Earlier, a few days before the traditional Lunar New Year Festival (Tet), the National Committee for APEC 2006 officially made its debut in Hanoi under the chairmanship of Deputy Prime Minister Vu Khoan. Furthermore, the construction of an international conference centre, which will be the venue for APEC 14, is being finalised ahead of schedule. Preparatory work for the event such as transport vehicles, personnel staff and accommodation is currently being hastened. A huge framework in preparation for Vietnam’s most important international event in 2006 has been put into operation.

Regarding the significance of Vietnam hosting APEC 14, Deputy PM Vu Khoan noted that the Year of APEC 2006, with the APEC Summit Week as a focal point, set to be held from November 12-19, will be the most important event for Vietnam in 2006 in terms of external relations. It will provide a great source of pride for Vietnamese people and demonstrate the country’s greatest contribution to the development of APEC, vividly highlighting Vietnam’s image and increasing the country’s position in the regional and international arena, Mr Khoan said.

The event will show Vietnam’s determination to continue accelerating the international economic integration process and address urgent issues in the region and world.

2006 will be the year of great significance as Vietnam is exerting greater efforts to promote the negotiation process for its admission to the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

One of major topics at the 14^th APEC will be the promotion of economic co-operation. Despite being rated as having the lowest development status among APEC economies, closer co-operation in trade, investment, economics and science and technology with APEC members will help speed up Vietnam’s economic activities and bridge its development gap with other countries.

Many country leaders have expressed their wish to attend the 2006 APEC Summit, while many others have voiced their support for Vietnam to help it successfully organise the important event.

With its rising position in the international arena and thorough preparations based on a wealth of experience learnt from hosting major meetings such as the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and the ASEAN Summit and Francophone Summit, Vietnam can be confident that APEC 14 will be held successfully in the country.