Mr Triet made the statement at a reception in Hanoi on December 5 for more than 20 international scholars who have been in Hanoi for an international workshop on Vietnam studies.

“Vietnamese researchers have been studying Vietnam, but it is always important for them to listen to different views from foreign colleagues to more objective in their work,” said Mr Triet.

He called for a liaison body to connect all scholars with interest in Vietnam. He suggested the establishment of a Website on Vietnam studies and a regular organisation of similar workshops in the future to promote the exchange of experiences in the field.

He expressed his wish that the scholars would help Vietnam build a syllabus to teach the Vietnamese language to foreigners.
The scholars applauded Mr Triet’s ideas and said they want to make further contributions to Vietnam’s development, as well as to strengthening ties between Vietnam and other countries.

In-depth studies
The Vietnamese Government requires in-depth studies to scientifically map its strategies and policies, said State Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan at a gathering of Vietnamese and international scientists in Hanoi on December 5.

The country is facing challenges from climate change and the global financial turmoil, in addition to opportunities for socio-economic development, said Ms Doan.

She said she hopes that the worl of scientists will have practical use and that collaboration between Vietnamese and international scientists will be fostered through inter-disciplinary seminars that promote Vietnam studies.

The three-day conference entitled Vietnam-Integration and Development is being co-organised by Hanoi National University and the Vietnam Social Science Institute.