Vietnam has been stepping up diplomatic efforts to help ensure energy security amid growing global uncertainty, Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang said at the ministry's regular press briefing on April 2.
Responding to reporters’ questions on the issue, Hang said relevant ministries and agencies, including the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Vietnam’s overseas representative missions, are fully aware of their responsibilities and swiftly implementing directions from the Politburo, Secretariat, and leaders of the Party and State to minimise the impact of tensions in the Middle East on Vietnam.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, together with the Ministry of National Defence, the Ministry of Public Security and other relevant agencies, has been closely monitoring developments, conducting regular assessments and forecasts, and advising on response measures to avoid being caught off guard and to respond promptly to emerging situations.
Vietnamese diplomatic missions in affected areas have remained on duty, continuously providing updates and carrying out their assigned tasks, particularly in citizen protection, she noted.
Within its mandate, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also been closely monitoring international developments and policy adjustments by other countries to advise the Government on macroeconomic and energy management measures. It has coordinated closely with the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Industry and Trade and other relevant agencies while working with partners to strengthen trade and investment ties and support joint responses to current challenges, said the spokesperson.
Hang added that Vietnam has carried out activities around energy diplomacy at various levels, including high-level engagements. The ministry has also instructed overseas Vietnamese missions to work proactively with host-country authorities, local businesses and foreign enterprises to support these efforts.
In the coming period, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the representative missions abroad will continue coordinating with relevant ministries and agencies to advance these tasks.
Regarding Vietnam’s view on maritime safety, Hang affirmed that Vietnam consistently attaches importance to ensuring freedom, security, and safety of navigation at sea, and emphasised the importance of complying with international law to maintain maritime security and safety for peace, stability, cooperation and development.
Regarding Cuba - US dialogue, Vietnam welcomes and supports Cuba and the US engaging in dialogue to seek solutions to differences in their bilateral relations, based on respect for independence, sovereignty, territorial integrity, and fundamental principles of international law.
Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the statement in response to a reporter’s question on Vietnam’s view of the dialogue and the current situation in Cuba. She said Vietnam hopes the two sides will soon reach common ground to move towards improving and normalising relations for the benefit of their peoples, and for peace, cooperation, stability, and development in the region and the world.
Vietnam is closely following developments and believes that Cuba will overcome its present challenges, she added.
Once again, Vietnam reaffirms its traditional solidarity and friendship with the Cuban people and consistently supports United Nations General Assembly resolutions calling for the removal of the unilateral embargo against Cuba, the spokesperson added. /.
