A rehearsal in Hanoi ahead of the May 23 elections in which self-quarantine voters can cast their ballot at home. (Photo: VOV)

In an interview on Thursday, Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam Xiong Bo affirmed the political significance of the elections. He said that candidates come from all walks of life and professions, which shows a high degree of representativeness, citing that ethnic minorities account for one-fifth and women 45%, higher than in previous elections.

The preparations reflect the Communist Party of Vietnam’s consistent leadership, citizens’ rights, and law-based national governance, Ambassador Xiong Bo said.

He hailed Vietnam for using IT in the election to ensure that it will take place in a safe and orderly manner. 

Palestinian Ambassador Saadi Salama said this year is an extremely difficult year for all countries in the world, especially for those holding big events like the upcoming elections in Vietnam.

“Despite the hardships in preparations, I strongly believe that the Sunday elections will be a success as Vietnam’s pandemic prevention and control work has been implemented effectively. Vietnam has sent a message to the world that the joint efforts of the people and the Government in the COVID-19 fight have been successful. I’m optimistic that Vietnam will have a new qualified legislation body to meet the nation’s new requirements,” according to Ambassador Saadi Salama.

Final preparations at a polling station in Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi (Photo: VNA)

Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Sengphet Houngboungnuang told media that the upcoming elections demonstrate democracy of the socialist regime in Vietnam and of a State of the people, by the people and for the people. He praised the organization of the elections amid the complicated developments of the COVID-19 epidemic.

Ambassador Sengphet Houngboungnuang said, “Under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Government, National Assembly, and People’s Councils at all levels have shown flexibility in preparations. A mobile communications system, posters introducing the candidates' background, or banners featuring the importance of exercising the rights of voters have been used. Vietnam has implemented measures to prevent the coronavirus epidemic and ensure the elections’ safety. Vietnamese people are law-abiding and strictly follow regulations on epidemic prevention.”

The Lao Ambassador said Vietnam’s elections will be a success and the elected deputies will help Vietnam achieve its strategic targets for 2030 and become an upper middle-income country by 2045.