(VOVworld) - Nearly 200 consular representatives, international organizations, NGOs, and business associations attended a meeting to welcome the New Year in Ho Chi Minh City on Thursday.

Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan received a representative from a foreign organization (Photo: VNA)

Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan reviewed the city’s socio-economic achievements in 2013 and its development orientations in 2014. He said the city’s external affairs have attained success in many fields, which enhances friendly relations and promotes trade, investment, and tourism. Anatoli Borovik, the Russian Consul General, said: "2013 was a great success for Ho Chi Minh City in many aspects. The city’s average growth rate doubled that of the whole country. I appreciate the great support of local authorities in maintaining and promoting cooperation with foreign partners which enhances mutual understanding among peoples.

One of Ho Chi Minh city’s most important diplomatic events, the meeting is held annually to foster friendly relations between the city and foreign countries.