The year 2007 marked a period of deeper integration of Vietnam in the global community. Its admission to the WTO and election as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council reflects the country's higher standing in the int'l arena. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Gia Khiem had a talk with the press.

Reporter: What is your assessment on Vietnam’s economic growth and its position after one year’s membership of the World Trade Organisation?

Deputy PM Khiem: Vietnam has made great strides in 2007 which has helped enhance the country’s standing in the international arena. This has been reflected by the fact that Vietnam entered the World Trade Organisation after 10 years of negotiation. The country successfully hosted the APEC meeting – a great and important event in the Asia-Pacific region. The organisation of the event showed the world that Vietnam has the ability, management skills and prestige to bring success to an event.

Reporter: What is the reason behind Vietnam’s achievements?

Deputy PM Khiem: Vietnam’s achievements have been attributed to the country’s steadfastness demonstrated through our struggles for national independence. Vietnam is viewed as a resilient nation capable of breaking down any opponent.

In addition, Vietnam has left a deep impression on the international community as a loyal and reliable friend. It is willing to put aside the past and look forward to the future, and wants to befriend all nations in the world.

Twenty years of renewal is a significant achievement for the country. The strong economic growth in Vietnam is a vivid example of the country’s determination in national construction and development.

Reporter: Vietnam’s becoming a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council has underlined the country’s prestigious position in the international arena and this also posed many challenges, especially to the implementation of its foreign policies. Do you think so?

Deputy PM Khiem: When Vietnam vied for the position, it identified both the advantages and disadvantages. To have decisive vote, the country should have firm stance and intelligence. That was the wish from international friends when they voted for Vietnam. Obviously, it is not easy to get a majority of votes in the current global context.

Reporter: Vietnam has gained a lot of benefits from joining the World Trade Organisation. However, it is said that the national economy has depended much on foreign factors which has seen the Consumer Price Index (CPI) increase over the past few years.

Deputy PM Khiem: This is one of the five drawbacks which we have anticipated before joining the WTO. When joining the body, we will have to open the door and of course any global price fluctuation will have an impact on the country. The rise in CPI is also unfavorable factor for Vietnam and the crux of the matter now is to devise measures to curb the hike.

Reporter: At the second session of the 12th National Assembly, the NA’s supervision report stated that it is necessary to set norms for the Government to control the CPI. Is it possible?

Deputy PM Khiem: Annually, we have a detailed report on inflation in the country. I think that the norms set by the NA will help the government measure its supervision work. In fact, the government has paid great attention to the issue as it is related to people’s living standards. I think the NA’s supervision of CPI is really necessary.

Reporter: Thank you very much. (VOV)