The country has proposed a range of measures based on the principle of non-discrimination whilst also taking into account developments regarding the ongoing global health situation in line with provisions set out by International Health Regulations.

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang

Foreign Ministry spokesperson Le Thi Thu Hang made the remarks on March 20 in reply to a reporter's question asking about if there was any discrimination to adjusting entry regulations aimed at preventing the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic.

“In the context of the rapid and complicated developments of the COVID-19 epidemic, many countries and territories worldwide, including ASEAN countries, have adopted a range of restrictive measures at different levels for foreign entries.

Compulsory medical surveillance and isolation measures will apply to both Vietnamese nationals and foreigners to ensure the safety and health of Vietnamese citizens as well as foreigners in Vietnam in a bid to prevent and control the spread of disease in the wider community,” the spokeswoman said. 

The country is keen to continue receiving understanding and sharing, whilst working in close co-ordination with other nations globally to implement these difficult decisions.

As a result, Vietnam will continue to monitor closely developments concerning the epidemic in order to make prompt and appropriate adjustments in accordance to the manner in which the situation develops.

The remarks come after another question by a reporter on the same day asking whether or not there is discrimination against foreigners in the context of the COVID-19 epidemic. The spokesperson replied, “With the highest purpose of ensuring the safety and health of Vietnamese and foreign citizens in Vietnam under the direction of the government, ministries, departments, and localities, the nation has implemented a score of effective measures to contain the disease.

In the humanitarian spirit, the government of Vietnam has paid attention and provided support so that foreigners within the country, as well as Vietnamese people, are able to ensure a normal and safe life while being subject to monitoring and intensive treatment if needed. The activities launched by the Vietnamese government have earned plaudits from foreign citizens, governments, and the international community,” she said.

 “Vietnam would like to thank other countries and territories for working closely and regularly providing information on the situation of Vietnamese citizens abroad, allowing to create favourable conditions to solve the difficulties caused by the epidemic, and at the same providing intensive treatment for those who have been unfortunately infected.

 “We hope that this humanitarian, fair, and non-discriminatory spirit will continue to be maintained and replicated around the world so that citizens in all countries and territories will be guaranteed security, safety, and stable health conditions wherever they are.  We believe that with the efforts and co-operation of the international community, the COVID-19 epidemic will soon be repelled,” Hang added.