Deputy PM and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh.

Mr. Minh, who is also Foreign Minister, wrote in an article titled “Diplomatic achievements: new stature, new energy” that Vietnam did an excellent job in hosting APEC Year 2017. The event had drawn the largest number of delegates over the past 10 years, leaving a profound impression on foreign friends. APEC Year 2017 demonstrated Vietnam’s external policy of actively contributing to shaping common rules and its role as a responsible member of the world community.

Mr. Minh said that Vietnamese leaders visited 19 countries and welcomed 8 heads of state and government leaders in 2017. In 2018, the diplomatic sector will focus on preparing for Vietnam’s ASEAN Chair in 2020 and the country’s bid for a non-permanent seat at the UN Security Council for the 2010-2021 term.