(VOVworld) – The Ministry of National Defense has opened 34 military attaché offices in foreign countries and had 45 foreign attaché offices established in Vietnam. Over the past 3 years, the ministry has authored numerous documents related to Vietnam’s integration into the world in terms of defense, and a plan for joining the UN peace keeping forces. External defense has made an important contribution to maintaining an environment of peace. Globally, the ministry has fostered conditions to for national socio-economic development, safeguarding national security, independence and territorial integrity and the promotion of Vietnam’s military capability. At a conference to review external defense work during the 2011-2013 period, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh said: “The Ministry of National Defense needs to bolster coordination at multilateral forums, regional forums of ASEAN and East Asia, and through its participation in the UN peace keeping forces. These efforts will help enhance Vietnam’s status and contribute to its policy of proactive international integration”.

Defense Minister General Phung Quang Thanh outlined 7 directions for external defense affairs in the next 2 years. Vietnam will prioritize developing ties with neighboring countries, ASEAN, traditional partners and partners whose interests are directly related to Vietnam’s interests. Vietnam welcomes partners with respect and friendship, and implements the project on participation in the UN peace keeping forces.