Question: How significant is it to select 2010 as the Viet Nam-China Friendship Year?

Answer: The establishment of Viet Nam-China diplomatic ties on 18th January 1950 is a significant and historic event in bilateral relations. Vietnamese and Chinese leaders have decided to select 2010 as the Viet Nam-China Friendship Year. The two countries have agreed to organize political, economic, cultural activities and friendship exchanges at central and local levels. In January 2010, Viet Nam and China solemnly celebrated the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, marking a good start for the Viet Nam – China Friendship Year.

Viet Nam consistently attaches great importance to and make every effort for further enhancement of the comprehensive strategic partnership and cooperation with China in line of “friendly neighborliness, comprehensive cooperation, long-term stability and looking towards the future” and in the four-good spirit of “good neighbors, good friends, good comrades and good partners.”

We strongly believe that building upon these great achievements recorded in the friendship and cooperation over the past years and with joint efforts, the Viet Nam-China Friendship Year 2010 will be a great success. The traditional friendship between the two peoples will be further deepened. The comprehensive cooperation between the two countries will continue to witness greater progress, meeting the interests and aspiration of the two countries and in line with the trend of peace, stability, cooperation for shared development in the region and the world.

Question: What has Vietnam done for Haiti to overcome the earthquake’s consequences?

Answer: Given heavy loss in casualties and properties caused by the earthquake in Haiti on 13th January, the Government of Viet Nam decided to provide US$ 50,000  for the Haiti people and is considering other forms of assistance to help the Haiti people soon overcome the heavy consequences.

Question: Could you provide Viet Nam’s reaction to the outcome of the presidential election in Sri Lanka?

Answer: Viet Nam congratulates Mr. Mahinda Rajapaksa on his re-election as the President of Sri Lanka. We hope that the Sri Lankan people, under the leadership of President Mahinda Rajapaksa, will achieve greater success in their cause of national reconstruction and development that will bring Sri Lanka to a greater position in the region and the world. Viet Nam always attaches importance to further enhancing and strengthening the friendship and cooperation with Sri Lanka.