VN introduces white book on national defense

The White Book on National Defense 2009 illustrates Việt Nam’s consistent stance of fostering friendship and equal cooperation with countries around the world in favor of regional and international peace, stability and development - Photo: VGP

This is the third time Việt Nam introduces its white book on national defense. The first book was published in 1998 and the second in 2004.

The book consists of three main parts and eleven appendices, thoroughly presenting the leadership, structure, number of arms and branches of services, and orientations for building of the People's Army and other armed forces.

For the first time, Việt Nam publicized the State budget for national defense and its total troop strength.

Readers can find information about Việt Nam’s specific policies relating to prevention of weapons of mass destruction, counter-terrorism, and involvement in the UN’s peace-keeping activities.

Việt Nam is determined to follow a military policy of peace and self-defense with the guideline of not using force or threatening to use force in international relations, and solving divergences and disputes through peaceful solutions, clearly says the Book.

The release of the White Book on National Defense 2009 once against demonstrates the desire and determination of the Vietnamese people for deepening mutual understanding and trust with the rest of the world.

By Hải Minh