Decision No. 1825/2008/QD-TTCP on Issuing the Regulation on Foreign Activities of the Government Inspectorate

Pursuant to …;

Regarding the issuance of the Regulation on the external activities of the Government Inspectorate

______________________

GENERAL INSPECTOR

Pursuant to the Inspector Law 2004;

Pursuant to the Law on Signing, Joining and Implementing International Treaties 2005;

Pursuant to the Ordinance on Signing and Implementing International Agreements 2007;

Pursuant to Decree No. 178/2007/NĐ-CP dated December 3, 2007 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of Ministries and Ministerial-Level Agencies;

Pursuant to Decree No. 65/2008/NĐ-CP dated May 20, 2008 of the Government stipulating the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Government Inspectorate;

Pursuant to Decree No. 136/2007/NĐ-CP dated August 17, 2007 of the Government stipulating the exit and entry of Vietnamese citizens;

Pursuant to Decree No. 131/2006/NĐ-CP dated November 9, 2006 of the Government promulgating the Regulation on the use of official development assistance;

Considering the proposal of the Director of the International Cooperation Department and the Director of the Organization and Cadres Department of the Government Inspectorate,

Pursuant to …;

Article 1. This Decision promulgates the "Regulation on the external activities of the Government Inspectorate" attached hereto.

Article 2. This Decision shall take effect fifteen days from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.

Article 3. The Directors of the International Cooperation Department, the Organization and Cadres Department, the Office Director, the Department Directors, the Bureau Chiefs, and the Heads of units under the Government Inspectorate shall implement this Decision.

 

REGULATIONS

On the external activities of Tinspections Cgovernment

(Attached to Decision No. 1825/2008/QĐ-TTCP dated August 29, 2008 of the Chief Inspector)

Chapter 1 GENERAL PROVISIONS

Article 1. Scope of application

This Regulation governs the external activities of the Government Inspectorate, including:

1. Signing and implementing international treaties and international cooperation agreements in accordance with current laws;

2. Implementing programs, plans, and projects for cooperation with foreign countries regarding inspection, complaint resolution, and anti-corruption;

3. Mobilizing and coordinating foreign financial support;

4. Organizing conferences, seminars, symposiums, and training sessions on inspection, complaint resolution, and anti-corruption with the participation or funding of foreign organizations and individuals (hereinafter referred to as international conferences and seminars);

5. Organizing outbound missions and welcoming inbound foreign delegations to work with the Government Inspectorate (hereinafter referred to as outbound and inbound delegations);

6. Protocol and reception services for external affairs;

7. Other external activities in accordance with the law and this Regulation.

Article 2 PRINCIPLES OF EXTERNAL ACTIVITIES

The external activities of the Government Inspectorate with international organizations, government and non-governmental organizations, and other foreign organizations and individuals, including Vietnamese citizens working for foreign organizations (hereinafter referred to as foreign partners), must comply with the following principles:

1. Consistent with the policies, guidelines, and policies of the Communist Party of Vietnam and the laws of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam;

2. Safeguarding state secrets and national security in accordance with current laws;

3. Ensuring unified direction by the Chief Inspector over external activities, while decentralizing and emphasizing the responsibility of the Director of the International Cooperation Department, the Heads of units under the Government Inspectorate, and the Program and Project Directors in managing and implementing external activities and international cooperation of the Government Inspectorate;

4. Ensuring effectiveness and practicality, contributing to enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of inspection, complaint resolution, and anti-corruption work of the Government Inspectorate.

Article 3. Competence of the Chief Inspector General

The Chief Inspector General has the following competences:

1. Deciding or submitting to the competent authority for decision on policies and directions for cooperation with foreign countries regarding inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption;

2. Signing or authorizing signing or submitting to the competent level for signing international cooperation agreements;

3. Approving plans to implement international cooperation agreements within the scope of competence;

4. Deciding on the establishment of Program and Project Management Boards and support staff for international cooperation programs and projects in accordance with the program and project documentation;

5. Participating in discussions with the Government, ministries, and sectors on issues related to inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption during negotiations, signing, joining, and implementing international treaties and cooperation agreements;

6. Deciding on other matters concerning external activities within the functions and tasks of the Government Inspectorate.

Article 4. Tasks and Authorities of Units under the Government Inspectorate for External Activities

1. The International Cooperation Department has the following tasks:

a. Assisting the Chief Inspector General in uniformly managing external activities of the Government Inspectorate; advising the Chief Inspector General on international cooperation in inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption and performing tasks and authorities according to the Regulations on Functions, Tasks, Authorities, and Organizational Operations of the International Cooperation Department and this Regulation;

b. Taking the lead and coordinating with the Organization and Cadre Affairs Department and relevant units including the Program and Project Management Board to propose personnel for outbound delegations for the Chief Inspector General's consideration and decision; completing necessary administrative procedures after the Chief Inspector General's decision to ensure smooth travel for outbound delegations, including those under cooperation programs and projects; reviewing cadre files in accordance with the internal political protection regulations;

2. The Office of the Government Inspectorate coordinates with the International Cooperation Department to implement the annual international cooperation plan of the Government Inspectorate; preparing, drafting, and processing approval procedures for annual funding from the state budget for external activities of the Government Inspectorate; processing requests for counterpart funding for approved programs and projects; guiding subordinate units of the Government Inspectorate on financial regulations in the field of external finance and financial settlement for external activities; organizing reception and farewell ceremonies for inbound and outbound delegations; preparing meeting venues and equipment when external activities are conducted at the Government Inspectorate; serving international conferences, seminars, talks, signing of international cooperation agreements, and managing the Government Inspectorate's Diplomatic Notebook in accordance with this Regulation;

3. Departments and units under the Government Inspectorate, within their respective functions and tasks, coordinate with the International Cooperation Department to carry out external activities and international cooperation as assigned by the Chief Inspector General based on this Regulation;

4. Units implementing international cooperation agreements and Program and Project Management Boards have the responsibility to:

a. Coordinate with the International Cooperation Department and units under the Government Inspectorate to advise the Chief Inspector General on decisions or submissions to competent authorities for decisions on issues related to the implementation of international cooperation agreements in accordance with the law;

b. Organizing the implementation of international cooperation agreements strictly in accordance with the approved content, program, and plan by the Chief Inspector General and being responsible for the progress and results of the agreement's implementation;

c. Reporting periodically every six months, annually, or ad hoc as required by the Chief Inspector General on the situation of international cooperation agreement implementation, evaluating results, shortcomings, and proposing follow-up solutions; this report is simultaneously copied to the Head of the International Cooperation Department for consolidation and overall monitoring;

d. Being subject to guidance, urging, and inspection by the International Cooperation Department in external activities and international cooperation in inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption;

e. Strictly complying with regulations on external activities.

Chapter 2 ANNUAL FOREIGN RELATIONS ACTIVITIES PLAN

Article 5. BASIS FOR ESTABLISHING THE ANNUAL FOREIGN RELATIONS ACTIVITIES PLAN

The Government Inspectorate establishes the annual foreign relations activities plan based on the Party's guidelines, policies, and state laws regarding international cooperation in inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption, as well as the direction and tasks of the Inspection sector.

Article 6. ESTABLISHING THE ANNUAL FOREIGN RELATIONS ACTIVITIES PLAN

1. Units under the Government Inspectorate, based on their functions, tasks, and needs for foreign relations activities, are responsible for drafting specific plans for the next year's foreign relations activities to be sent to the International Cooperation Department for consolidation.

2. The International Cooperation Department bases its establishment of the Government Inspectorate’s annual foreign relations activities plan on Article 5 of this Regulation. Based on the opinions of units under the Government Inspectorate, no later than November 30 each year, the International Cooperation Department proposes the Government Inspectorate’s annual foreign relations activities plan to report to the Party Committee of the Government Inspectorate and the Chief Inspector for approval.

Article 7. CONTENT OF THE ANNUAL FOREIGN RELATIONS ACTIVITIES PLAN

1. The content of the annual foreign relations activities plan includes:

a. International cooperation agreements expected to be signed;

b. Projects for cooperation in inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption expected to be implemented;

c. Outbound and inbound delegations (official and unofficial);

d. International conferences and seminars on inspection, complaint resolution, denunciation handling, and anti-corruption.

2. The International Cooperation Department takes the lead and coordinates with departments, bureaus, and units under the Government Inspectorate to effectively implement the annual plan of the Government Inspectorate, while assisting the Chief Inspector in guiding, urging, and inspecting the implementation of this plan.

Chapter 3 SIGNING AND IMPLEMENTATION OF INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AGREEMENTS ON INSPECTION, COMPLAINT RESOLUTION, DENUNCIATION HANDLING, AND ANTI-CORRUPTION

Article 8. DRAFTING INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION AGREEMENTS

1. After reaching agreement with the foreign partner, the International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Legal Affairs Department, relevant units under the Government Inspectorate, and related ministries and sectors to unify the content of the draft international cooperation agreement.

For draft international cooperation agreements prepared by the foreign partner, the International Cooperation Department collaborates with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate and related ministries and sectors to study and propose opinions.

2. For international treaties where the Government Inspectorate is the proposing agency, the International Cooperation Department coordinates with relevant units to draft the document for the Chief Inspector to submit.

3. In cases where the draft international cooperation agreement is an international cooperation program or project receiving foreign government aid or ODA loans from intergovernmental or international organizations, or programs or projects receiving non-governmental aid, the International Cooperation Department is responsible for coordinating with relevant units to prepare and complete necessary procedures according to current laws on managing and using official development assistance or managing and using non-governmental foreign aid, to submit to the Chief Inspector for decision.

4. In cases where the draft international cooperation agreement does not fall within the provisions of Clauses 2 and 3 of this Article, after reaching consensus with the International Cooperation Department, the leading unit submits to the Chief Inspector for consideration and permission to negotiate with the foreign partner.

Article 9. Negotiation of International Cooperation Agreements

1. For International Cooperation Agreements that are international treaties on behalf of the State or on behalf of the Government, after receiving the written authorization from the competent authority to negotiate international treaties and having the negotiation mandate for international treaties, the leading unit shall coordinate with the Department of International Cooperation and related units to propose the composition of the negotiating team to the General Inspector for decision. In cases where representatives from other Ministries and sectors need to participate, the Department of International Cooperation shall assist the General Inspector in coordinating with relevant units to exchange and agree on the content of the International Cooperation Agreement with the representatives of participating Ministries and sectors beforehand.

2. For International Cooperation Agreements signed on behalf of the Government Inspectorate, the Department of International Cooperation shall lead and coordinate with related units under the Government Inspectorate to propose the composition of the negotiating team to the General Inspector for consideration and decision. If the General Inspector authorizes the Deputy General Inspector or the head of a unit under the Government Inspectorate to negotiate, the leading unit shall prepare the delegation letter for submission to the General Inspector for decision at least five working days before the negotiation of the International Cooperation Agreement.

3. For International Cooperation Agreements stipulated in Clause 4, Article 8 of this Regulation, after receiving the opinion of the General Inspector, the leading unit shall coordinate with related units to conduct negotiations with the foreign partner side.

4. During the negotiation process, if complex issues arise or changes occur in the content of the international cooperation agreement, the head of the negotiation team shall be responsible for reporting to the General Inspector for instructions; if the issue falls within the jurisdiction of

5. The results of the negotiation shall be recorded in writing to report to the General Inspector and sent to the Department of International Cooperation for general oversight. Depending on the agreement of the parties, a signature may be affixed to the draft International Cooperation Agreement to record the negotiation results, or a separate memorandum of the negotiation results may be signed. In cases where the content of the draft International Agreement involves other Ministries and sectors, the head of the negotiation team shall send the negotiation results to those Ministries and sectors within ten working days from the end of the negotiation.

6. If the draft International Cooperation Agreement contains provisions contrary to or not provided for in legal documents issued by the National Assembly or the Standing Committee of the National Assembly, the procedures for reviewing the draft International Cooperation Agreement shall be carried out in accordance with the laws on signing, joining, and implementing international treaties.

Article 10. Signing of International Cooperation Agreements

1. For International Cooperation Agreements that are international treaties on behalf of the State or the Government, based on the negotiation results, the Department of International Cooperation shall report to the General Inspector for approval.

2. If the International Agreement is signed on behalf of the Government Inspectorate, based on the written authorization from the competent authority, the Department of International Cooperation shall coordinate with related units to submit to the General Inspector for signing the International Cooperation Agreement. In cases where the General Inspector authorizes the Deputy General Inspector or the head of a unit under the Government Inspectorate to sign the International Cooperation Agreement, the leading unit shall coordinate with the Department of International Cooperation to prepare the delegation letter for submission to the General Inspector for decision at least five working days before signing the International Cooperation Agreement.

3. After signing the International Cooperation Agreement, within ten working days, the leading unit must send copies of the International Cooperation Agreement to related units under the Government Inspectorate for implementation, to the Department of International Cooperation for coordination, and to other agencies as prescribed by law.

4. For International Cooperation Agreements that are international treaties requiring ratification or approval, the Department of International Cooperation shall coordinate with related units to prepare necessary procedures for the General Inspector to report

5. For International Cooperation Agreements organized by the Government Inspectorate for signing at its headquarters or outside its headquarters, the Office of the Government Inspectorate shall be responsible for coordinating with the Department of International Cooperation to prepare necessary conditions for the signing ceremony.

Article 11. Implementation of International Cooperation Agreements

1. Depending on the requirements and contents of each International Cooperation Agreement, the Inspector General shall decide on the leading unit and related units to implement the International Cooperation Agreement. During the implementation of the International Cooperation Agreement, if complex issues arise, the leading unit implementing the International Cooperation Agreement shall be responsible for coordinating with the International Cooperation Department and related units to report to the Inspector General for consideration and decision.

2. For International Cooperation Agreements that are programs or projects receiving financial support or using loans, the leading unit shall coordinate with the International Cooperation Department and the Cadre Organization Department to submit to the Inspector General for issuing a decision to establish a Program Management Board and approve the organizational and operational regulations of the Program Management Board after the program and project documents have been approved by the competent authority.

a. The Program Management Board shall coordinate with the International Cooperation Department to report to the Inspector General on the implementation plan of the signed program or project. After the Inspector General's approval, the report shall be copied to the International Cooperation Department for consolidation and general oversight.

b. The implementation of the program or project shall proceed after the Inspector General approves the plan at each stage within the timeframe of the program or project, based on the activities already determined, and in agreement with the foreign partner.

3. In cases where the Government Inspectorate is one of the beneficiary agencies under the agreement between the Government of Vietnam and the foreign partner, the International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for proposing and reporting to the Inspector General for approval and decision on the unit within the Government Inspectorate to lead the implementation of the aforementioned international cooperation activities. The unit leading the international cooperation activities shall be responsible for complying with the provisions set out in Points a and b of Clause 2 of this Article.

Article 12. Responsibility for Reporting Results of Implementing International Cooperation Agreements

1. Within fifteen working days from the end of each phase of the International Cooperation Agreement, program, or project, or upon termination of the timeframe of the International Cooperation Agreement, program, or project, the leading unit implementing the International Cooperation Agreement, and the Program Management Board shall be responsible for submitting a written report to the Inspector General on the results of implementing the International Cooperation Agreement, program, or project; analyzing and evaluating the outcomes and remaining issues during the implementation of the International Cooperation Agreement, program, or project; proposing subsequent cooperation directions or feasible solutions to enhance the effectiveness of international cooperation activities, and simultaneously copying the report to the International Cooperation Department.

2. In cases where it is necessary to send reports on the results of implementing the International Cooperation Agreement, program, or project to the Prime Minister, relevant Ministries, and sectors, the leading unit implementing the International Cooperation Agreement, and the Program Management Board shall coordinate with the International Cooperation Department to prepare the draft report of the Government Inspectorate.

Article 13. Review of International Cooperation Agreements, Programs, and Projects

In cases where it is necessary to review international cooperation agreements, programs, or projects with foreign countries regarding inspection, complaint resolution, and anti-corruption, the Inspector General shall decide to establish a Review Committee. The Review Committee shall be responsible for studying and reviewing the contents of international cooperation agreements, programs, or projects.

The International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for serving as the permanent body of the Review Committee, preparing the draft review document for submission to the Inspector General for consideration and decision.

Chapter 4 ORGANIZATION OF INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCES AND SEMINARS

Article 14. Procedures for requesting permission to organize international conferences and seminars within the Prime Minister's authority

For international conferences and seminars under the authority to permit by

Article 15. Procedures for requesting permission to organize international conferences and seminars within the Inspector General’s decision-making authority

Units under the Government Inspectorate when organizing international conferences and seminars must comply with the following provisions:

1. For international conferences and seminars included in the Annual Plan on Foreign Activities, within 15 working days before the planned date of the conference or seminar, the unit responsible for organizing the conference or seminar shall send a letter to the Inspector General through the International Cooperation Department regarding the request for permission to organize the conference or seminar. The letter must clearly state the purpose, content, time, and location of the organization; the composition of the organizers; the participants; the conference and seminar budget, and other related issues for the International Cooperation Department to submit to the Inspector General for consideration and decision.

2. For international conferences and seminars not included in the Annual Plan on Foreign Activities, units under the Government Inspectorate that wish to organize such conferences or seminars shall be responsible for sending a letter to the Inspector General through the International Cooperation Department regarding the request for permission to organize the conference or seminar. The letter must clearly state the contents as stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article. After receiving the letter from the unit responsible for organizing the conference or seminar, the International Cooperation Department will submit it to the Inspector General for consideration and decision.

3. Within two working days from the date of receipt of the Inspector General's approval opinion on the permission to organize the conference or seminar, the International Cooperation Department will notify the units of the Inspector General's opinion on the permission to organize the conference or seminar.

4. In cases where the conference and seminar organization budget is sourced from foreign government ODA funds, intergovernmental organizations, international organizations, or non-governmental aid funds without having completed the procedures for receiving aid, the responsible unit must proceed with the procedures for receiving aid according to Clause 3 of Article 8 of this Regulation. After the responsible unit completes the procedures for receiving aid, the request for permission to organize the conference or seminar will be carried out according to the provisions of Clause 1 or Clause 2 of this Article.

Article 16. Procedures for requesting permission to organize international conferences and seminars by foreign agencies and organizations

1. In cases where foreign agencies and organizations propose to organize international conferences and seminars (hereinafter referred to as the proposing agency), the International Cooperation Department, based on the needs of the proposing agency, will conduct research on the content and related activities of the conference or seminar.

Issues to be researched include: purpose, content, time, and location of the organization; composition of the organizers, participants; conference and seminar budget, and other related issues.

Within the latest period of 15 days from the date of receipt of the valid application file of the proposing agency for permission to organize the conference or seminar, the International Cooperation Department will coordinate with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate to report to the Inspector General for consideration and decision.

After being approved by the Inspector General, the Director of the International Cooperation Department will inform the proposing agency of the Inspector General's opinion on the permission to organize the conference or seminar.

2. If the content of the request for permission to organize the conference or seminar falls under the authority to permit by

Article 17. Responsibilities for organizing and managing international conferences and seminars

1. The leading unit of the conference or seminar shall be responsible for:

a) Preparing the contents of documents, reports, presentations, materials, and data at the conference or seminar, as well as the contents of publications issued during the organization of the international conference or seminar;

b) Implementing regulations on protecting confidentiality and information dissemination regarding the conference or seminar;

c) Immediately notifying the competent authority to handle promptly any complex developments during the conference or seminar;

d) Implementing legal provisions on expenditure regimes and financial settlement;

e) Sending a letter requesting procedures for entry and exit formalities for foreign partners to the International Cooperation Department no later than ten days before the scheduled date of the conference or seminar;

f) Proposing arrangements for receptions (if any) and souvenirs for foreign experts in accordance with regulations;

g) Submitting a written report evaluating the results of the conference or seminar to the competent authorities as stipulated and the International Cooperation Department within thirty days after the conclusion of the conference or seminar;

h) Organizing printing, distribution, and exploitation of the outcomes of the conference or seminar in the form of proceedings, reference materials, or other appropriate forms; transferring relevant documents to the Office of the Government Inspectorate for storage and long-term use within thirty working days from the end date of the conference or seminar.

2. The International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for:

a) Handling entry and exit formalities for foreign partners;

b) Cooperating with the leading unit to resolve issues within its jurisdiction or reporting to the Chief Inspector for decisions on problems arising during the organization of the conference or seminar;

c) Sending copies of letters approving the organization of the conference or seminar as stipulated in Articles 15 and 16 of this Regulation to the Ministry of Home Affairs for reporting.

3. Other units under the Government Inspectorate shall be responsible for:

a) Cooperating and creating favorable conditions for the organization of conferences and seminars according to the division of responsibilities by the Chief Inspector;

b) Creating time and reasonably arranging work for staff members of the unit to fully participate in conferences and seminars when invited.

Chapter 5 ORGANIZATION OF DELEGATIONS ABROAD AND WELCOME DELEGATIONS

Article 18. Procedures for Establishing Delegations Abroad

1. Based on the annual plan for external activities, units shall proactively carry out delegation abroad work in accordance with the law and this Regulation.

2. The delegation abroad led by the Chief Inspector:

a) Within the latest forty-five working days before the delegation departs, the International Cooperation Department must complete the application procedures;

b) Within the latest ten working days before the delegation departs, the International Cooperation Department prepares the content for the delegation and reports to the Chief Inspector for approval.

3. The delegation abroad led by the Deputy Chief Inspector:

a) The International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and related units under the Government Inspectorate to review the cadre files in accordance with the internal political protection regulation, propose members of the delegation, and submit to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision;

b) Within the latest ten working days before the delegation departs, the International Cooperation Department prepares the content for the delegation and reports to the head of the delegation.

4. The delegation abroad led by a Department Head or Specialist:

a) For delegations abroad led by a Department Head or Specialist, based on the specific purpose, requirements, and tasks of each delegation, the International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and related units under the Government Inspectorate to propose members of the delegation (which may include representatives from outside the Government Inspectorate or localities), and submit to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision; for delegations consisting of one person, after receiving the proposal from the head of the main unit, the International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department to submit to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision;

b) Within the latest five working days before the delegation departs, the International Cooperation Department must prepare the content for the delegation and complete all procedures for the delegation. In cases where the content of the outbound mission is complex or sensitive, the International Cooperation Department reports to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision.

5. After obtaining agreement

6. For delegations abroad included in the annual plan for external activities, within the latest twenty working days before the scheduled departure date, the International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and related units under the Government Inspectorate to complete all procedures and submit to the Chief Inspector for consideration and signature of the dispatch decision.

For delegations abroad not included in the annual plan for external activities, within the latest ten working days before the scheduled departure date, the International Cooperation Department leads and coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and related units under the Government Inspectorate to complete all procedures and submit to the Chief Inspector for consideration and signature of the dispatch decision. In case of emergency, the International Cooperation Department coordinates with the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and related units to complete the procedures and submit to the Chief Inspector in a timely manner.

7. In cases where civil servants or employees of the Government Inspectorate have a need to travel abroad for personal matters, such civil servants or employees must prepare a report and request permission from the Government Inspectorate leadership to travel abroad for personal reasons in accordance with current laws on entry and exit. The report and request for permission from the Government Inspectorate leadership to travel abroad for personal reasons must be sent through the Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department and must have the confirmation opinion of the Department Head and the head of the unit where the civil servant or employee works. The Cadre and Civil Servant Organization Department submits to the Government Inspectorate leadership for consideration and signature of the permission to travel abroad for personal reasons. The International Cooperation Department assists in completing the procedures for traveling abroad.

8. Strictly prohibit the abuse of the name of the agency or work relations to solicit foreign partners to directly invite oneself to participate in overseas activities for personal gain.

Article 19. Organization of outbound delegations

1. The Head of the delegation shall be responsible to the Chief Inspector General for all activities of the delegation from the time it leaves the country until its return to Vietnam, strictly complying with the regulations of the Party and State on managing outbound delegations and the directives of the Chief Inspector General.

2. For delegations using state budget funds, within the latest five working days before the departure date, the Office of the Government Inspectorate shall complete the procedures for paying air tickets and temporarily advancing funds for the delegation. In cases of urgency due to the nature of the work, the latest deadline for completing these procedures shall not exceed three working days.

3. Within the latest seven working days after the delegation returns to the country, members of the delegation, as assigned by the Chief Inspector General (for delegations headed by the Chief Inspector General), shall be responsible for completing reports to be signed and submitted by the Chief Inspector General.

4. Within ten working days from the date of the delegation's return to the country, all professional files and documents gifted or presented by foreign partners must be transferred to the International Cooperation Department for joint exploitation, utilization, and storage.

5. Within the latest ten working days from the date of the delegation's return to the country, officials, civil servants, and employees who have been on a mission shall be responsible for settling temporary advances to the Office of the Government Inspectorate and returning passports to the International Cooperation Department for management according to current regulations on passport management.

Article 20. Procedures for welcoming delegations of Chief Inspectors General of other countries or equivalent levels

1. Within the latest forty working days before the delegation arrives, the International Cooperation Department shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate to develop a plan for welcoming the delegation, to be reviewed and decided upon by the Chief Inspector General, including:

a) Request for permission letter

b) Plan and program of activities of the delegation;

c) Composition of the Vietnamese delegation participating in welcoming and working sessions;

d) Financial plan for welcoming the delegation.

2. The International Cooperation Department shall arrange interpreters, organize, and guide the delegation to visit and work with central and local agencies according to the approved plan and program of activities.

3. Within the latest ten working days after the delegation leaves Vietnam, the International Cooperation Department shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate to complete a report to the Chief Inspector General on the results of the delegation's activities in Vietnam or submit a report signed by the Chief Inspector General.

4. The International Cooperation Department shall establish a file for the incoming delegation, implement the retention of files according to regulations, and transfer relevant documents (if any) to the Office of the Government Inspectorate for joint exploitation and utilization.

Article 21. Welcoming and farewell ceremonies for delegations of Chief Inspectors General of other countries or equivalent levels

1. The Government Inspectorate shall organize the welcoming ceremony at the airport or international border gate. Representatives from the leadership of the International Cooperation Department and the Office of the Government Inspectorate shall organize the welcoming and escorting of the delegation to their accommodation.

2. At the meeting venue, the Chief Inspector General and members of the Vietnamese welcoming delegation shall meet the visiting delegation in the lobby of the conference room where the meeting will take place. The composition of the Vietnamese delegation shall be arranged according to the guidance of the International Cooperation Department.

3. During the meeting, the Vietnamese side shall correspond to the official composition of the foreign delegation. Seating arrangements shall be made according to diplomatic requirements and the nature of the work. If necessary, the heads of both delegations may meet privately before the meeting.

4. Based on relations or at the request of the foreign delegation, the International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for contacting and preparing reports and completing the necessary procedures for the head of the foreign delegation to meet with Party and State leaders.

5. The Chief Inspector General shall organize a reception for the delegation. The International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for arranging the venue and preparing invitations. The composition of the reception guests shall be decided by the Chief Inspector General. At the end of the reception, the Chief Inspector General shall present commemorative gifts to the head of the delegation and other members of the delegation according to current regulations.

6. Before the delegation departs the country, the Chief Inspector General may bid farewell to the delegation at an appropriate location. Those who welcomed the delegation shall participate in seeing them off at the airport or border gate.

Article 22. Procedures for welcoming delegations of Deputy Inspectors General of other countries or equivalent level

1. Within the latest thirty working days before the delegation arrives, the International Cooperation Department shall coordinate with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate to establish a reception plan in accordance with points b, c, and d Clause 1, Article 20 of this Regulation. Other procedures shall be carried out in accordance with Clauses 2 and 4 of Article 20 of this Regulation.

2. Within the latest ten working days after the foreign delegation leaves Vietnam, the International Cooperation Department shall take the lead and coordinate with relevant units to complete a report on the results of the delegation's activities in Vietnam to submit to the Inspector General.

Article 23. Reception and farewell ceremonies for delegations of Deputy Inspectors General of other countries or equivalent level.

1. Representatives from the leadership of the International Cooperation Department and the Office of the Government Inspectorate shall welcome and escort the delegation to their accommodation.

2. The Deputy Inspector General shall host social meetings and work sessions with the delegation on the main issues of the visit.

3. The Inspector General or the Deputy Inspector General shall organize a banquet for the delegation. The International Cooperation Department shall be responsible for arranging the venue and preparing invitations. The participants in the banquet shall be determined by the Inspector General. At the end of the banquet, the Inspector General or the Deputy Inspector General shall present commemorative gifts to the head of the delegation and other members of the delegation (if applicable).

4. The personnel who welcomed the delegation shall participate in seeing off the delegation at the airport or border gate.

Article 24. Procedures for welcoming and working with delegations at the departmental level or foreign expert delegations.

1. Based on the annual plan for external activities or reports (for delegations not included in the plan) approved by the Inspector General regarding the reception of department-level delegations or expert delegations (hereinafter referred to as expert delegations) entering Vietnam, the International Cooperation Department shall handle entry and exit formalities for the delegation to implement international cooperation programs and projects and other related tasks.

2. The International Cooperation Department and relevant units shall prepare the contents for working with the delegation and take the lead in receiving the delegation; draft a detailed program for welcoming and working with the delegation to submit to the Inspector General for approval.

3. The International Cooperation Department shall coordinate with relevant units to arrange interpreters, organize guidance for the delegation to visit and work with central and local agencies according to the approved program.

4. Within the latest ten working days after the expert delegation leaves Vietnam, the International Cooperation Department and relevant units shall report in writing to the Inspector General on the results of welcoming and working with the delegation.

5. The International Cooperation Department shall coordinate with relevant units to handle entry and exit formalities for the delegation, arrange interpreters, and organize guidance for the delegation to visit and work with central and local agencies according to the approved program.

Article 25. Escorting

1. The Inspector General shall escort foreign delegations meeting with Party and State leaders; in case of emergency, the Inspector General shall appoint the Deputy Inspector General to escort the delegation.

2. For delegations of the Inspector General or equivalent level, the Deputy Inspector General shall escort the delegation during their visit and work in Vietnam. In cases of objective reasons, the Director of the International Cooperation Department or the Head of the relevant unit shall escort the delegation together with one staff member from the International Cooperation Department.

3. For delegations of Deputy Inspector General or equivalent level, the Director of the International Cooperation Department shall escort the delegation during their visit and work in Vietnam. In cases of objective reasons, the Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department or the leader of the relevant unit shall escort the delegation together with one staff member from the International Cooperation Department.

4. For other delegations, the relevant unit shall assign staff to escort the delegation during their visit and work in Vietnam together with one staff member from the International Cooperation Department.

Chapter 6 OTHER FOREIGN RELATIONS ACTIVITIES

Article 26. Cooperation Relations with Inspection Agencies, Complaint Resolution Agencies, and Anti-Corruption Agencies of Other Countries.

The Inspector General directly or authorizes the Director of the International Cooperation Department to exchange with Inspection Agencies, Complaint Resolution Agencies, and Anti-Corruption Agencies of other countries to establish, consolidate, and strengthen cooperation relations.

Article 27. Cooperation Relations with Foreign Partners

The Inspector General authorizes the Director of the International Cooperation Department or, if necessary, authorizes the Head of units under the Government Inspectorate to coordinate with the International Cooperation Department to exchange with foreign partners.

Article 28. Procedures for Receiving Foreign Partners

1. The Inspector General authorizes the Director of the International Cooperation Department to receive and process requests for receiving foreign partners at the Government Inspectorate. Units under the Government Inspectorate that have a need to receive foreign partners shall transfer their requests for receiving foreign partners to the International Cooperation Department for processing. In cases where foreign partners are received according to the request of the Inspectorate General Leadership, the International Cooperation Department coordinates with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate to arrange and organize the meeting.

2. After the Inspectorate General Leadership agrees to receive foreign partners based on the proposal of the Director of the International Cooperation Department, the main unit is responsible for preparing the content for working with foreign partners. The International Cooperation Department arranges interpreters and assigns staff to attend to compile and monitor the proceedings.

3. In cases where the International Cooperation Department hosts foreign partners and the content relates to the functions and responsibilities of another unit under the Government Inspectorate or international cooperation programs/projects, the International Cooperation Department invites representatives from the related unit or international cooperation program/project to attend.

4. Heads of units under the Government Inspectorate receive foreign partners in the following cases:

a) According to the assignment of the Inspector General;

b) According to the proposal of the Director of the International Cooperation Department;

c) Self-proposed and approved by the Inspector General. The Head of the unit under the Government Inspectorate is responsible for hosting the meeting with foreign partners, being accountable for the content, while the International Cooperation Department arranges interpreters and staff to record minutes, sending reports to the Inspector General and retaining them at the International Cooperation Department for compilation and monitoring.

5. In cases of receiving foreign partners as stipulated in Clauses 3 and 4 of this Article, if there is an assignment by the Head of the unit, then the staff members are responsible for receiving foreign partners. They must report in writing to the Head of the unit after the reception. The Head of the unit is responsible for the assignment and the content of the reception of foreign partners by staff members under their unit.

6. The Program/Project Management Board regularly works with foreign partners within the scope of the program/project and is responsible for quarterly reporting to the Inspector General for all activities of the program/project. Reports are copied to the International Cooperation Department for compilation and monitoring.

Article 29. Time limit for handling meetings with foreign partners

1. In cases where meetings with foreign partners are held at the request of the Government Inspectorate's leadership, within three working days from the date of receipt of the leadership's request, the International Cooperation Department shall coordinate with relevant units under the Government Inspectorate or related agencies to propose the time and content of the meeting report to the Government Inspectorate's leadership.

2. For cases involving the receipt and processing of requests from organizations and individuals both domestically and internationally, within three working days from the date of receipt of the request, the International Cooperation Department shall submit to the Government Inspectorate's leadership regarding the meeting with foreign partners, and if the Government Inspectorate's leadership agrees, it shall assign the relevant unit to meet with the foreign partner.

3. In cases where meetings with foreign partners are held at the request of units under the Government Inspectorate, at least seven working days before the scheduled meeting date, the unit under the Government Inspectorate that requires a meeting with foreign partners at the Government Inspectorate must send the request to the International Cooperation Department for submission to the Government Inspectorate's leadership. Within three working days, the International Cooperation Department shall notify about the meeting with foreign partners.

Article 30. Preparation of Content, Form, and Meetings with Foreign Partners

1. The content of exchanges with foreign partners by the leading unit as stipulated in Clause 3 and Clause 4 of Article 28 of this Regulation shall be the responsibility of that unit. If the exchange content is deemed complex or sensitive, the unit meeting with foreign partners shall cooperate with the International Cooperation Department to report to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision.

2. Meetings at the Government Inspectorate shall only be organized in rooms arranged by the Government Inspectorate's Office according to the requirements of the leading unit. Foreign partners shall not be received in the offices of staff members. At least two people must be present during the meeting with foreign partners and comply with the internal regulations for protecting the agency. Staff members assigned to meet with foreign partners must arrive at the meeting place ten minutes early, dressed appropriately and in accordance with diplomatic protocol. Units must maintain a logbook to record all contents of meetings with foreign partners.

3. The International Cooperation Department shall coordinate with the Government Inspectorate's Office to arrange reception services according to the requirements of the leading unit for meetings with foreign partners.

4. Staff members assigned to meet with foreign partners (including meetings outside the Government Inspectorate hosted by other agencies or informal meetings outside regular hours involving work discussions) shall be responsible for recording the full content and reporting to the head of the unit. If the discussion content relates to cooperation relations, the head of the unit must discuss with the International Cooperation Department to report to the Chief Inspector for consideration and decision.

5. Staff members who communicate with foreign partners via telephone, email, or other information exchange means, if the content is related to common work, must promptly and fully report to the head of the unit and the International Cooperation Department.

Article 31. Receiving foreign counterparts outside working hours and outside the Government Inspectorate.

Staff members of the Government Inspectorate may only receive foreign counterparts related to official matters outside working hours and outside the Government Inspectorate when assigned by the unit head and with the approval of the Government Inspectorate leadership.

Article 32. Annual diplomatic reception activities

1. Before November 1st each year, the International Cooperation Department shall prepare a schedule for national days and significant historical anniversaries of countries and international organizations that have cooperative relations with the Government Inspectorate, and report to the Chief Inspector for decisions on sending letters, invitations, diplomatic notes, flowers, or gifts to congratulate.

2. For the national days of countries with which the Government Inspectorate has relations, the International Cooperation Department shall send flower baskets accompanied by visiting cards of the Chief Inspector to the diplomatic missions of those countries. Depending on the level of relations, Government Inspectorate leadership may attend diplomatic receptions hosted by these countries on their national days.

3. For other commemorative activities, the International Cooperation Department shall propose the participation of Government Inspectorate leadership based on the level of relations. Leaders at the departmental level and staff members of units under the Government Inspectorate shall attend according to invitations from foreign counterparts after consulting with the International Cooperation Department.

4. Annually, the International Cooperation Department is responsible for compiling proposals from heads of units under the Government Inspectorate or directors of international cooperation programs and projects regarding forms of recognition for foreigners who have made contributions in the field of cooperation. After obtaining the agreement of the Chief Inspector, the relevant unit heads or program directors shall coordinate with the International Cooperation Department, the Organization and Cadre Affairs Department, and the Inspectorate General Office to complete procedures in accordance with current laws on commendation and reward.

5. Commemorative gifts given to foreign counterparts must be products manufactured in Vietnam, reflecting national cultural characteristics and having commemorative value. Based on proposals from units and external needs, the International Cooperation Department shall plan and submit for approval by Government Inspectorate leadership, and purchase in accordance with regulations of the Ministry of Finance.

Article 33. Attire in diplomatic work

1. Staff members of the Government Inspectorate participating in diplomatic activities must wear appropriate attire for diplomatic protocol.

2. For formal ceremonies, receptions, negotiations, banquets, and farewells organized by the Government Inspectorate and the State, the International Cooperation Department shall provide specific guidance on attire for each event in the invitation or notification of the counterpart meeting.

Article 34. Exchange of Documents

1. Annually, based on proposals from units and work requirements, the International Cooperation Department shall compile a list of books, newspapers, and documents for diplomatic work, report to the Chief Inspector for review and decision, and implement purchases.

2. Units and individuals within the Government Inspectorate, upon receiving documents from foreign agencies, organizations, or individuals, shall transfer them to the International Cooperation Department within ten working days from the date of receipt for translation and shared use.

3. During the process of receiving and handling documents sent by foreign agencies, organizations, or individuals, if units and individuals within the Government Inspectorate discover sensitive or complex issues in the content of the documents, they shall notify the International Cooperation Department for handling.

4. When providing information or documents to foreign individuals or organizations, units and individuals within the Government Inspectorate must obtain the consent of the Chief Inspector.

Article 35. Management of Official Correspondence and Diplomatic Notes

1. Upon receipt of official correspondence or diplomatic notes, the unit under the Government Inspectorate receiving such documents shall directly process them or transfer them to the responsible unit for processing based on their content. If the content of the official correspondence or diplomatic notes falls within the authority of the leadership of the Government Inspectorate, it shall report to the leadership of the Government Inspectorate for consideration and decision.

2. When responding to official correspondence or diplomatic notes within their authority, functional units shall be responsible for sending a copy to the International Cooperation Department for general oversight.

3. Implement the retention system at the Office.

Chapter 7 REPORTING REGIME, RECOGNITION AND DISCIPLINARY MEASURES FOR VIOLATIONS

Article 36. Regular Reporting Regime

1. Before May 1st and November 1st each year, the Director of the International Cooperation Program and Project Management Board and the Heads of units under the Government Inspectorate participating in external activities shall be responsible for submitting reports to the International Cooperation Department on the implementation of external activities for consolidation and reporting to the Chief Inspector.

2. The Head of the International Cooperation Department, the Director of the International Cooperation Program and Project Management Board, or the Heads of related units shall be responsible for submitting ad hoc reports on the implementation of international cooperation activities upon request of the Chief Inspector.

3. In implementing regular reporting, the Director of the International Cooperation Program and Project Management Board and the Heads of related units involved in projects shall be responsible for preparing official correspondence and reports for submission to the Chief Inspector for signature and dispatch.

Article 37. Recognition and Disciplinary Measures for Violations

1. Units and individuals with outstanding achievements in external activities, as stipulated by law and this Regulation, shall be recognized or recommended for recognition according to the law on competition and rewards by the Chief Inspector.

2. Units and individuals violating the provisions of this Regulation shall be subject to disciplinary measures according to the law, depending on the nature and severity of the violation.