The VUFO reported that over the past five years the VUFO has broadened its external activities to help improve the country’s position in the international arena. It has mobilised more than US$1.1 billion from non-governmental organisations. However, the union has run into some difficulties caused by inadequate human resources, and operational conditions.

Addressing the congress, Truong Tan Sang, Politburo member and Standing member of the Secretariat of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, praised the VUFO’s contributions to promoting the State’s external activities as well as the country’s socio-economic development. He proposed that in the next term the union bring into play such activities by renewing operational methods.

The congress elected the presidium comprising 135 members. Vu Xuan Hong was re-elected president of the union. The congress agreed to choose December 17 as the traditional day of the VUFO.