Brian Jeffrey
Vietnam’s Interest in Joining BRICS Discussed at Press Conference
During a regular press briefing on January 9, spokesperson Pham Thu Hang addressed inquiries regarding Vietnam’s potential interest in becoming a member of BRICS, especially after several Southeast Asian nations were recently admitted to the group.
Vietnam plays an active and responsible role in the global community, contributing to worldwide peace and development through various international platforms.
The nation follows a foreign policy characterized by independence, self-reliance, and diversification of international relations, aiming to be a trustworthy and responsible partner within the global community.
Pham Thu Hang highlighted that Vietnam carefully evaluates any participation in international and regional organizations to ensure alignment with the country’s foreign policy objectives, capabilities, and conditions.
Updates on Protection of Vietnamese Citizens Abroad
The spokesperson also provided insights into the safety of Vietnamese nationals overseas, including recent incidents in South Korea and China.
On December 30, 2024, a ferry accident occurred off the coast of Seosan, South Korea, leading to several fatalities, with one being a Vietnamese citizen.
The Vietnamese Embassy in South Korea quickly worked with local authorities and the family of the victim to facilitate communication and assist with funeral arrangements.
Ongoing efforts are being made to investigate the incident and to support rescue operations as well as to uphold the legal rights of Vietnamese citizens involved.
Recent Earthquake in Tibet
A significant earthquake measuring 6.8 on the Richter scale struck Tingri County in Tibet, causing considerable loss of life and injuries.
The Vietnamese Embassy in China is engaged with local authorities to track the situation and confirm if any Vietnamese nationals have been impacted.
Currently, there have been no reports of Vietnamese casualties, and the embassy continues to work closely with local agencies to provide necessary support and protection.
Vietnamese citizens needing urgent assistance are urged to reach out to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ citizen protection hotline or contact the Vietnamese Embassy in China.
