Decree No. 18/2022/NĐ-CP on Diplomatic Etiquette

DECREE

ON DIPLOMATIC ETIQUETTE

Pursuant to the Government Organization Law dated June 19, 2015; the Law Amending and Supplementing Certain Provisions of the Government Organization Law and the Local Administration Organization Law dated November 22, 2019;

local administrative authority on November 22, 2019;

Pursuant to the Security Guard Law dated June 20, 2017;

At the proposal of the Minister of Foreign Affairs;

The Government promulgates the Decree on Diplomatic Etiquette.

PART I

GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of Regulation

1. This Decree stipulates diplomatic etiquette, including:

a) Welcoming and hosting high-level foreign delegations visiting for state purposes, official visits, working visits, internal visits, personal visits, and transit; welcoming and hosting Ministers, Heads of legislative bodies' agencies or equivalent positions, and other international delegations;

b) Seeing off and welcoming Party and State leaders on trips abroad to attend international conferences; congratulatory letters, telegrams of condolences, and greetings from senior leaders;

c) Etiquette for heads of foreign representative offices, including heads of diplomatic missions, consular offices, and heads of international organization representative offices in Vietnam.

2. In special cases, the organizing agency may propose to the competent authority to decide on the organization of welcoming and hosting other types of guests.

Article 2. Applicability

This Decree applies to Party and State agencies, military units, organizations, and individuals related to the implementation of diplomatic etiquette as prescribed in Article 1 of this Decree.

Article 3. Explanation of Terms

Within this Decree, the following terms shall be understood as follows:

1. "Senior Party and State Leaders" include the General Secretary, President, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the National Assembly.

2. "Party and State Leaders" include Senior Party and State Leaders, Politburo members, Central Committee Secretaries, Deputy Prime Ministers, and Deputy Chairmen of the National Assembly.

3. "High-Level Foreign Guests" include Heads of State, Heads of State who are also Leaders of Ruling Parties, Deputy Heads of State, Deputy Heads of State who are also Leaders of Ruling Parties; Heads of Government and their deputies; Heads of Parliament and their deputies, and equivalent levels; other foreign guests specified in this Decree.

4. "Head of Parliament" refers to the Head of the legislative body of countries including the Chairman of the National Assembly, the Chairman of the Senate, the Chairman of the House of Representatives, the Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, and equivalent levels.

5. "Heads of Parliamentary Agencies" include the Heads of Councils and specialized Committees under the Parliament and equivalent levels.

6. "State Visit," "Official Visit," "Working Visit," "Internal Visit," "Personal Visit" are the titles of visits by high-level foreign guests, indicating the nature and level of the visit:

a) "State Visit" is the highest level of state ceremonial treatment applied to: the Head of State of the guest country who is also the Leader of the Ruling Party invited by the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; the Head of State of the guest country invited by the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam; The head of state of the guest country is an invited guest of the President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam;

b) "Official Visit" is a visit by a high-level foreign guest to Vietnam at the formal invitation of Vietnamese Party and State Leaders with lower ceremonial and hospitality measures than a state visit, as specifically provided for in this Decree;

c) "Working Visit" is a visit by a high-level foreign guest to Vietnam at the invitation of Vietnamese Party and State Leaders for work with a program agreed upon by both sides, applying simplified and streamlined hospitality measures;

d) "Internal Visit" is a working visit not reported in the media by high-level foreign guests to Vietnam at the agreement of Vietnamese Party and State Leaders to discuss specific issues in bilateral relations;

đ) "Personal Visit" is a visit for personal purposes, which may also combine the aim of strengthening bilateral relations through personal relationships between Vietnamese Party and State Leaders and high-level foreign guests.

7. "State Welcome Ceremony," "Official Welcome Ceremony," "State Summit," "Official Summit," "State Banquet," "Official Banquet" are key activities in the program of visits by high-level foreign guests hosted by Vietnamese Party and State Leaders.

8. "High-Level Meeting" or "Audience" is a meeting between high-level foreign guests and Vietnamese Party and State Leaders.

9. "Organizing Agency" is the agency responsible for organizing welcoming and hosting foreign delegations and international events.

10. "Special Case" refers to situations where the organizing agency proposes to apply certain hospitality measures stipulated in this Decree or for higher-level guests as specified in this Decree to meet political requirements and approved by the competent authority.

11. "Foreign Representative Office" includes diplomatic missions, consular offices, and representative offices of international organizations within the United Nations system and outside the United Nations system in Vietnam.

12. "Head of Foreign Diplomatic Mission" is the Head of the diplomatic mission including Resident Ambassadors and Non-Resident Ambassadors (hereinafter referred to collectively as Ambassador).

13. "Head of Consular Office" is the Head of the consular office in localities (hereinafter referred to collectively as Consul-General).

14. "Head of International Organization Representative Office in Vietnam" is the Head of international organizations within the United Nations system and outside the United Nations system (hereinafter referred to collectively as Chief Representative).

15. "Anniversary Year," "Other Year" refers to the number of years commemorating (the occasion):

a) "Anniversary Year" is a year ending in "0";

b) "Other Year" is a year ending in other digits.

16. "Guard of Honor" is the arrangement of two or more honor guards; "Honor Guard Formation" is the arrangement of honor guards in two rows.

Article 4. Principles for Implementing Diplomatic Ceremonies

1. The organizing agency responsible for implementing diplomatic ceremonies must comply with the provisions of the Constitution and laws of Vietnam as well as international laws and practices.

2. The organization of diplomatic ceremonies must be uniformly carried out throughout the entire political system, including Party and State agencies, serving political and foreign affairs requirements of the Party and State, affirming the position and leadership role of the Communist Party of Vietnam within the Vietnamese political system.

3. The organizing agency shall propose ceremonial measures for diplomatic activities based on equality and reciprocity; paying attention to handling differences between the political systems, customs, and cultures of Vietnam and those of the visiting country.

4. Special cases shall be implemented according to separate projects and reported to the competent authority for decision.

Chapter II

RECEIVING AND HOSTING HIGH-LEVEL DELEGATIONS FROM ABROAD

PAYING OFFICIAL VISITS

Article 5. Titles for High-Level Visits

1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall agree with the visiting country on the titles for each visit by the Head of State, the Head of State concurrently as the Leader of the Ruling Party, the Prime Minister, Deputy Head of State, Deputy Head of State concurrently as the Party Leader, and Deputy Prime Minister:

a) The Head of State shall undertake visits under one of the following titles: state visit, official visit, internal visit, and personal visit; the Deputy Head of State shall undertake visits under one of the following titles: official visit, working visit, internal visit, and personal visit;

The title of state visit shall only apply to the Head of State and the Head of State concurrently as the Leader of the Ruling Party of the visiting country when they visit Vietnam;

No more than three state-level delegations shall be received in one year. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the visiting country on the program of the visit from three to six months before the visit takes place;

b) The Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister of the visiting country shall undertake visits under one of the following titles: official visit, working visit, internal visit, and personal visit.

2. The Foreign Relations Committee of the National Assembly shall agree with the visiting country on the titles for each visit by the Head of Parliament and Deputy Head of Parliament of the visiting country under one of the following titles: official visit, working visit, internal visit, and personal visit.

Article 6. Receiving and Hosting the Head of State on a State Visit

1. Welcoming at the airport:

a) Composition: Director of the Office President or Minister accompanying, Ambassador of Vietnam to the visiting country, Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, Director of the State Reception Bureau, Director of the Foreign Affairs Department of the Office of the President, and Director of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

- Theme-based activities.

Red carpet laid from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of State of the visiting country;

Arranging honor guard formations on both sides of the red carpet from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of State of the visiting country;

Presenting flowers to the Head of State of the visiting country and Spouse or Consort;

Permitting representatives of the community of the visiting country to welcome the delegation at the airport if requested by the foreign representative office.

2. State Welcoming Ceremony:

a) The President shall preside over the welcoming ceremony;

b) Composition: Spouse or Consort of the President (if the Spouse or Consort of the Head of State of the visiting country is accompanying), Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly, Director of the Office of the President or Minister accompanying, Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, Ambassador of Vietnam to the visiting country; leaders of relevant ministries and sectors corresponding to the composition of the visiting delegation and reception requirements;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

The President and Spouse or Consort shall welcome the Head of State of the visiting country and Spouse or Consort at the parking area of the Head of State of the visiting country;

Children shall present flowers to the Head of State of the visiting country and Spouse or Consort;

Children shall wave flags of both countries;

d) Reviewing the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army:

The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall ascend the honor platform; Spouse or Consort of the President and Spouse or Consort of the Head of State of the visiting country shall be invited to the front row among Vietnamese officials;

Military band plays the national anthem of the visiting country and Vietnam; firing 21-gun salute when playing the national anthems of both countries according to the principle of reciprocity or according to the approved project;

The Commander of the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army shall salute, report, and invite the Head of State of the visiting country to review the Honor Guard;

The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall review the Honor Guard;

The Honor Guard shall wish good health to the Head of State of the visiting country;

The President shall introduce Vietnamese officials participating in the welcoming ceremony to the Head of State of the visiting country and Spouse or Consort. The Head of State of the visiting country shall introduce members of the official delegation to the President and Spouse or Consort;

The Director of the State Reception Bureau shall introduce some Ambassadors (if invited) to both Heads of State and Spouse or Consort;

The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall return to the honor platform. Spouse or Consort of the President and Spouse or Consort of the Head of State of the visiting country shall be invited to the back row behind the honor platform;

The Honor Guard shall parade;

e) After the welcoming ceremony, the President and Spouse or Consort together with the Head of State of the visiting country and Spouse or Consort shall take commemorative photos;

The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall enter the Narrow Meeting Room or State-Level Conference Room. Spouse or Consort of the President shall meet privately with Spouse or Consort of the Head of State of the visiting country;

Arranging honor guard formations in the main lobby;

f) In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the formal welcoming ceremony shall be held at the National Assembly Building. No gun salute shall be fired during the playing of the national anthems of both countries. No parade shall follow the review of the Honor Guard.

3. Narrow Meeting and State-Level Conference:

a) The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall have a narrow meeting prior to the conference as agreed by both parties;

b) The President and the Head of State of the visiting country shall jointly chair the conference;

c) The composition of participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the conference agenda;

d) During restricted meetings and negotiations, arrange for honor guards to be on duty.

4. High-level contacts:

Arrange for the Head of State of the visiting country to have high-level contacts with the General Secretary, Prime Minister, Chairman of the National Assembly, and other leaders as required and under specific conditions of the visit.

5. State banquet:

a) The President shall host the state banquet;

b) Red carpet shall be laid from the banquet room entrance to the vehicle of the Head of State of the visiting country. Arrange for an honor guard formation at the lobby; honor guards on duty;

c) Attendees:

Vietnam side: Spouse of the President (if the spouse of the Head of State of the visiting country is accompanying), Prime Minister, Chairman of the National Assembly, Chairman of the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front, Chief Justice of the Supreme People's Court, Procurator-General of the Supreme People's Procuracy, members of the Government, Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Friendship Organizations, Chairman of the Vietnam-Foreign Country Friendship Association, Chairman of the Vietnam-Foreign Country Parliamentary Friendship Group, attendees of the welcoming ceremony, state-level talks, former Ambassadors of Vietnam to the foreign country, some prominent figures, intellectuals, representatives of enterprises with extensive cooperation with the foreign country, and others;

Invitations for attendees from the Vietnam side to the state banquet shall be based on the composition of the visiting delegation and the political requirements of the visit;

Foreign side: official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the foreign country;

d) Ceremonies:

Military bands play the national anthems of both countries to open the state banquet;

The President delivers a welcoming speech;

The Head of State of the visiting country responds;

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

6. See-off at the airport: the composition and ceremonies shall be carried out as when welcoming.

7. Other special measures that may be implemented according to the reception plan for welcoming the delegation include: mobilizing the public to participate in the welcoming ceremony at the airport or the Presidential Palace; inviting the President and his/her spouse to attend certain formal activities together with the Head of State of the visiting country and his/her spouse; inviting some Ambassadors to attend the state-level welcoming ceremony and state banquet; organizing a cultural performance to welcome at the Hanoi Opera House.

Article 7. Welcoming and hosting the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Ruling Party on a State Visit in accordance with two titles

1. Welcoming and hosting the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Ruling Party on a State Visit upon invitation of the General Secretary and the President shall be organized as follows:

a) The General Secretary shall preside over the welcoming ceremony, restricted meeting, and state banquet for the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Ruling Party (hereinafter referred to as the Head of the Delegation);

b) The President shall co-host the state banquet with the General Secretary, hold a separate meeting, and invite the Head of the Delegation to a private dinner.

2. Welcoming the delegation at the airport:

a) Composition: Head of the Central External Relations Commission, Director of the President's Office or accompanying Minister, Ambassador of Vietnam to the foreign country, Deputy Head of the Central External Relations Commission, Deputy Director of the Central Party Office, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, Director of the State Reception Bureau, Director of the Reception Department of the Central External Relations Commission, Director of the Regional Department of the Central External Relations Commission, Director of the Reception Department of the President's Office, and Director of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

b) Ceremonies: carried out as for the Head of State on a State Visit as stipulated in Clause 1, Point b, Article 6 of this Decree.

3. State-level welcoming ceremony:

a) The General Secretary shall preside over the welcoming ceremony.

b) Composition: Spouse of the General Secretary (if the spouse of the Head of the Delegation is accompanying), Deputy Prime Minister, Deputy Chairman of the National Assembly, Head of the Central External Relations Commission, Director of the President's Office or accompanying Minister, Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, Ambassador of Vietnam to the foreign country; leaders of relevant ministries and sectors corresponding to the composition of the delegation and the welcoming and hosting requirements;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

The General Secretary and his/her spouse shall greet the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse at the Head of the Delegation's vehicle;

Children shall present flowers to the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse;

Children shall wave flags of both countries;

d) Reviewing the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army:

The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall ascend the honor stand; the spouse of the General Secretary and the spouse of the Head of the Delegation shall be invited to the front row among Vietnamese officials;

Military band plays the national anthem of the visiting country and Vietnam; firing 21-gun salute when playing the national anthems of both countries according to the principle of reciprocity or according to the approved project;

The Commander of the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army shall salute, report, and invite the Head of the Delegation to inspect the Honor Guard;

The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall inspect the Honor Guard;

The Honor Guard shall wish good health to the Head of the Delegation;

The General Secretary shall introduce Vietnamese officials participating in the welcoming ceremony to the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse. The Head of the Delegation shall introduce official members of the delegation to the General Secretary and his/her spouse;

The Director of the State Reception Bureau shall introduce some Ambassadors (if invited) to the General Secretary and his/her spouse, the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse;

The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall return to the honor stand. The spouse of the General Secretary and the spouse of the Head of the Delegation shall be invited to the back row of the honor stand;

The Honor Guard shall parade;

d) After the welcoming ceremony, the General Secretary and his/her spouse shall take a commemorative photograph with the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse;

The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall enter the restricted meeting room or state-level negotiation room. The spouse of the General Secretary shall meet privately with the spouse of the Head of the Delegation;

Arrange for an honor guard formation at the main lobby.

f) In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the formal welcoming ceremony shall be held at the National Assembly Building. No gun salute shall be fired during the playing of the national anthems of both countries. No parade shall follow the review of the Honor Guard.

4. Restricted Meeting and State-Level Negotiation:

a) The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall have a restricted meeting before the state-level negotiation as agreed by both sides;

b) The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall jointly chair the state-level negotiation;

c) The composition of participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the conference agenda;

d) During restricted meetings and negotiations, arrange for honor guards to be on duty.

5. High-level Contacts:

Arrange for the Head of the Delegation to have high-level contacts with the President, Prime Minister, Chairman of the National Assembly, and other leaders as required and under specific conditions of the visit.

6. State Banquet:

a) The General Secretary and the President shall host the state banquet;

b) Lay out a red carpet from the entrance of the reception room to the parking area of the head of the visiting delegation. Arrange an honor guard formation in the lobby; post an honor guard at the entrance of the reception room;

c) Participants include:

 Vietnamese side: The spouse of the General Secretary of the Party Central Committee or the spouse of the President of the State (if the spouse of the head of the visiting delegation is accompanying them), the Prime Minister, the Chairman of the National Assembly, the Chairman of the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee, the Chief Justice of the Supreme People's Court, the Procurator-General of the Supreme People's Procuracy, members of the Government, the Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, the Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Friendship Organizations, the Chairman of the Vietnam-Foreign Country Friendship Association, the Chairman of the Vietnam-Foreign Country Parliamentary Friendship Group, participants in the welcoming ceremony and state-level talks, former Ambassadors of Vietnam to the foreign country, some prominent figures, intellectuals, and representatives of enterprises with extensive cooperation with the foreign country;

Invitations for attendees from the Vietnam side to the state banquet shall be based on the composition of the visiting delegation and the political requirements of the visit;

Foreign side: official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the foreign country;

d) Ceremonies:

Military bands play the national anthems of both countries to open the state banquet;

 The General Secretary delivers a welcoming speech;

The head of the visiting delegation responds;

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

7. See-off at the airport: the composition and protocol shall be carried out as when welcoming;

8. Other special measures may be implemented according to the reception plan for the welcoming of the delegation as stipulated in Clause 7, Article 6 of this Decree for a state visit by a Head of State, or according to a separate plan approved by the competent authority;

Article 8. Welcoming and hosting a Head of State on an Official Visit

1. Welcoming at the airport:

a) Composition: the Director of the President's Office or a Minister accompanying, the Ambassador of Vietnam to the foreign country, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Director of the State Reception Bureau, the Director of the Foreign Affairs Department of the President's Office, and the Director of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

- Theme-based activities.

Red carpet laid from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of State of the visiting country;

Arrange an honor guard formation standing on both sides of the red carpet from the foot of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of State of the foreign country;

Present flowers to the Head of State of the foreign country and their spouse;

2. Official welcoming ceremony:

a) The President chairs the official welcoming ceremony;

b) Composition: the spouse of the President (if the spouse of the Head of State of the foreign country is accompanying), the Director of the President's Office or a Minister accompanying, the Ambassador of Vietnam to the foreign country, leaders of relevant ministries and sectors corresponding to the composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements for welcoming and hosting;

c) Ceremonial welcoming and reviewing the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army: carried out as stipulated in Points c, d, đ of Clause 2, Article 6 of this Decree but without firing salutes during the playing of the national anthems of both countries;

d) In case of adverse weather conditions, the official welcoming ceremony will be held at the National Assembly Building. There will be no parade following the review of the Honor Guard;

3. Narrow meeting and formal talks:

a)  The President and the Head of State of the foreign country have a narrow meeting before the formal talks upon agreement between the two sides;

b) The President and the Head of State of the foreign country jointly chair the formal talks;

c) The composition of participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the conference agenda;

d) During restricted meetings and negotiations, arrange for honor guards to be on duty.

4. High-level meetings:

 Arrange for the Head of State of the foreign country to meet high-level officials including the General Secretary, the Prime Minister, the Chairman of the National Assembly, and other leaders as required and based on specific conditions of the visit;

5. Formal banquet:

a) The President shall host the state banquet;

b) Red carpet shall be laid from the banquet room entrance to the vehicle of the Head of State of the visiting country. Arrange for an honor guard formation at the lobby; honor guards on duty;

c) Participants include:

 Vietnamese side: the spouse of the President (if the spouse of the Head of State of the foreign country is accompanying); participants in the welcoming ceremony and formal talks, former Ambassadors of Vietnam to the foreign country. If necessary, invite some prominent figures, intellectuals, and representatives of enterprises with extensive cooperation with the foreign country to attend.

Foreign side: official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the foreign country;

d) Ceremonies:

The President delivers a welcoming speech;

The Head of State of the visiting country responds;

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

6. See-off at the airport: the composition and ceremonies shall be carried out as when welcoming.

Article 9. Welcoming and hosting the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Governing Party on an official visit according to both titles

1. The welcoming and hosting of the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Governing Party on an official visit at the invitation of the General Secretary and the President shall be organized as follows:

a) The General Secretary shall preside over the official welcoming ceremony, formal talks, and official banquet for the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Governing Party (hereinafter referred to as the Head of the Delegation);

b) The President shall co-host the official banquet with the General Secretary, have a separate meeting, and invite the Head of the Delegation to a private dinner.

2. Welcoming the delegation at the airport:

a) Participants: The Head of the Central Foreign Relations Commission, the Director of the President's Office or the Minister accompanying, the Ambassador of Vietnam to the host country, the Deputy Head of the Central Foreign Relations Commission, the Deputy Chief of the Central Party Office, the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Chairman of the People's Committee of Hanoi City, the Director of the National Reception Bureau, the Head of the Reception Department of the Central Foreign Relations Commission, the Head of the Regional Department of the Central Foreign Relations Commission, the Head of the Foreign Affairs Department of the President's Office, and the Head of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

b) Protocol: carried out as for the official visit of the Head of State as stipulated in point b, Clause 1, Article 8 of this Decree.

3. Official Welcoming Ceremony:

a) The General Secretary shall preside over the welcoming ceremony;

b) Participants: The spouse (or husband) of the General Secretary if the spouse (or husband) of the Head of the Delegation is present, the Head of the Central Foreign Relations Commission, the Director of the President's Office or the Minister accompanying, the Ambassador of Vietnam to the host country, leaders of relevant ministries and sectors corresponding to the composition of the delegation and the requirements for welcoming and hosting;

c) The protocol for welcoming and reviewing the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army: carried out as for the official visit of the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Governing Party at the state level as stipulated in points c, d, đ, Clause 3, Article 7 of this Decree but without firing salutes when playing the national anthems of both countries;

d) In case of adverse weather conditions, the official welcoming ceremony will be held at the National Assembly Building. There will be no parade following the review of the Honor Guard;

4. Narrow Meeting and Formal Talks:

a) The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall have a restricted meeting before the state-level negotiation as agreed by both sides;

b) The General Secretary and the Head of the Delegation shall jointly chair the state-level negotiation;

c) The composition of participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the conference agenda;

d) During restricted meetings and negotiations, arrange for honor guards to be on duty.

5. High-level Contacts:

Arrange for the Head of the Delegation to have high-level contacts with the President, Prime Minister, Chairman of the National Assembly, and other leaders as required and under specific conditions of the visit.

6. Official Banquet:

a) The General Secretary and the President shall host the state banquet;

b) Lay out a red carpet from the entrance of the reception room to the parking area of the head of the visiting delegation. Arrange an honor guard formation in the lobby; post an honor guard at the entrance of the reception room;

c) Participants include:

Vietnamese side: The spouse or husband of the General Secretary and the spouse or husband of the President (if the spouse or husband of the Head of the Delegation from the guest country is present); members participating in the official welcoming ceremony and talks, former Ambassadors of Vietnam to the guest country. In case of necessity, some prominent figures, intellectuals, and business representatives with extensive cooperation with the guest country may be invited;

Guest side: Official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the guest country;

d) Ceremonies:

 The General Secretary delivers a welcoming speech;

The head of the visiting delegation responds;

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

7. See-off at the airport: the composition and protocol shall be carried out as when welcoming;

8. Other special measures may be implemented according to the reception plan for welcoming the delegation as approved by the competent authority;

Article 10. Welcoming and hosting the Leader of the Governing Party not holding a state position as a guest of the General Secretary

The welcoming and hosting of the Leader of the Governing Party not holding a state position as a guest of the General Secretary according to the purpose of the visit shall be carried out according to a specific plan. The Central Foreign Relations Commission shall coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs based on the political requirements of the visit to propose appropriate ceremonial measures (equivalent to state-level visits, official visits, working visits, internal visits, personal visits), and submit them for approval by the competent authority.

Article 11. Welcoming the Head of Government on an Official Visit

1. Welcoming at the airport:

a) Participants: Minister accompanying, Ambassador of Vietnam to the host country, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Director of the State Reception Bureau, Department Head of the Regional Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

- Theme-based activities.

Red carpet from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of Government of the host country;

Arrange honor guard formations on both sides of the red carpet from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to the parking area of the Head of Government of the host country;

Present flowers to the Head of Government of the host country and his/her spouse;

2. Official welcoming ceremony:

a) The Prime Minister presides over the official welcoming ceremony;

b) Participants: Spouse of the Prime Minister (if the spouse of the Head of Government of the host country accompanies), Minister, Director of the Government Office, accompanying Minister, Ambassador of Vietnam to the host country; leaders of relevant ministries and sectors corresponding to the composition of the visiting delegation and reception requirements;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

The Prime Minister and his/her spouse welcome the Head of Government of the host country and his/her spouse at the parking area of the Head of Government of the host country;

Children present flowers to the Head of Government of the host country and his/her spouse;

Children shall wave flags of both countries;

d) Reviewing the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army:

The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country ascend the honor platform; the spouse of the Prime Minister and the spouse of the Head of Government of the host country are invited to the front row among Vietnamese officials;

Military band plays the national anthem of the host country and Vietnam's national anthem;

The Commander of the Honor Guard of the Vietnam People's Army salutes, reports, and invites the Head of Government of the host country to inspect the Honor Guard;

The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country inspect the Honor Guard;

The Honor Guard wishes good health to the Head of Government of the host country;

The Prime Minister introduces Vietnamese officials participating in the welcoming ceremony to the Head of Government of the host country and his/her spouse. The Head of Government of the host country introduces members of the delegation to the Prime Minister and his/her spouse;

The Director of the State Reception Bureau introduces some Ambassadors (if invited) to the Prime Minister, the Head of Government of the host country, and his/her spouse;

The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country return to the honor platform. Both spouses are invited to stand behind the honor platform;

The Honor Guard shall parade;

d) After the welcoming ceremony, the Prime Minister and his/her spouse together with the Head of Government of the host country and his/her spouse take commemorative photos at the Government Headquarters;

The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country enter the Narrow Meeting Room or the Official Conference Room. The spouse of the Prime Minister receives separately the spouse of the Head of Government of the host country;

Arranging honor guard formations in the main lobby;

e) In case of unfavorable weather conditions, the official welcoming ceremony will be held at the Government Headquarters. There will be no parade after inspecting the Honor Guard;

3. Narrow meeting and formal talks:

a) The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country have a preliminary meeting before the formal talks as agreed by both parties;

b) The Prime Minister and the Head of Government of the host country jointly chair the formal talks;

c) Participants in the formal talks on the Vietnamese side correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the talk's content;

d) During restricted meetings and negotiations, arrange for honor guards to be on duty.

4. High-level meetings:

Arrange for the Head of Government of the host country to meet with high-level officials including the General Secretary, President, Chairman of the National Assembly, and other leaders according to the specific requirements and conditions of the visit;

5. Formal banquet:

a) The Prime Minister presides over the banquet;

b) Red carpet from the banquet room door to the parking area of the Head of Government of the host country. Arrange honor guard formations in the lobby; honor guard sentry duty;

c) Participants include:

Vietnamese side: Spouse of the Prime Minister (if the spouse of the Head of Government of the host country accompanies), participants in the welcoming and formal talks, former Ambassadors of Vietnam to the host country. If necessary, invite some prominent figures, intellectuals, and business representatives with extensive cooperation with the host country to attend;

Host side: official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials from the diplomatic mission of the host country;

d) Ceremonies:

The Prime Minister delivers a welcoming speech;

The Head of Government of the host country responds.

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

6. See-off at the airport: the composition and ceremonies shall be carried out as when welcoming.

Article 12. Welcoming the Head of Parliament on an Official Visit

1. Welcoming at the airport:

a) Participants: the leader of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly or the leader of the National Assembly Office, representatives of the Parliamentary Friendship Group, the Director of the Protocol Department of the National Assembly Office;

- Theme-based activities.

Red carpet from the bottom of the airplane stairs to the parking area of the Head of the Guest Parliament;

Presenting flowers to the Head of the Guest Parliament and his/her Spouse;

2. Official welcoming ceremony:

a) The Chairman of the National Assembly shall preside over the welcoming ceremony;

b) Participants: the Spouse of the Chairman of the National Assembly (if the Spouse of the Head of the Guest Parliament is accompanying), the Chairperson of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly and the General Secretary-Chairperson of the National Assembly Office, some leaders of the National Assembly and Government agencies, the Parliamentary Friendship Group, some National Assembly delegates corresponding to the official delegation, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

Red carpet from the entrance of the National Assembly Building to the parking area of the Head of the Guest Parliament. Arranging honor guards on both sides of the red carpet;

The Chairman of the National Assembly and his/her Spouse shall welcome the Head of the Guest Parliament and his/her Spouse at the Head's parking area;

Presenting flowers to the Head of the Guest Parliament and his/her Spouse;

d) After the welcoming ceremony, the Chairman of the National Assembly and his/her Spouse shall take photos with the Head of the Guest Parliament and his/her Spouse. The Chairman of the National Assembly and the Head of the Guest Parliament shall enter a meeting room or conference room; the Spouse of the Chairman of the National Assembly and the Spouse of the Head of the Guest Parliament shall bid farewell at the Spouse's parking area;

3. Formal Meeting:

a) The Chairman of the National Assembly and the Head of the Guest Parliament shall jointly chair the formal meeting;

b) Participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official delegation and the requirements of the meeting content;

c) During the meeting, honor guards shall be arranged;

4. High-level meetings:

Arrange for the Head of the Guest Parliament to meet with high-level officials including the General Secretary of the Party Central Committee, the President of the State, the Prime Minister, and other leaders as required and under specific conditions of the visit;

5. Formal banquet:

a) The Chairman of the National Assembly shall preside over the reception banquet;

b) Red carpet from the banquet room door to the parking area of the Head of the Guest Parliament. Arranging honor guards at the lobby and guard duty;

c) Participants:

Vietnam side: the Spouse of the Chairman of the National Assembly (if the Spouse of the Head of the Guest Parliament is accompanying), members who participated in the welcoming ceremony and formal meeting. In case of necessity, invite some National Assembly delegates, prominent figures, intellectuals, and business representatives with extensive cooperation with the guest country;

Foreign side: official members, some attendants, business representatives (if any), and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the foreign country;

d) Ceremonies:

The Chairman of the National Assembly shall deliver a welcoming speech;

The Head of the Guest Parliament shall respond;

f) Organize a cultural performance to welcome at the state banquet.

6. See-off at the airport: the composition and ceremonies shall be carried out as when welcoming.

Article 13. Welcoming the Deputy Head of State on an Official Visit

1. Welcoming at the airport:

a) Participants: the Deputy Director of the President's Office, the leader of the State Reception Bureau, the leader of the Foreign Affairs Department of the President's Office, and the leader of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

- Theme-based activities.

Red carpet from the bottom of the airplane stairs to the parking area of the Deputy Head of the Guest State;

Presenting flowers to the Deputy Head of the Guest State and his/her Spouse;

2. Official welcoming ceremony:

a) The Vice President shall preside over the welcoming ceremony;

b) Participants: the Spouse of the Vice President (if the Spouse of the Deputy Head of the Guest State is accompanying), the Deputy Director of the President's Office, members who participated in the formal meeting, the leader of the Foreign Affairs Department of the President's Office, and the leader of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

Red carpet laid across the steps from the main entrance of the Presidential Palace to the parking area of the Deputy Head of the Guest State. Arranging honor guards on both sides of the red carpet;

The Vice President and his/her Spouse shall welcome the Deputy Head of the Guest State and his/her Spouse at the Deputy Head's parking area;

Children shall present flowers to the Deputy Head of the Guest State and his/her Spouse;

The Vice President shall introduce the participants from the Vietnamese side;

The Deputy Head of the Guest State shall introduce the members of the delegation;

d) After the welcoming ceremony, the Vice President and his/her Spouse shall take photos with the Deputy Head of the Guest State and his/her Spouse;

The Vice President and the Deputy Head of the Guest State shall enter the conference room;

The Spouse of the Vice President and the Spouse of the Deputy Head of the Guest State shall bid farewell at the Spouse's parking area;

3. Formal Meeting:

a) The Vice President and the Deputy Head of the Guest State shall jointly chair the meeting;

b) Participants on the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official delegation and the requirements of the meeting content;

4. High-Level Contacts: arranged according to mutual agreement;

5. Formal banquet:

a) The Vice President shall preside over the reception banquet;

b) Participants:

Vietnam side: the Spouse of the Vice President (if the Spouse of the Deputy Head of the Guest State is accompanying), members who participated in the welcoming ceremony and formal meeting. In case of necessity, invite some officials, prominent figures, intellectuals, and business representatives with extensive cooperation with the guest country;

Guest side: official members, some accompanying officials, and some diplomatic staff of the guest country's diplomatic mission;

c) Ceremonies:

The Vice President shall deliver a welcoming speech;

The Deputy Head of the Guest State shall respond;

d) Organize artistic performances at the reception banquet.

6. See-off at the airport: the composition and ceremonies shall be carried out as when welcoming.

Article 14. Welcoming and hosting the Deputy Head of State who is also the Party leader for an official visit under both titles

1. The welcoming and hosting of the Deputy Head of State who is also the Party leader for an official visit upon invitation from the Central Committee Executive Board and the Deputy

a) A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat shall preside over the welcoming ceremony, formal talks, and official banquet for the Deputy Head of State who is also the Party leader (hereinafter referred to as the Head of the Delegation);

b) The Deputy Vice President shall co-host the official banquet with the Secretary of the Central Secretariat; have a private meeting and invite the Head of the Delegation to a family-style meal.

2. Welcoming the delegation at the airport:

a) Composition: The Head or Deputy Head of the Central External Relations Department or equivalent rank, Deputy Director of the President's Office, head of the National Reception Bureau, head of the Regional Division of the Central External Relations Department, head of the Reception Division of the Central External Relations Department, head of the External Affairs Division of the President's Office, head of the Regional Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

- Theme-based activities.

 Lay out a red carpet from the bottom of the aircraft stairs to where the Head of the Delegation's vehicle is parked;

Present flowers to the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse;

3. Official Welcoming Ceremony:

a) A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat shall preside over the welcoming ceremony;

b) Composition: The spouse (or husband) of a Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat if they accompany the Head of the Delegation, the Head or Deputy Head of the Central External Relations Department, Deputy Director of the President's Office, members participating in the official talks, head of the Regional Division of the Central External Relations Department, head of the External Affairs Division of the President's Office, head of the Regional Division of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

c) Welcoming Protocol:

Lay out a red carpet along the steps from the main entrance of the Presidential Residence to where the Head of the Delegation's vehicle is parked. Arrange honor guards on both sides of the red carpet;

A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and their spouse welcome the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse at the vehicle parking location;

Children present flowers to the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse;

A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat introduce the Vietnamese delegation members attending the welcoming ceremony;

The Head of the Delegation introduces the members of the visiting delegation;

d) After the welcoming ceremony, a Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and their spouse together with the Head of the Delegation and his/her spouse take commemorative photographs;

A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the Head of the Delegation enter the conference room;

The spouse (or husband) of a Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the spouse (or husband) of the Head of the Delegation say goodbye at the parking location of the spouse (or husband) of the Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the spouse (or husband) of the Head of the Delegation;

4. Official Talks:

a) A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the Head of the Delegation shall jointly chair the official talks;

b) The composition of the Vietnamese delegation attending the talks shall correspond to the official composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the talk's content.

5. High-level Meetings: arranged according to mutual agreement between the two sides.

6. Official Banquet:

a) A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the Deputy Vice President shall jointly host the official banquet;

b) Participants:

Vietnam side: The spouse (or husband) of a Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat and the spouse (or husband) of the Deputy Vice President (if accompanying the Head of the Delegation), members participating in the welcoming ceremony and official talks. In case of necessity, invite some officials, public figures, intellectuals, and business representatives with extensive cooperation with the visiting country;

Guest side: official members, some accompanying officials, and some diplomatic staff of the guest country's diplomatic mission;

c) Ceremonies:

A Politburo member or the Secretary of the Central Secretariat shall deliver a welcoming speech;

The Head of the Delegation shall respond;

d) At the official banquet, there will be artistic performances to welcome the delegation.

7. See-off at the airport: the composition and protocol shall be carried out as when welcoming;

Article 15. Welcoming and receiving the deputy of the Head of Government, the deputy of the Head of Parliament, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the visiting country.

1. At the airport:

a) The head of the Department of Foreign Ministry shall welcome and see off the deputy of the Head of Government and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the visiting country;

b) The head of the Department of the National Assembly Office shall welcome and see off the deputy of the Head of Parliament of the visiting country.

2. Welcoming ceremony, talks, banquet:

a) The head of the Department of Foreign Ministry shall welcome and see off the deputy of the Head of Government and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the visiting country;

b) Welcoming ceremony: welcoming and taking group photos with the deputy of the Head of Government, the deputy of the Head of Parliament, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the visiting country;

c) Participants from Vietnam for the welcoming ceremony and talks: corresponding to the composition of the visiting delegation and the requirements of the discussion content;

d) Banquet:

From the Vietnamese side: members participating in the welcoming ceremony and formal talks. In case of necessity, some prominent figures, intellectuals, and representatives of enterprises with extensive cooperation with the visiting country may be invited to attend;

From the guest side: official members, some attendants, and some diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the visiting country;

The host makes a toast;

The Head of the Delegation shall respond;

In special cases, cultural performances may be organized during the banquet.

3. High-level meetings: according to agreement between both sides.

Chapter III

WELCOMING AND RECEIVING DELEGATIONS OF FOREIGN COUNTRY VISITING FOR WORK, INTERNAL VISIT, PERSONAL VISIT, AND OVERFLIGHT

Article 16. Welcoming and receiving high-level guests from foreign countries visiting for work

1. Welcoming and receiving the Head of Government of the visiting country for work shall be carried out as for an official visit but without organizing an official welcoming ceremony, street decoration, ceremonial guard formation at the airport, or motorcycle escort.

2. Welcoming and receiving the Head of Parliament of the visiting country for work shall be carried out as for an official visit but without organizing an official welcoming ceremony or motorcycle escort.

3. Welcoming and receiving the Deputy Head of State, Deputy Head of State who is also the leader of the ruling party, the deputy of the Head of Government, and the deputy of the Head of Parliament of the visiting country for work shall be carried out as for an official visit but without organizing an official welcoming ceremony.

4. Lunch or dinner during work visits:

a) Participants at the meal:

From the Vietnamese side: members participating in welcoming, seeing off, and working sessions;

From the guest side: official members, some attendants, and diplomatic officials of the diplomatic mission of the visiting country;

b) The host makes a toast, and the Head of the Delegation responds.

Article 17. Welcoming and receiving high-level guests from foreign countries visiting internally

Welcoming and receiving high-level guests from foreign countries visiting internally shall be carried out as for work visits but with a narrower attendance. Reception measures shall be implemented according to the approved reception plan.

Article 18. Welcoming and receiving high-level guests from foreign countries on personal visits

Welcoming and receiving high-level guests from foreign countries on personal visits shall be carried out as follows:

1. For the Head of State and the Head of Government on personal visits: the Director of the State Protocol Bureau and the Department Head of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall welcome and see off at the airport.

2. For the Head of State who is also the Head of the Ruling Party on a personal visit: the Head or Deputy Head of the Central External Relations Board shall welcome and see off at the airport.

3. For the Deputy Head of State and the Deputy Prime Minister on a personal visit: the head of the State Protocol Bureau and the head of the Regional Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall welcome and see off at the airport.

4. For the Deputy Head of State who is also the leader of the ruling party: a representative of the Central External Relations Board shall welcome and see off at the airport.

5. For the Head of Parliament and the deputy of the Head of Parliament on a personal visit: the head of the Department of the National Assembly Office shall welcome and see off at the airport.

6. In special cases, the equivalent level leader of Vietnam may meet and invite the Head of the Delegation to lunch.

Article 19. Welcoming and hosting foreign senior officials transiting

The welcoming and hosting of foreign senior officials transiting shall be carried out according to the following provisions:

1. For the Head of State of the visiting country transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The Director of the President's Office or equivalent shall welcome and host.

2. For the Head of State who is also the Head of the Ruling Party transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The Head of the Central External Relations Commission shall welcome and host.

3. For the Head of Government of the visiting country transiting at Noi Bai Airport: A Minister or equivalent shall welcome and host.

4. For the Deputy Head of State of the visiting country transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The Deputy Director of the President's Office or equivalent shall welcome and host.

5. For the Deputy Head of State who is also the leader of the ruling party of the visiting country transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The Head or Deputy Head of the Central External Relations Commission or equivalent shall welcome and host.

6. For the Deputy Head of Government of the visiting country transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The Deputy Director of the Government Office or equivalent shall welcome and host.

7. For delegations of foreign parliaments and international parliamentary organizations transiting at Noi Bai Airport: The leader of the Foreign Affairs Committee or the National Assembly Office shall welcome and host.

8. For senior foreign officials transiting at local airports: The leaders of provinces or centrally governed cities shall welcome and host.

9. If a delegation of senior foreign officials requests to stay overnight, the lead agency shall coordinate with the foreign representative agency to arrange accommodation and transportation for the delegation.

10. By mutual agreement, an equivalent or lower rank may be arranged to host meetings and entertain the delegation.

Chapter IV

WELCOMING AND HOSTING MINISTERS AND HEADS OF PARLIAMENTARY BODIES AND OTHER GUESTS

Article 20. Welcoming and hosting Ministers and Heads of Parliamentary Bodies or equivalents

1. Welcoming and hosting Ministers or equivalents:

a) The head of the Department or Division responsible for external affairs or the reception unit of the inviting Ministry or agency shall welcome and see off the delegation at the airport;

b) The Minister or equivalent inviting guest shall preside over welcoming, hosting, meeting, and entertaining the delegation;

c) High-level meetings shall be arranged according to mutual agreement;

d) The composition of participants in formal activities shall be decided by the Minister or equivalent inviting guest.

2. Welcoming and hosting Heads of Parliamentary Bodies or equivalents:

a) The head of the Division of the National Assembly Office shall welcome and see off the delegation at the airport;

b) The Chairman of the relevant Committee or equivalent inviting guest shall preside over welcoming, hosting, meeting, and entertaining the delegation;

c) High-level meetings shall be arranged according to mutual agreement;

d) The composition of participants in formal activities shall be decided by the Chairman of the Committee or equivalent inviting guest.

3. The Ministry of Defense and the Ministry of Public Security shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant ministries and sectors to establish regulations on ceremonial welcoming and hosting of the Minister of Defense, the Minister of Public Security, and the leadership of the armed forces of the visiting country, in accordance with international practice and the level of welcoming and hosting of guests as stipulated in this Decree.

Article 21. Welcoming and hosting other guests

1. For the President of the European Council visiting officially or for work as a guest of the President, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Head of State of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit.

2. For the President of the European Commission visiting officially or for work as a guest of the Prime Minister, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Head of Government of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit. For the Vice-President of the European Commission visiting officially or for work as a guest of the Deputy Prime Minister, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Deputy Head of Government of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit.

3. For the Secretary-General of the United Nations visiting officially or for work as a guest of the President, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Head of State of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit but without organizing a national anthem performance and honor guard review. For the Deputy Secretary-General of the United Nations visiting officially or for work as a guest of the Vice-President, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Deputy Head of State of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit.

4. For the President of the World Parliamentary Union (IPU), the President of the Southeast Asian Parliamentarians' Council (AIPA), and other inter-parliamentary forums visiting officially or for work as a guest of the Chairman of the National Assembly, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Head of Parliament of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit. For the Vice-President of the World Parliamentary Union (IPU) visiting officially or for work as a guest of the Vice-Chairman of the National Assembly, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Deputy Head of Parliament of the visiting country according to the nature of the visit.

5. For the Heir to the Throne of the visiting country as a guest of the Vice-President, the level and ceremony of welcoming and hosting shall be carried out as for the Deputy Head of State of the visiting country.

6. The leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall host and welcome other members of the foreign royal family as guests of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

7. Leaders of foreign royal families leading economic, cultural, social delegations, and heads of specialized international organizations outside the UN system as guests of which ministry or sector shall be hosted and welcomed by the leadership of that ministry or sector.

8. Leaders of specialized international organizations outside the UN system as guests of which ministry or sector shall be hosted and welcomed by the leadership of that ministry or sector.

9. For the Secretary-General of ASEAN as a guest of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, the level and ceremony of welcoming shall be carried out as for a delegation of Foreign Ministers visiting officially.

10. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall organize welcoming and hosting former Heads of State, Heads of Government, Deputy Heads of State,Deputy Prime Ministers of the visiting country invited to visit Vietnam by the President, Prime Minister, Vice-President, Deputy Prime Minister.

11. The Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly and the Office of the National Assembly shall take the lead in organizing the reception and welcoming of former Heads of State Guests' Parliament, Deputy Heads of State Guests' Parliament, the Secretary-General of AIPA, IPU, and inter-parliamentary organizations visiting upon the invitation of the Head of State Guests' Parliament, the Secretary-General of AIPA, IPU, and inter-parliamentary organizations visiting upon the invitation of the Chairman of the National Assembly, Vice-Chairman of the National Assembly.

12. Former Heads of State, Heads of Government, Heads of Parliament, Deputy Heads of State, Deputies to Heads of Government, and Deputies to Heads of Parliament of guest countries who are invited guests shall be received and welcomed by the relevant agency which shall take the lead in such activities.

13. Arrange for Party and State leaders to meet with the head of the guest delegation according to specific requirements and conditions of the visit.

Chapter V

 SOME SPECIFIC PROVISIONS ON ETIQUETTE FOR RECEIVING AND WELCOMING FOREIGN DELEGATIONS

Article 22. Placing wreaths at the Monument to Martyrs and Placing wreaths and paying homage at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

1. The placing of wreaths at the Monument and the placing of wreaths and paying homage at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum shall be arranged according to mutual agreement.

2. For Heads of State, Heads of State concurrently serving as Heads of Ruling Parties, Heads of Government, and Heads of Parliament of guest countries on state visits, official visits, or working visits:

a) At the Monument, the leadership of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Command shall welcome and guide the delegation; arrange an honor guard formation. During the moment of silence, military music plays "The Soul of the Soldier";
b) At the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the leadership of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Command shall welcome and guide the delegation in placing wreaths and paying homage to President Ho Chi Minh; arrange an honor guard formation standing on both sides of the grandstand and in front of the mausoleum entrance. During the moment of silence, military music plays "Leader's Song".

3. For other foreign guests from the level of Minister or equivalent and above, the leadership of the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Protection Command shall guide the delegation in placing wreaths at the Monument and placing wreaths and paying homage at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum.

Article 23. Accompanying personnel and order of etiquette

1. Accompanying personnel:

a) The Head of the Central Foreign Relations Board shall accompany the Head of State concurrently serving as the Head of the Ruling Party of the guest country on a state visit or official visit; in special cases, invite a Politburo Member or a Central Committee Secretary to accompany the delegation;

b) The Director of the President's Office or a Minister or equivalent shall accompany the Head of State of the guest country on a state visit or official visit;

c) A Minister or equivalent shall accompany the Head of Government of the guest country on an official visit in Hanoi; the Ambassador of Vietnam to the guest country shall accompany the delegation to localities;

d) The Head or Deputy Head of the National Assembly's Foreign Relations Committee or the Chairman of the Parliamentary Friendship Group shall accompany the Head of Parliament of the guest country on an official visit;

đ) The Head or Deputy Head of the Central Foreign Relations Board of the Party or equivalent shall accompany the Deputy Head of State concurrently serving as a Party leader of the guest country on an official visit;

e) Accompanying personnel for the head of the guest delegation shall participate in welcoming and seeing off the delegation at the airport, formal welcoming ceremonies, and accompanying the head of the guest delegation in official activities. Accompanying personnel for the spouse or partner of the head of the guest delegation shall participate in welcoming and seeing off the delegation at the airport, formal welcoming ceremonies, and accompanying the spouse or partner of the head of the guest delegation in separate activities in Hanoi according to the program;

g) The Ambassador of Vietnam to the guest country returning to the country shall participate in welcoming, receiving, and accompanying the Head of State, Head of State concurrently serving as the Head of the Ruling Party, and the Head of Government of the guest country on state visits, official visits, or working visits. In special cases, the leading agency shall consult and reach consensus with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

2. Order of etiquette for the Ambassador of Vietnam to the guest country:

In diplomatic activities, the order of etiquette for the Ambassador of Vietnam to the guest country shall be immediately after the Central Committee Members, Members of the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, and members of the Government.

Article 24. Hoisting the National Flag

1. For state visits, official visits by Heads of State, Heads of State who are also Leaders of Ruling Political Parties, and official visits by Heads of Government delegations:

a) Hoist the National Flags of both countries at the entrance of the honor guesthouse at Noi Bai International Airport and local airports where the delegation arrives, at the welcoming ceremony venue, in the conference room, reception room of high-level Party and State leaders, signing room, press conference room, banquet room, along Hung Vuong - Hoang Van Thu - Doc Lap streets (Hanoi), at the residence of the Head of the visiting delegation, and at the places visited by the Head of the delegation;

b) Hoist the combined National Flags of both countries at the gate of the Presidential Palace, at the intersection of Doc Lap - Dien Bien Phu - Chu Van An - One Pillar Pagoda - Ton That Dam streets, and at the intersection of Hung Vuong - Phan Dinh Phung streets (Hanoi);

c) For state visits by the Head of State of the visiting country: hoist the National Flags of both countries along the first two kilometers from Noi Bai International Airport to the city center of Hanoi;

d) In addition to the above provisions, for state visits by the Head of State who is also the Leader of the Ruling Political Party of the visiting country: hoist the combined National Flags of both countries at the gate of the Central Party headquarters.

2. For official visits by the Head of Parliament of the visiting country: hoist the National Flags of both countries at the entrance of the honor guesthouse at Noi Bai International Airport and local airports where the delegation arrives, before the National Assembly building (Doc Lap street), in the conference room, reception room of high-level Party and State leaders, signing room, press conference room, banquet room, at the residence of the Head of the delegation, and at the places visited by the Head of the delegation.

3. For working visits by the Head of Government and the Head of Parliament of the visiting country: hoist the National Flags of both countries at the entrance of the honor guesthouse at Noi Bai International Airport and local airports where the delegation arrives, in the conference room, reception room of high-level Party and State leaders, signing room, press conference room, banquet room, at the residence of the Head of the delegation, and at the places visited by the Head of the delegation.

4. For official visits and working visits by Deputy Heads of State, Deputy Heads of State who are also leaders of the ruling political party of the visiting country: hoist the National Flags of both countries at the entrance of the honor guesthouse at the international airport where the delegation arrives, at the welcoming ceremony venue or reception venue, in the conference room, signing room, press conference room, banquet room, at the residence of the Head of the delegation, and at the places visited by the Head of the delegation. Hoist the combined National Flags of both countries at the Presidential Palace.

5. For official visits and working visits by Deputy Heads of Government, Deputy Heads of Parliament, Ministers of Foreign Affairs, and equivalent level officials of the visiting country: hoist the National Flags of both countries at the reception venue, in the conference room, signing room, press conference room, banquet room, at the residence of the Head of the delegation, and at the places visited by the Head of the delegation.

6. On the conference table from the Ministerial level and equivalent, place small-sized National Flags of both countries.

7. On the conference table of the intergovernmental cooperation committee chaired by a Vice-Minister, and on the conference table of the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, place small-sized National Flags of both countries.

8. On the vehicle of the high-level visiting delegation during state visits, official visits, and working visits, and on the vehicle of the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Defense, Public Security during official visits, fly the flags of both countries.

9. In the reception room, hoist the National Flags of both countries when receiving guests from the Ministerial level and equivalent (receiving peers); in cases where the guest's rank is lower than that of the host, only hoist the Vietnamese National Flag.

10. For internal visits, personal visits, and transit visits by high-level foreign guests: do not hoist the National Flags of both countries during activities, except in special cases approved by a project.

11. When hoisting the Vietnamese National Flag and the National Flag of the visiting country or the Vietnamese National Flag and the flag of an international organization during external activities, the Vietnamese National Flag should be on the right side, and the National Flag of the visiting country or the flag of the international organization on the left side, viewed from outside or below. The National Flags and the flags of Heads of State must be made according to regulations, with correct models, and hung horizontally.

12. In case of welcoming two delegations at the same time, the Vietnamese National Flag should be placed in the middle, and the National Flags of the visiting countries should be arranged alternately on the left and right sides of the Vietnamese National Flag, in alphabetical order of the English names of the countries, viewed from outside or below, except in special cases approved by a project.

13. For visits by the King, Queen, or members of the Royal Family of the visiting country, if the visiting side requests the use of the Royal Standard, the welcoming and hosting agency shall comply with the request of the visiting side.

Article 25. Reception Lounge for Foreign Guests at Airports

1. At international airports in Hanoi City, Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City, and other localities, airport management agencies shall arrange reception lounges to welcome and host foreign delegations at the level of senior officials including ministers, heads of legislative bodies, and equivalent levels from foreign countries.

2. Reception lounges shall be arranged to welcome delegations at the level of ministers, heads of legislative bodies, and equivalent levels from foreign countries traveling on commercial flights based on the actual conditions of the airport.

Article 26. Escort Motorcycles and Police Lead Cars

1. The vehicle of the Head of State or Government of a visiting country at the state or official level shall be escorted by nine motorcycles and led by a police car.

2. The vehicle of the Head of Government of a visiting country at the official level shall be escorted by seven motorcycles and led by a police car.

3. The vehicle of the Head of Legislature of a visiting country at the official level shall be escorted by five motorcycles and led by a police car.

4. Escort motorcycles shall only be applied when welcoming and seeing off at airports and during formal activities within the inner districts of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

5. For personal visits of the Head of State or Government who is also the head of the ruling party, working visits, internal visits, and personal visits of the Head of Government and the Head of Legislature of a visiting country, there shall be a police car leading the vehicle during major activities without escort motorcycles.

6. For official, working, internal, and personal visits of the Deputy Head of State or Government who is also a party leader, deputy Heads of Government, deputy Heads of Legislature, and Minister of Foreign Affairs of a visiting country, there shall be a police car leading the vehicle during major activities.

7. For official and working visits of Ministers, Heads of legislative bodies, and equivalent levels of a visiting country, there shall be a police car leading the vehicle during major activities.

Article 27. Hospitality

1. Hospitality for foreign delegations visiting Vietnam shall be carried out according to Vietnamese regulations and on a reciprocal basis.

2. Accommodation Hospitality:

a) Hospitality for the Head of State or Government who is also the head of the ruling party and spouse or partner during state or official visits with nine official members at a five-star hotel for a maximum of five days and four nights (including a maximum of three nights in Hanoi).

b) Hospitality for the Head of Government and spouse or partner, Head of Legislature and spouse or partner during official visits with five official members at a five-star hotel for a maximum of five days and four nights (including a maximum of three nights in Hanoi).

c) Hospitality for the Deputy Head of State or Government who is also a party leader and spouse or partner, deputy Heads of Government and spouse or partner, deputy Heads of Legislature and spouse or partner, Minister of Foreign Affairs and spouse or partner during official visits with two accompanying members for a maximum of three days and two nights.

d) Hospitality for Ministers and equivalent levels and Heads of legislative bodies during official visits shall be implemented according to the approved reception plan.

3. Vehicle Hospitality:

 Vehicle hospitality for delegations shall follow the principles below:

a) Official state vehicles for the Head of State or Government who is also the head of the ruling party and spouse or partner; Head of Government and spouse or partner during activities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City; four-seater cars in other localities.

b) Four-seater cars for the Head of Legislature.

c) Four-seater cars for the Deputy Head of State or Government who is also a party leader, deputy Heads of Government, deputy Heads of Legislature; Minister of Foreign Affairs.

d) Four-seater cars for Ministers and equivalent levels and Heads of legislative bodies and equivalent levels during official visits. For accompanying Ministers and equivalent levels of a high-level foreign delegation, two people shall share one car.

e) Four-seater cars for spouses or partners of high-level foreign guests according to a separate program.

f) Multi-seat cars for other delegation members.

g) Luggage cars for the Head of Delegation and spouse or partner (for delegations of the Head of State or Government who is also the head of the ruling party, Head of Government, and Head of Legislature).

h) Luggage cars for the delegation following the principle of reciprocity.

4. In special cases, the organizing agency shall propose to the competent authority regarding different hospitality arrangements and reception expenses according to the program.

5. For working visits, internal visits, and personal visits: the hospitality regime shall be applied according to the specific requirements and conditions of the visit.

6. Hospitality for individuals not covered by this Decree shall be carried out according to the reception plan or the decision of the competent authority, and the expenditure level shall be applied according to the regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 28. Gifts

1. For high-level foreign delegations visiting at the state level, on official visits, for work purposes, Party and State leaders, and the main organizing agencies shall present gifts to the heads of the delegations and their spouses. In special cases, gifts may be arranged for official members and accompanying personnel according to approved plans.

2. The gifts specified in Clause 1 of this Article must be products manufactured in Vietnam, reflecting the national cultural identity, dignified, and economical.

Article 29. Welcoming and seeing off high-level foreign delegations by road, rail, and waterway

Welcoming and seeing off high-level foreign delegations arriving and departing by road, rail, and waterway shall be carried out similarly to those by air but adapted to the actual conditions of the location where the event is organized.

Article 30. Welcoming and hosting foreign visitors to localities

1. Provinces and centrally governed cities shall organize welcoming and hosting of foreign delegations visiting localities with courtesy, care, safety, and economy.

2. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant ministries and sectors to guide the etiquette for welcoming and hosting foreign visitors to localities in accordance with current regulations.

Article 31. Welcoming and hosting foreign guests attending international events and conferences in Vietnam

Welcoming and hosting foreign guests attending international events and conferences hosted by Vietnam shall be implemented according to approved plans and programs, in compliance with Vietnamese laws, international practices, and specific event practices.

Chapter VI

SOME CEREMONIES RELATED TO PARTY AND STATE LEADERS

Article 32. Arranging for foreign guests to greet Party and State leaders of Vietnam

1. The main organizing agency shall arrange for foreign guests to greet Party leaders through the Central Committee's External Relations Board; greet the President, Vice Presidents through the President's Office; greet the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Ministers through the Government Office; greet the Chairman, Vice Chairmen of the National Assembly through the National Assembly's Foreign Relations Committee. The President and Vice President through the Office of the President; greet the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Ministers through the Government Office; greet the Chairperson and Vice Chairpersons of the National Assembly through the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly.

2. The main organizing agency arranging for foreign guests to greet Party and State leaders shall notify the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related agencies of the results of the meetings for coordination in implementation.

3. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall act as the focal point, through the Central Committee's External Relations Board, the President's Office, the Government Office, and the National Assembly's Foreign Relations Committee to advise, propose, and arrange for Party and State leaders to meet Ambassadors and Chief Representatives. The President, the Government Office, and the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly advise, propose, and arrange for Party and State leaders to meet with Ambassadors and Chief Representatives.

Article 33. Honor Guard Sentry

1. The Command of the Presidential Security Force and the Ministry of Public Security shall arrange for honor guard sentries when the General Secretary, President, Prime Minister, and Chairman of the National Assembly receive foreign guests from the ministerial level and equivalent or higher, and the heads of foreign representative offices in Vietnam. For international events attended by Party and State leaders, it shall be carried out according to the organizational plan approved by the competent authority. For other foreign guests, honor guard sentries shall be arranged upon request of the competent authority. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Chairperson of the National Assembly receive foreign guests at the level of Minister and equivalent, and Chiefs of Foreign Representative Offices in Vietnam. For international events attended by Party and State leaders, implement the organizational plan approved by the competent authority. For other foreign guests, honor guards will be posted upon request of the competent authority.

2. The number and positions of honor guards within the honor guard formation shall be appropriate to the terrain characteristics of each deployment site.

3. Arranging for honor guard sentries when Party and State leaders receive foreign guests shall only be conducted at central agency headquarters, the National Convention Center, the International Convention Center, the Government Guest House in Hanoi, and the Reunification Palace in Ho Chi Minh City.

4. The positions of honor guard sentries shall be appropriate to the terrain characteristics of each deployment site; basic positions include the main entrance hall and main gate of the headquarters, with two honor guards at each position.

Article 34. Sending off and welcoming high-level leaders on visits to international conferences abroad

The composition of personnel for sending off and welcoming the delegation at the airport is specified as follows:

1. The Standing Member of the Secretariat of the Politburo or a member of the Political Bureau shall send off and welcome the General Secretary.

2. The Director or Deputy Director of the Office The President shall send off and welcome the President and Vice President.

3. The Minister, Director, or Deputy Director of the Government Office shall send off and welcome the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Ministers.

4. The Vice Chairman of the National Assembly, the Director or Deputy Director of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly, and the Director or Deputy Director of the National Assembly Office shall send off and welcome the Chairman and Vice Chairmen of the National Assembly.

5. The leader of the Central External Relations Department or the leader of the Central Party Office shall send off and welcome the Standing Member of the Secretariat of the Politburo.

Article 35. Letters of congratulation, telegrams of condolences, and greetings from high-level leaders

1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall take the lead in proposing and drafting letters of congratulation, telegrams of condolences, and greetings from the General Secretary, the President, the Prime Minister, and the Chairman of the National Assembly.

2. The Central External Relations Department shall take the lead and coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to propose and submit telegrams of congratulation and greetings sent by the General Secretary to the Heads of State of some countries and the Leaders of some political parties with special relations for approval by the General Secretary.

3. The Foreign Affairs Committee of the National Assembly shall coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to propose and submit letters of congratulation, greetings, and condolences sent to the Heads of Parliament of countries with special relations for approval and signature by the Chairman of the National Assembly.

Chapter VII

FUNERALS AND WELCOMING CEREMONIES FOR FOREIGN MISSIONS IN VIETNAM

Article 36. Welcoming and seeing off Ambassadors at the beginning and end of their term of service

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall dispatch officials to welcome and see off Ambassadors and arrange a reception room at the airport when they begin and conclude their term of service in Vietnam. No vehicles shall be arranged for welcoming and seeing off at the airport.

Article 37. Presenting Credentials and Letters of Credence

1. Presentation of Credentials by Ambassadors:

a) Ambassadors present their Credentials to the President at the Presidential Palace;

b) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall take the lead and coordinate with the Office of the President and relevant agencies to organize four sessions of presenting Credentials each year, around mid-month of each quarter. In exceptional cases, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs may propose organizing separate sessions for presenting Credentials;

c) Participants in the Ceremony of Presenting Credentials include the Director or Deputy Director of the Office of the President, a Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, the Director of the State Reception Bureau, the head of the Foreign Affairs Division of the Office of the President, and the head of the Department of Foreign Affairs of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs;

d) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall dispatch officials and arrange transportation for the Ambassador to attend the ceremony of presenting Credentials. The vehicle carrying the Ambassador to present Credentials shall be escorted by four motorcycles. After presenting Credentials, the vehicle shall return the Ambassador to the flag-raising site;

đ) A ceremonial guard formation shall be arranged at the entrance of the Presidential Palace to salute the Ambassador upon arrival and departure. A ceremonial guard shall be stationed at the entrance of the room where Credentials are presented to open the door. One ceremonial guard shall be assigned to open the door of the vehicle transporting the Ambassador at the parking location;

e) Prior to presenting Credentials, the Director of the State Reception Bureau of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall meet with the Ambassador to receive a copy of the Credentials and introduce the ceremony of presenting Credentials;

2. Presentation of Letters of Credence by the Resident Coordinator of the United Nations:

a) The Resident Coordinator of the United Nations shall present the Letter of Credence to the Prime Minister at the Government Office;

b) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall take the lead and coordinate with the Government Office and relevant agencies to organize the presentation of the Letter of Credence;

3. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall receive the Letter of Credence from the Consul General.

Article 38. Diplomatic Reception and Farewell for Ambassadors

1. After the Ambassador presents the Letters of Credence to the President of the State, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs arranges for the Ambassador to pay a courtesy call on the General Secretary of the Party, the President of the State, the Prime Minister of the Government, the Chairman of the National Assembly, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs at the request of the diplomatic mission and under permissible conditions.

2. When the Ambassador concludes his term, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs arranges for the Ambassador to bid farewell to the President of the State and leaders of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the request of the diplomatic mission. In special cases, arrangements can be made for a farewell meeting with the General Secretary of the Party, the Prime Minister of the Government, and the Chairman of the National Assembly.

3. Representatives of the leadership of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs invite the Ambassador to a farewell dinner and present gifts when the Ambassador concludes his term of service.

Article 39. Awarding Orders of Friendship and Other Honors

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs takes the lead in proposing the awarding of the Order of Friendship or other appropriate forms of commendation to Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Chiefs of Mission who have made positive contributions to the development of friendly relations and cooperation with Vietnam; it also proposes the authority to award and organizes the award ceremony.

Article 40. Participation of Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Chiefs of Mission in Activities

1. Celebrating National Day on September 2nd in Hanoi.

a) For the round anniversary year:

The General Secretary of the Party, the President of the State, the Prime Minister of the Government, the Chairman of the National Assembly, and their spouses host a reception for Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission and their spouses in Hanoi;

b) For other years:

The President of the State and his or her spouse host a reception for Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission and their spouses in Hanoi;

c) The Ministry of Foreign Affairs organizes a wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument to Martyrs and a wreath-laying ceremony and visit to the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh for Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission in Hanoi;

d) Leaders of provinces and cities where foreign consular offices are located organize meetings with Consuls General.

2. Lunar New Year (Tet).

a) The Prime Minister of the Government and his or her spouse host a reception for Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission and their spouses in Hanoi during the Lunar New Year;

b) Depending on local conditions, provincial and city leaders and their spouses may organize meetings with Consuls General and their spouses during the Lunar New Year;

c) Ministries and sectors do not organize separate meetings with Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission during the Lunar New Year.

3. The Prime Minister receives collectively the Chiefs of Mission from the United Nations system in Hanoi on the occasion of the United Nations Day (October 24) every year.

4. Inviting Ambassadors and Chiefs of Mission in Hanoi to attend the opening session of the National Assembly's sessions.

5. For other major national events, inviting the Heads of foreign representative offices to participate according to the project, program, or request of the competent authorities.

6. Ministries, sectors, and localities organizing events and activities that invite Ambassadors, Consuls General, and Chiefs of Mission must consult and coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs before issuing invitations.

Article 41. Attendance at Diplomatic Receptions Marking National Independence Day and the Establishment of Diplomatic Relations

1. Attending receptions marking the National Independence Day of other countries:

a) For the round anniversary year: the head of the ministry level is the main guest, representing the Government to deliver a congratulatory speech;

b) For other years, the head of the vice-ministry level is the main guest, representing the Government to deliver a congratulatory speech.

2. Attending receptions marking the establishment of diplomatic relations: the head of the vice-ministry level is the main guest, representing the Government to deliver a congratulatory speech. In special cases, implementation follows the approved plan.

3. For other events organized by foreign representative offices: relevant ministries, sectors, and localities cooperate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to propose and seek approval from the competent authority to decide on the attendance of high-level leaders or leaders of ministries, sectors, and localities in accordance with relevant Vietnamese laws, international practices, and specific event practices.

Article 42. Signing the Book of Condolence at Foreign Representative Offices in Hanoi

1. Representatives from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall sign the Book of Condolence when foreign representative offices open it.

2. In special cases, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs shall propose Party and State leaders to sign the Book of Condolence at foreign representative offices.

Chapter VIII

IMPLEMENTING PROVISIONS

Article 43. Effective Date

1. This Decree takes effect from April 10, 2022.

2. This Decree replaces the content on diplomatic ceremonies and reception of foreign guests (from Chapter 8 to Chapter 13) in Decree No. 145/2013/NĐ-CP dated October 29, 2013 of the Government regarding the organization of commemorative days; awarding and receiving commendations and honorary titles; diplomatic ceremonies and reception of foreign guests.

Article 44. Responsibility for Implementation

1. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs:

a) Shall be responsible for unified state management over the implementation of diplomatic ceremonies and reception of foreign guests;

b) Shall propose the level of reception for high-level foreign delegations, international organizations, and other regional organizations not specified in this Decree.

2. The Ministry of Finance shall take the lead, coordinate with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant ministries and agencies to review and amend legal regulations on the reception system for foreign guests working in Vietnam, ensuring consistency.

3. The Ministry of National Defense shall be responsible for arranging:

a) Military bands and honor guards according to regulations at airport welcoming ceremonies; state-level welcoming ceremonies; state-level receptions; state-level banquets; mourning ceremonies at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum; laying wreaths at the Monument to Martyrs;

b) Honor guards according to regulations at summit meetings, state-level negotiations, formal negotiations with Heads of State who are also Leaders of Ruling Parties during state visits and formal visits, and other cases as requested by authorized agencies.

4. Ministry of Public Security:

a) Shall be responsible for arranging honor guards according to regulations at summit meetings; formal negotiations for high-level foreign guest visits, except as provided in Clause 3 of this Article; high-level meetings within the framework of visits; formal banquets; social receptions, meetings, and work sessions between senior Party and State leaders and foreign guests; presentation of Letters of Credence and Letters of Recall, and other cases as required by authorized agencies;

b) Shall be responsible for deploying escort motorcycles and police leading vehicles according to regulations.

5. Heads of Party and State agencies, armed forces units, and related organizations and individuals shall be responsible for implementing this Decree when conducting diplomatic ceremonies and reception of foreign guests./.