Hanoi (VNA) – The diplomatic sector has successfullycompleted its tasks, while significantly contributing to the COVID-19 fight,Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son said in his recent article on theoccasion of New Year 2022.

The minister said 2021 witnessed the 13th National Party Congress – an important political event that sketched out astrategic vision on national defence and development until the middle of the 21st century.

The important decisions set out at the congress serve as a greatsource of momentum for the entire political system and people, he stressed.

For the diplomatic sector, the year marked thefirst-ever National Conference on Foreign Affairs, along with the 31st Diplomatic Conference and the 20th National Conference on LocalDiplomacy which aimed to implement guidelines on external affairs adopted at the 13th National Party Congress and conclusions made at the National Conference onForeign Affairs.

Reviewing achievements recorded by the diplomaticsector in 2021, Son said it has further contributed to promoting the imageof Vietnam as a nation of independence, self-reliance, innovation, dynamism with rich characters andtraditions, and as a faithful friend and a reliable partner.

Amid the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, the diplomatic sector has sought waysto carry out activities in all spheres, he continued.

Son highlighted the strong development of relationsbetween Vietnam and partners, especially its neighbours, traditional friends,and strategic and comprehensive partners.

Leaders of the Party, State, Government, NationalAssembly, ministries and agencies have participated in major multilateralregional and international events and activities, and made active, responsible contributionsto international affairs.

The minister attributed the achievements to theleadership of the Party, the instruction of the Politburo and the Secretariat of the Party Central Committee, theflexible and effective management of the Government, and the direct engagement in external activities ofParty, State, Government and NA leaders.

The power of the diplomatic sector has been formed thanks to the closecoordination between Party diplomacy, State diplomacy and people-to-peoplediplomacy, and between diplomacy and national defence and security, as well asthe support of people and businesses, he said.

Pointing out global uncertainties, Son stressed theneed for the diplomatic sector to continue following principles and pursuing targets,while actively, flexibly and creatively adapting to the new situation./.