Vietnam ready to host Francophone Summit in 2014
(VOV) - Assistant to the Foreign Minister, Nguyen Ngoc Son, has announced Vietnam’s facilities, international prestige, and previous experience qualify it to host the 15th Francophone Summit in 2014.
During a four-day working visit to Ottawa in Canada from October 1-4, Son who is also a Francophone Special Envoy of State President Truong Tan Sang met with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s advisor and the assistants of the Canadian Deputy Ministers of Foreign Affairs (Francophone and Asia).
Son expressed his hope that Vietnam’s organisation of the event will successfully contribute to cooperation within the community of French-speaking nations. He also asked the Canadian Government to support Vietnam’s bid.
Meeting with Mr. Peter McGovern, Asia Assistant Deputy Minister and the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade’s Chief Trade Commissioner, Son submitted a letter from Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh to his Canadian counterpart John Baird.
Both sides discussed ways of celebrating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and Canada.
While visiting Quebec, Son also presented a letter from State President Truong Tan Sang to Quebec Governor Pauline Marois.
Established in 1970, the International Organization of the Francophonie (OIF) connects French-speaking nations and territories with the aim of maintaining and developing cooperation in all fields. Cultural matters are a special focus of member countries.
The Francophone Summit is held biennially, with the 14th summit scheduled to take place in Congo later this month.