and Speaker of the Legislative Assembly (lower house) Fred Riebeling of Western Australia hosted a banquet in honour of Chairman Trong, his wife and delegation.

Chairman Trong also met with Penny Flett, President of the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Western Australia and representatives from Alcoa Group, Australia’s leading group in ore mining.

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Vietnam Embassy in Canberra celebrates the 35th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Australia

On 28th February 2008, H.E. Mr Nguyen Thanh Tan, Ambassador of S.R Vietnam in Canberra held a Reception to celebrate the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Australia.

Present at the celebration are H.E. Ms Gillian Bird, Deputy Secretary of Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on behalf of the Government of Australia, Ambassadors and High Commissioners of many foreign diplomatic missions in Canberra, representatives of the offices of the Australian Government, Vietnamese community in Australia and representative offices in Sydney and all staff of the Embassy.

Delivering a speech at the Reception, H.E. Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Tan stresses remarkable achievements in the cooperation between the two countries during the past years. The 2 countries have exchanged visits by many delegations at all levels. The 2 – way trade amounted to 7 billion AUD in 2006-2007. The number of Vietnamese students studying in Australia is increasing day by day… Ambassador Tan hopes  that the cooperative relations between the country will be further promoted in every field in the coming time.

Deputy Secretary Gillian Bird recalls the event in 1973 when the Whitlam Government became one of the first Western countries to establish diplomatic ties with the then Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. Since then, Australia and Vietnam have become active trading and investment partners. Besides, in recent years, the relationship between the two countries has grown to cover a broad range of cooperation. She believes that the relations between the 2 countries will be further strengthened and brought  about more significant achievements.

The Reception took place in an intimate friendly atmosphere with warm  congratulations from foreign participants.

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Viet Nam, Australia promote education cooperation


 

Sydney (VNA) – Viet Nam and Australia signed an agreement on education cooperation for 2008-2012 on February 26 during a visit by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Education and Training Nguyen Thien Nhan.
During the Feb. 23-27 visit, Deputy PM Nhan worked with Australia ’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Education Julia Gillard.

The deputy PM also attended the celebration of 35 th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties (Feb. 26) held by the Asialink Centre, Melbourne University, on February 26, where he stressed that Viet Nam would further promote bilateral cooperative ties.

For her part, Deputy PM Gillard affirmed that Australia would work harder to boost Australia-Viet Nam relations, particularly education and training cooperation.

Deputy PM Nhan also met with Minister for Trade Simon Crean, paid a courtesy visit to former Prime Minister Gough Whitlam, and called at a number of universities and vocational centres.

Deputy PM Nhan left Australia for New Zealand on February 27.

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Australia pledges more help in education


 

Ha Noi (VNA) – Australia will continue to increase education and training exchange with Viet Nam as it is the best way the country can do to help Viet Nam develop.

Australian Ambassador Bill Tweddell said at a meeting to mark the country’s 220 th Independence Day (January 26) in Ha Noi on January 23.

“Australia strongly supports Viet Nam in its regional and international integration process,” the Ambassador affirmed.

President of the Viet Nam-Australia Friendship Organisation Tran Van Nhung spoke highly of activities to celebrate the 35 th anniversary of the two country’s diplomatic ties, including the “Australia Month” launched in Ha Noi the day before.

Bilateral ties between the two countries have been developing in recent years with two way trade turnover reaching 4.2 billion USD in 2006 and 4.4 billion USD in the first 11 months of 2007. Australia’s businesses are pouring 944 million USD in 168 projects in Viet Nam.

To date, over 9,000 Vietnamese students are studying in Australia and between 7,000-8,000 students are attending Australian education programmes in Viet Nam .

Australia is also one of the most scholarship suppliers for Vietnamese students. As many as 240 students received scholarships worth 20 million AUD or close to 280 billion VND in 2007

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Viet Nam trade fair kicks off in Australia


 

A Viet Nam trade fair was opened in Sydney, Australia, on November 30 under the aegis of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Vietnamese Embassy and the Australia - Viet Nam Commerce Chamber.

The event drew the participation of some 40 businesses from Viet Nam and Australia, which displayed textile and garment, handicrafts, sea food, agricultural product, and construction materials.

Addressing the event, Deputy Director of the Asia-Pacific Department of the Ministry of Industry and Trade Cao Nang Gian highlighted cooperation potential between Viet Nam and Australia, affirming the Vietnamese Government’s policy to develop its trade ties with regional countries, including Australia. (VNA).

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Seminar on Aquaproducts

 

On 25 September 2007, the Vietnamese Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development, Embassy of the S.R.Vietnam in Canberra and the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) co-organized a Seminar on Vietnamese Aqua products and in Sheraton on the Park, Sydney. Present at the Seminar are H.E. Mr Nguyen Viet Thang, Deputy Minister of the Vietnamese Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development, H.E. Mr Nguyen Thanh Tan, Ambassador of Vietnam to Australia, Mr Chris Harris, Deputy Lord Mayor of Sydney, Mr Harry W. Peter, Chairman of the Seafood Importers Association of Australia. A lot of representatives of Vietnamese and Australian Companies were present at the Seminar.

In his opening speech, Deputy Minister Nguyen Viet Thang informs that Vietnamese Sea-products is developing rapidly with encouraging achievements. He stresses that the aquaculture in the country has seen remarkable progress with the application of advanced culturing measures which are environment-friendly.  The capacity in processing together with advanced technologies have ensured the quality and safety of products and met the demands of international standards. As a result, the export turnover of Vietnamese aqua-products have constantly increased, reaching 3.35 billion USD in 2006. In terms of aqua-products, Vietnam is presently expanding its export markets to more than 150 countries and territories all over the world.

H.E. Ambassador Nguyen Thanh Tan, in his speech, stresses remarkable achievements in the cause of economic development. With the open-door policy, rapid domestic administrative reforms and the expansion of the cooperative relations with other nations on the basis of mutual interests, Vietnam has been becoming more and more attractive to foreign investors. He expresses his hope that the commercial ties between Vietnam and Australia will be progressing more rapidly so that they could become commensurate with the potentials of the two sides, meeting the demands of the businesses and people of the two countries.

From 24-27 September 2007, the Delegation of the Vietnamese Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development also participated in Fine Food Exhibition held in Sydney to promote and introduce a variety of Vietnamese products to international friends.

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Deputy PM receives northern Australian Chief Minister

 

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem received in Ha Noi on September 17th Chief Minister of the Northern Territory of Australia Clare Martin who is on a visit to Viet Nam.

Deputy PM Khiem said that Martin’s visit is a good chance to boost the cooperation between Viet Nam and Australia in general and between Vietnamese localities and the Northern Territory in particular.

He also suggested that the two sides should make more efforts in seeking measures to boost educational and economic-trade cooperation.

Deputy PM Khiem spoke highly of the cooperative relations between the two countries, particularly in the fields of politics, trade, investment, education and tourism, adding that Viet Nam and Australia holds great potential for further cooperation in education, agriculture and labour.

The Deputy PM also affirmed Viet Nam's wish to beef up multifaceted cooperation with Australia and pledged to create favourable conditions for localities of the two countries, including the Northern Territory, to boost cooperative ties.

For her part, Martin expressed wish to strengthen cooperation with Viet Nam in education and training, mining and animal husbandry. (VNA)
 

State President arrives in Sydney for 15th APEC Summit


 

President Nguyen Minh Triet, his wife and a State-level delegation of Viet Nam arrived in Sydney, Australia, at 18:45 hrs local time on September 6 for the 15th Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Summit at the invitation of Australian Prime Minister John Howard.

Prior to the 15 th APEC Summit, on September 7, President Triet is set to meet Chilean President Michelle Bachelet Jeria and President Roh Moo-hyun of the Republic of Korea.

The Vietnamese State leader is scheduled to deliver his speech at the Viet Nam-Australia Business Forum, attend a meeting between the leaders of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) member countries and the US President, and receive leaders of a number of Australian and international economic groups. (VNA)

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Vietnam Embassy in Canberra and the ASEAN day

On 8 August, 2007, at the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam, the ASEAN Heads of Missions in Canberra organized a ceremony to commemorate the Fortieth Anniversary of the founding of the Association of South-East Asian Nations (ASEAN). Present at the celebration are The Hon. Alexander Downer, MP, Minnister for Foreign Affairs of Australia, together with about 200 guests, including High ranking officials of Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, Department of Defence and some other departments, scholars from several institutes and universities, and diplomats from a large number of foreign missions and international organizations in Canberra.

Addressing the Celebration, H.E. Mr Meas Kim Heng, Ambassador of Cambodia, current Chair of ASEAN Head of Missions reviewed the establishment and development of ASEAN and stressed that ASEAN is at a historic turning point, that is to transform from a dynamic and resilient Association into a ASEAN Community by 2015, which based on three pillars namely ASEAN Security Community, ASEAN Economic Community and ASEAN Socio-Cultural Community, as enshrined in the Vision 2020 and the Bali Concord II; ASEAN continues to play a central role in the evolving strategic architecture of East Asia, develop ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) as an important mechanism for dialogue and cooperation on political and security issues in the Asia Pacific region, step up intra-ASEAN interagency cooperation to better counter terrorism, pursue deeper economic linkages with its Dialogue Partners, and better cope with the challenge posed by regional integration, the expansion of its external linkages and rapid globalization.

The Chair of HOM also appreciated the participation and commitment made by Australia in various ASEAN dialogue meetings such as the EAS, ARF, PMC which have made great contribution to peace, prosperity and economic development of countries in Southeast Asia and the region as a whole. On behalf of the HOM, he expressed the profound gratitude to the Government and the people of Australia for the valuable support and assistance to ASEAN member countries in their development and integration efforts, believing that by deepening and broadening the relations in political, economic, social and cultural areas, ASEAN and Australia relations will develop into a successful and lasting partnership, thus contributing to peace, stability and prosperity in the region.

The Celebration was successfully held with praise from international friends, making contribution to familiarizing the image of ASEAN in Australia and fostering the solidarity and cooperation among the ASEAN missions in Canberra.

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Vietnam Embassy in Canberra to celebrate Friendship and Cooperation Treaty with Lao

On 28th July 2007, H.E. Mr Nguyen Thanh Tan, Ambassador of S.R Vietnam in Canberra and Madam Dang Thanh Xuan held a Get-together to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Friendship and Co-operation Treaty and the 45th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Present at the celebration are H.E. Mr Khenthong Nuanthasing, Ambassador of Lao, Madam Phavanh Nuanthasing, together with all diplomats and staff members of the 2 Embassies. Speaking at the celebration, the two Ambassadors reviewed the glorious stages and outstanding achievements made by the peoples of the two countries in the past as well as in recent times, stressed that Vietnam and Laos are two neighbours whose relations were formed and developed along their thousand-year history of national construction and defence; the relations between the two nations, particularly fostered by President Ho Chi Minh and President Khayson Phomvihan have been promoted by the two Parties, States and leaders, making it a priceless asset for the two countries on their path toward prosperity and happiness. They affirmed the close cooperation between the two missions to make contribution to the friendly relations and the special solidarity between the two countries.
The Get-together took place in a cheerful and intimate atmosphere with sport activities, Lamvong Dance and enjoying of Vietnamese and Lao traditional food.
 

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Australian Development Scholarships (Ads) In Vietnam


Application For The 2009 Intake Ausaid & Ads In Vietnam
The Government of Australia works in partnership with the Government of Vietnam on a development cooperation program to advance Australia's national interest by assisting Vietnam to reduce poverty and achieve sustainable development. The Australian Development Scholarships (ADS) program forms an important part of the development cooperation program, with up to 150 full scholarships awarded to qualified Vietnamese candidates each year. Since 1992 more than 2,000 Vietnamese students have been trained in Australia with the support of Australian Government scholarships.
The ADS program in Vietnam is aligned closely to the goals and objectives of Australia’s overall development cooperation program. All applicants for ADS must demonstrate the contribution their proposed study will make to either of the two key development sectors of the Vietnam-Australia Development Cooperation program: Governance and Rural Development. In addition, Australian Development Scholarships are available for areas of study that are identified as Regional, Transboundry and Emerging Priorities. The majority of scholarships in the 2009 intake will be awarded to candidates in the Open category. However, a specific number of awards have been reserved for qualified employees working in government agencies (listed in Table 1 in the Application Form) strategically relevant to the Vietnam Australia Development Cooperation Program. Candidates in these institutions apply under the Priority Public Institutions category. Eligible candidates living and working in provincial areas of Vietnam are especially encouraged to apply for ADS.
In the 2009 ADS intake, it is expected that 150 full scholarships will be available for postgraduate study with up to fifteen (15) scholarships for PhD studies and one hundred and thirty-five (135) scholarships for Masters Degrees and/or Graduate Diplomas. Studies at undergraduate level are not available under the Vietnam ADS program.
Successful applicants receive an annual stipend, establishment allowance, basic health insurance, tuition and other compulsory academic fees. Support for overseas fieldwork costs is also available in some cases. A key feature of the ADS scheme in Vietnam is the provision of up to seven (7) months intensive English language training in Vietnam for selected applicants prior to their departure to Australia. If required, students will receive further English language and academic preparation tuition in Australia.
FURTHER INFORMATION
For further information regarding application for an Australian Development Scholarship please contact: The ADS Hot Line (1-5pm, Monday to Friday from 2 July to 10 August 2007): (04) 762 3707.
Email: ads@ads.edu.vn

Source: http://www.ads.edu.vn/download.php

 

 

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