(VOVworld) – Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh said sovereignty defense was one of the goals of Vietnam’s foreign affairs and a big task for him after being approved to the post by the National Assembly. Being Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Minh committed himself to aiding the Prime Minister in foreign affairs and international relations.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh answers reporters after being approved by the National Assembly to the post of Deputy Prime Minister. (Photo: dantri.com.vn)

Minh talked about his responsibilities in the new post: "Sovereignty is sacred to each country. Safeguarding sovereignty is one of the goals of Vietnam’s foreign affairs. Vietnam has sovereignty and sovereignty rights over the East Sea. Vietnam’s foreign policies must work to maintain a peaceful environment in the East Sea. Vietnam and other ASEAN members are implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea and, together with China, will soon adopt a Code of Conduct. That’s how Vietnam defends its sovereignty and sovereign rights in the East Sea." 

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh said Vietnam had so far established strategic partnership with 14 countries, showing that Vietnam’s policy of befriending all countries in the world has been effectively implemented: "In the future, we will continue building relations with key countries and our neighbors. Vietnam is likely to be the only one in Southeast Asia who has built a strategic partnership with some ASEAN members and has plans to expand relations with the others in the region. Globally, we have established comprehensive cooperative relations not only with major countries but also others in America and Africa". 

Pham Binh Minh was approved Deputy Prime Minister by the National Assembly on Wednesday.