During a recent visit to Russia, the Vietnam delegation of the Health Ministry headed by Minister of Health Tran Thi Trung Chien talked with Russia’s Ministry of Health and Social Development about issues of mutual concern, particularly in the prevention and control of infectious diseases, pharmaceutical production and staff training. The two sides agreed to further boost cooperation in the near future.

The Russian side highly valued Vietnam’s achievements in healthcare, particularly in preventing and controlling deadly diseases such as SARS and bird flu.

During the visit, the two sides signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU), under which they will set up a working party to conclude a cooperation agreement in five areas: staff training, prevention of infectious diseases, exchange visits, health care assistance in emergency situations, and cooperation in direct health service. The cooperation agreement is expected to be signed during Vietnam’s visit by the Russian Minister of Health and Social Development early next year.

On this occasion, minister Tran Thi Trung Chien was awarded an honourary doctor’s degree by the Scientific Council of the National Saint Petersburg Healthcare Institute for her contributions to the health care sector, particularly to preventing and controlling SARS and type A H5N1 on humans.