50244 FROM PLAN TO ACTION: ACHIEVING SEDP TARGETS Vietnam Partnership Report 2006 An Informal Report Prepared for the Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam Hanoi, December 14-15, 2006 ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS This volume is the product of teamwork and partnerships in Vietnam, and brings together contributions from many of the joint Government-donor-NGO partnership groups, all working together to help Vietnam achieve its development targets, to improve the co-ordination and to make delivery of Official Development Assistance (ODA) more effective. Its production was only possible through the co-operation, contributions and active support of a wide range of development partners, including Government staff, donors and NGOs. Key contacts (though not necessarily leaders) of the groups, most of which have reported in this volume, are currently as detailed below. Non-inclusion in this volume does not imply non-activity on the part of a partnership group. Poverty Working Group/Poverty Task Force Cao Viet Sinh (MPI); Martin Rama/Doan Hong Quang (World Bank); Nguyen Tien Phong (UNDP) Partnership to support National Target Programs Nguyen Hai Huu/Tran Huu Trung/Tran Phi Tuoc Poverty Reduction (MOLISA); Tran Van Thuat (CEMA); Do Thanh Lam (UNDP) Partnership to Assist the Poorest Communes Vuong Xuan Chinh (MPI) Gender Action Partnership Tran Mai Huong (NCFAW) ISG Environment Nguyen Thi Tho (MoNRE) People's Participation's Working Group Nguyen Thi Le Hoa (Oxfam GB) Partnership on SOE Reform & Equitization Martin Rama (WB); Nguyen Danh Hao (IMF) Partnership Group for SME Promotion and Nguyen Van Trung (MPI); Kazuhiro Iryu (EOJ); Private Sector Development Philippe Scholtes (UNIDO) Financial Sector Working Group Dang Anh Mai (SBV) Trade Reforms Working Group Martin Rama/Nguyen Minh Duc(World Bank) Vietnam Business Forum Sin Foong Wong (IFC) Education Working Group Tran Ba Viet Dzung (MoET); Noala Skinner (UNICEF); Anouk Van-Neck (EC) Health Sector Working Group Le Thi Thu Ha (MoH); Hans Troedsson (WHO) HIV/AIDS Technical Working Group Nancy Fee (UNAIDS) Forest Sector Support Partnership Nguyen Tuong Van/Paula Williams (FSSP&P MARD) Natural Disasters Mitigation Partnership Nguyen Si Nuoi/ Nguyen Thanh Phuong (MARD) ISG-MARD Le Van Minh (MARD-ISG) Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Partnership Le Van Minh (MARD-ISG) Transport Partnership Group Truong Tan Vien (MoT); Masayuki Karasawa (JBIC) HCMC ODAP Trang Trung Son (HCMODAP) Urban Forum Pham Khanh Toan (Ministry of Construction) Legal Reforms Partnership Luu Tien Dung (UNDP) Public Administrative Reform Partnership Pham Van Diem (MoHA); Nguyen Tien Dung (UNDP) Public Financial Management Partnership Nguyen Ba Toan (Ministry of Finance) Partnership group on Aid Effectiveness Ho Quang Minh (MPI) Bo Thi Hong Mai (World Bank) managed production of this volume and coordinated the Theme Notes from the Development Partnership Groups. Photo by Trinh Quang Vinh, Simone D. McCourtie Further copies of this report are available from the Vietnam Development Information Center, Ground Floor, 63 Ly Thai To, Hanoi, and at: www.worldbank.org.vn , www.un.org.vn and www.vdic.org.vn 2 TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW 5 PARTNERSHIP TO SUPPORT THE NATIONAL TARGET PROGRAMMES 9 ISG ENVIRONMENT 14 PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION WORKING GROUP 16 SME PARTNERSHIP GROUP 35 FINANCIAL SECTOR WORKING GROUP 25 EDUCATION SECTOR GROUP 45 FOREST SECTOR SUPPORT PARTNERSHIP 48 ISG - MARD 53 RURAL WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION 71 TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP GROUP 74 VIETNAM URBAN FORUM 83 LEGAL REFORMS PARTNERSHIP 85 PUBLIC ADMINISTRATIVE REFORM PARTNERSHIP 117 PUBLIC FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT PARTNERSHIP 146 Printed 500 books, size: 21x29,7cm. Publishing licence number: 527-2006/CXB/32-116/LÑXH, Finished in December 2006. 3 ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATIONS ADB Asian Development Bank ASEAN Association of South East Asian Nations AFD Agence Francaise de Developpement CEPT Common Effective Preferential Tariff CIDA Canadian International Development Agency CIE Center for International Economics CIEM Central Institute for Economic Management CPNET The government information network CPRGS Comprehensive Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy CPLAR Cooperation Program on Land Administration Reform DANIDA Danish International Development Agency EU European Union FSSP Forest Sector Support Partnership FAO Food and Agricultural Organisation GDP Gross Domestic Product ILO International Labour Organization ISG International Support Group JICA Japanese International Cooperation Agency JBIC The Japan Bank for International Cooperation KfW Kreditanstalt fur Wiederaufbau LPTS Legal Professional Training School LMDG Like-Minded Donor Group MDG Millennium Development Goal MOJ Ministry of Justice MOT Ministry of Trade NGO Non-governmental Organization NORAD Norway Agency for Development NSCERD National Steering Committee for Enterprise Reform and Development ODA Official Development Assistance ONA Office of National Assembly OSS One-Stop Shop PPA Participatory Poverty Assessment RPA Regional Poverty Assessment SEDP Socio-Economic Development Plan SDC Swiss Development Cooperation SIDA Swedish International Development Agency SPC Supreme People's Court SPP Supreme People's Procuracy UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNODC United Nations Office of Drug Control UN United Nations UNFPA United Nations Population Fund UNICEF United Nations Children's Fund UNESCO United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNIDO United Nations Industrial Development Organization UNV United Nations Volunteers UNHCR United Nations High Commissioner for Refugee VDG Vietnam Development Goal VHLSS Vietnam Household Living Standards Survey VNU Viet Nam National University SBV State Bank of Vietnam WB World Bank WHO World Health Organization WTO World Trade Organization 4 INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW Introduction 1. The past year has seen significant progress in achieving a more efficient way of delivering and managing official development assistance (ODA) in Vietnam based on an ever increasing degree of Government ownership of the partnership agenda. The international community is committed to following Vietnam's long-term goals and strategy. Donors have pledged to align their respective ODA strategies to the Vienam's Socio-Economic Development Plan 2006-2010, monitor the results of their assistance using the Government's results monitoring framework, and jointly conduct progress reviews on the realization of the Hanoi Core Statement targets. The development partnerships highlighted in this volume have made significant contributions to Vietnam's poverty reduction and growth. The partnership groups are now working to bring the 5 year plan into action. Challenges in enhancing aid effectiveness, improve coordination, reducing transaction cost, while maintaining strong Government ownership, remain. But overall Vietnam is on track to achieve the ambitious targets it has set for itself. 2. The main part of the report brings together a series of notes, prepared by 14 development partnership groups (see content page), setting out the progress they have made in meeting development outcomes since their last report to the Consultative Group Meeting and in bringing about significant changes in their sector. Groups highlighted this changed behaviour by answering four 'key questions' (Box 1) that form the structure of the notes to be found later in this report; key highlights are presented in Box 2. Most of the groups consist of Government and donor representatives, and many also include both international and local NGOs. Box 1: The four 'Key Questions' 1) What progress has your partnership group made over the past six (or twelve) months ? 2) What work has your partnership carried out in supporting the Government, central and provincial agencies to implement the new SEDP for 2006 - 2010 and sectoral strategies and programs ? 3) Over the next twelve months, what concrete actions will your group take, including to align donor support to sectoral strategies and SEDP ? 4) What are your revised success criteria - or milestones- for 2007 to ensure your partnership group reaches its development outcomes? It may be useful to put this in a matrix format, with Date, Planned Activities, Outcomes, and Key Players as the column headings. 5 Box 2: Examples of Activities of Partnership Groups in the past six (or twelve) months National Target Programme Support the government agencies preparing for implementation of Programme 135 phase 2 Support for dialogue on poverty reduction and ethnic minority policies Environment Facilitate dialogue on a wie range of issues on enviroment and natural resources such as M&E system, capacity building, river basin management, biodiversity, climate change adaptation... People's Participation Provide a forum for exchange of information and networking between international and Vietnamese organizations engaged in promoting people's participation Organize thematic meetings on draft Law on Associations, status of civil society in Vietnam, mapping out participatory models Financial Sector Facilitate discussion on banking reform program and other financial sector issues, including capital market development and non-banking financial institutions SME promotion and Private Sector Development Coordinate donor's assistance and activities, provide a forum for information exchange and discussions to facilitate SME development Develop a practical handbook for linking value chain analysis to poverty reduction. Education Policy dialogue through the Annual Education Dialogue Meeting Multi-donor thematic Initiatives including Inclusicve Education Strategy, UN girls Education Initiative, Early Childhood Care and Development, HIV/AIDS & Education Forestry Provide support to a number of important legal decrees and regulations Finalise an indicator set for the data base to be used to monitor implementation of the forthcoming National Forest Strategy Agriculture and Rural Development Conduct 3 studies: assessment of agro-products transaction modes, Training Need Assessement for international and regional integration in MARD, Performance analysis fo FDI in ARD Support formulation of a 5-year plan for MARD internatioanl cooperation activites Support to other partnership such as Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Establish the Coordination Unit, Partnership Steering Committee. Contribute to the unified Sanitation Sector Strategy and Action Plan Transport Consolidate information and experience on projects and programs in the sector to encourage alignment of support and improvement of aid effectiveness Hold discussions on: road maintenance, traffic safety and PMU reform Public Finance Management Promotion of reforms in finance and budget management Implement recommendations of the Public Expenditure Review Report 2004 Promote the realisation of sustainable development and poverty reduction objectives Public Administration Reforms Strengthen institutional and regulatory framework Promote performance efficiency and quality standard Strengthen PAR partnership for promoting cross department/provincial learning and replication 6 The Drive to Partnership - Increasing efficience 4. Since its official launch in Vietnam in 1998, the Partnership Approach has continuously served as a useful and important instrument to improve coordination, promote open dialogues between government agencies and development partners toward the common objective of increasing aid efficiency. The partnership groups in general have moved to much deeper, broader involvement in the country's Socio-economic Development Plan and other sectoral and regional development strategies. 5. Many of active partnership groups have been moving toward the formal structure (for example: the International Support Groups of MARD, ISG Enviroment, and the newly established Rural Water Supply and Sanitation), which has proved as useful and effective in promoting coordination, increasing understanding and transparency between Government agencies and international donors. The formal structure also increases the Government ownership of the process and promote better coordination within the government system both among the central level agencies and between central and local levels. This in turn improves the effectiveness of development programs in general and assistance from donor and NGO communities in particular. On the other hand, some groups and their members have found the format of an information- sharing forum to be an effective mechanism. This format also provides the partnership more flexibility to raise new issues for discussions and adapt new focuses, although it might not always link to any specific policy-making context. Each format has its own strength and weakness. It is clear that there is no "one size fits all", so members of the groups should choose the model that is best for them to achieve their desired outcomes. The success of a working group also depends on the degree of flexibility in working structures and form as the environment changes. In the past year, some groups have carried out comprehensive reassessments of their activities, mandate, organization and direction to increase the effectiveness and be more relevant and adaptable to the changes of the new situation. The degree of Government ownership of partnerships continued to increase in the past year, with 15 groups are now chaired by Government (for example, the Financial Sector Working Group, Health Sector Working Group, Urban Forum), and some (for example, ISG at Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Forest Sector Support Program and Partnership, ISG at Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment) entirely managed and supported from within existing Government structures. Strong Government ownership is desirable and necessary to ensure the success of partnership. 6. Despite progress and success stories in the past year, many issues remain to be solved on the path of building better partnership for development. Partnership groups are operating at different levels of effectiveness. Different groups face very different and sometimes wide ranging obstacles in improving partnership effectiveness. The issue of possible overlapping work between different working and partnership groups has also been raised. 7. Factors for success: Attitude, Flexibility and adaptability, Ownership, Commitment, Wide, multi-level support, Funding, Technical Knowledge. Towards 2010 - looking ahead 8. The donors have strongly committed to align their assistance strategies with Vietnam's Socio- Economic Development Plan (SEDP) 2006-2010, which serves as the main coordinator of ODA activities over the period. 7 Partnership groups have facilitated the support to SEDP formulation. As useful fora for information exchange, policy dialogues and technical discussion between development partners, the partnership groups will continue to be a good mechanism to improve coordination to support the Government's implement SEDP. 9. The experience in Vietnam has shown the benefits of donors and NGOs working in partnership with Government to support all stages of the development process. Ensuring a stronger partnership between all stakeholders is becoming even more crucial to help Vietnam achieve ambitious development goals it has set for itself. The Theme Notes 10. There was strong support for documenting the work of partnerships throughout 2006, and to lay out the path ahead. Thus it was agreed that Partnership Groups should produce brief theme notes answering the 'key questions', detailed in Box 1. These notes form the body of this report. Further information and bibliography Further information on the Partnerships in Vietnam can be obtained from: www.un.org.vn , www.undp.org.vn , www.vdic.org.vn , www.worldbank.org.vn The following documents provide more detailed information about the partnership approach and the CPRGS in Vietnam. Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam (December 2001). Putting Partnership to Work in Vietnam - Informal report for the Consultative Group Meeting, Hanoi. Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam (June 2002). Putting Partnerships to Work in Vietnam: Update. An Informal Report for the Mid-Term Consultative Group Meeting, Ho Chi Minh City. Socialist Republic of Vietnam (SRV) (2002). Comprehensive Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy, Hanoi. World Bank with Asian Development Bank (2003). Poverty - Vietnam Development Report 2004. Hanoi. Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam (Dec 2004). Partnership for Development. An Informal Report for the Consultative Group Meeting, Hanoi. World Bank and others. 2004. Vietnam Development Report 2005 - Government. Hanoi. Partnership Group on Aid Effectiveness, 2004. Harmonisation and Alignment for Greater Aid Effectiveness in Vietnam - Report 2004. Hanoi Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam (December 2004). Moving Towards 2010 - Informal report for the Consultative Group Meeting, Hanoi Mid-term Consultative Group Meeting for Vietnam (June 2005). Moving Towards 2010, Informal report for the Consultative Group Meeting, Hanoi (Mid-year Update) 8 PARTNERSHIP TO SUPPORT THE NATIONAL TARGET PROGRAMME ON POVERTY REDUCTION AND PROGRAMME 135 BACKGROUND This note describes the activities of international organizations and agencies that have contributed to the partnership to support the National Target Programs (NTPs) for poverty reduction in the past year. Perhaps most notably, with the launch of the second phase of Programme 135 (P135-II), there has been a significant increase in the number of donors and their involvement in this programme and the emergence of a more formal partnership around this activity with the formation of a specific Partnership Committee for the purpose of providing joint donor budget support to P135-II. At the time of writing, this joint budget support operation is in the process of formal appraisal, with negotiations with Government and World Bank/ donor agency approval expected to take place within the first quarter of 2007. Programme 135 phase 2 was approved by the Prime Minister under Decision No. 7/2006/QD-TTg of January 10, 2006, while an official decision on the NTP-PR is still under consideration. Over the past year a group of donor agencies has been working through a collaborative and consultative process to support the government agencies preparing for implementation of Programme 135 phase 2. With technical support from the UNDP funded Technical Assistance project VIE/02/001 and other donors including WB, SIDA, Finland, DFID, AusAid, and IFAD, programme documents for Programme 135 phase 2 and the NTP-PR as well as several implementation guidelines were completed. On the donors' side, World Bank has led the design of the budget support operation to P135-II with participation from other interested donors and agencies including AusAid, Finland, IFAD, Ireland, Sida, and UK DFID. On the government side CEMA has provided strong leadership with an open and consultative approach. There is a positive sense of progress and achievement among the parties to this informal partnership and recognition that P135-II is being strengthened and enhanced through these joint efforts. 1) Support for Programme 135 Phase 2 and the National Targeted Program for Poverty Reduction in the past twelve months (a) Support to the drafting process of the Inter-ministerial Circular, specific ministerial Circulars on implementation guidelines and the P135-II "Roadmap". CEMA, as the lead GOVN agency on Programme 135 phase 2 (P135II), worked in close consultation with relevant GOVN agencies (MPI, MOC, MOF and MARD) and donors to prepare and issue the Inter-ministerial Circular that guides provinces on programme implementation. The final draft Inter-ministerial Circular was completed in May and issued by GOVN in August 2006. At the same time, MOC, MARD, MOF, and CEMA have been preparing guidelines for different parts of P135II. The MOC officially issued its Circular 01/2006/TT-BXD on estimating and managing costs for P135II infrastructure investment, while the MOF and MARD have produced a number of draft guidelines on financial management and the production component, respectively, for wide consultation. Notably, CEMA has taken the lead in preparing a "Roadmap" with key targets, indicators and milestones for the implementation of P135II and the Circular on programme component 4 "Improved Livelihoods." 9 CEMA organized training workshops for all 45 participating provinces of P135II to prepare their own provincial Roadmaps and training plans. There are other guidelines being developed such as com- mune investment ownership, communications, capacity building, budget allocation and financial reporting, and monitoring and evaluation. The process of preparing the above documents has been undertaken in a consultative manner with the active participation of government agencies and donors. Some of the specific technical support provided by donors includes: IFAD support to MARD for public consultation on the development of the production guidelines; Finland's support for the development of a sub-national technical assistance fund, commune ownership and monitoring and evaluation; support from SIDA for overall donor coordination; UNICEF's support to the improved living conditions component; and UNDP technical assistance for circular and guideline development and P135-II management. In addition, MPI led the preparation of a number of technical studies that contributed to the design of the joint budget support approach with support from a Government of Japan PHRD Grant administered by the World Bank. Though technical support provided by donors and UN agencies has been through various channels and mechanisms, CEMA's leadership and ownership has played a key role in ensuring maximum alignment and coordination with GOVN policies and structures. The development of the P135II roadmap is an excellent example of this. The process of preparing the P135II roadmap that lays out the government's own committed policy and institutional actions and results was led by CEMA with active participation by other stakeholders from government, donors and UN agencies. The roadmap that emerged from this process also: (i) helped define the key policy and institutional actions summarized in the Results Framework of the proposed joint budget support operation for P135II; (ii) offers a basis for aligning donor TA support; and (iii) provides a starting point for monitoring and evaluating the results of both government's efforts and donor support in P135II implementation. To get INGO feedback on the development of P135-II and support greater INGO linkage with poverty related NTPs, UNDP and other donors have initiated different activities with the NGO Resource Centre and its working groups. IFAD supported MARD to organize a separate NGO consultation on the P135II draft production guidelines and UNDP consulted with the Pro-Poor Extension working group. As an input into World Bank and DFID's mapping of donor activities in P135II communes, UNDP coordinated with the NGO RC to consult with NGOs on their activities in P135II communes. UNDP is also working with CEMA and the NGO RC to establish greater INGO and national NGO collaboration. An introduction workshop for CEMA and NGOs was organized on 27 November where the broader issues of collaboration and partnership were discussed. (b) Support for joint budget support to Programme 135 phase 2 The joint donor partnership group for budget support to P135-II has indicated that it expects to provide an expected total level of support of approximately US$274 million over 2007-2010, in a combination of concessional loans and grants. These resources will pass directly to the state budget. This direct budget support will be complemented by parallel technical assistance that will target building capacity at all levels to help achieve the programme's strategic results. Two donor pre-appraisal missions took place over May 8-26 and September 18-October 9 2006 to review Programme 135 Phase 2's readiness for donor budget support. There was significant progress over the course of the two missions on agreement between GOVN and donors on the budget support, including the lending modality, partnership mechanism, and basis for progress review and evaluation. 10 During the missions, GOVN and donors identified a number of key policy and institutional actions that the budget support to P135II would achieve. These policy and institutional actions as well as the above-mentioned roadmap have also helped define and coordinate the TA support to P135II. The donor agencies providing budget support to P135-II have agreed with CEM, MPI, MOF, and MARD to establish a Partnership Committee for this purpose with the first meeting planned for early 2007. The Partnership Committee will draw on lessons learned from DFID's program budget support to P135-I and will hold two joint progress review meetings each year. The main purpose of the meetings is to review the results of P135-II implementation including progress towards the agreed policy and institutional actions under the joint budget support operation. The Partnership Committee complements the P135 National Steering Committee, led by the deputy Prime Minister, which is responsible for overseeing P135-II implementation. (c) Support to guideline development and implementation of the NTP-PR, 2006-2010 As the programme document of NTP-PR is still under the GOVN's appraisal and approval process, only some partnership activities were undertaken relating to this programme. At a request from MOLISA, donors and NGOs were invited to provide technical assistance and support to seventeen poor provinces in Vietnam in their poverty reduction programmes. A meeting with donors and NGOs was held in March to look for a chance of cooperation with those organizations in specific localities. A general framework for preparing a provincial planning process was disseminated to all members of 17 provincial drafting teams at a training workshop organized on March 23-24. The actual planning exercises were completed in these provinces. This is the first time that the provincial plans for NTP-PR are being prepared with wider participation and consultation with many organizations outside DOLISA and at all provincial, district and commune levels. This consultative process will make the work plan more poverty-focused and feasible. A draft guideline on local planning on poverty reduction and lessons learned from the provincial planning process were shared with central agencies, donors and NGOs in June. Government agencies, donors and NGOs participated in a consultation workshop organized in June by MOLISA to provide their comments and inputs to the final draft of capacity building framework and curriculum matrix for the NTP-PR, 2006-2010 before its finalization. (d) Support for dialogue on poverty reduction and ethnic minority policies CEMA and MPI took the lead, with support from UNDP and World Bank, to organize a "Consultative Forum on Support to Socio-economic Development in Ethnic Minority and Mountainous Areas, 2006- 2010" on September 28, 2006. Donors, UN agencies, and INGOs participated in addition to a wide range of GOVN ministries and agencies. The seminar was co-chaired by Minister Ksor Phuoc of CEMA and Vice Minister Cao Viet Sinh of MPI. Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Khiem attended and gave opening remarks. The forum provided a unique chance for an open dialogue on ethnic minority policies. One of the key results of the Forum was the agreement to continue such dialogues on a more regular basis. 2) Key activities in the next twelve months In 2007, key areas of support to P135-II and the NTP-PR will include: Programme 135, Phase 2: Support CEMA and concerned ministries to complete the development of component-specific Circulars and guidelines for implementation of P135-II. Support CEMA to develop and implement M&E systems and operational guidelines, including 11 support to implement the baseline survey. Support CEMA to develop and implement capacity building programmes, and support mechanisms to identify and share vertical and horizontal lessons and best practices, communication strategies, and operational guidelines. Technical assistance and capacity building for CEMA at all levels and for related technical agencies, particularly at provincial, district and commune levels. Support to initiate and operationalize the P135-II Partnership Committee. National Targeted Programme on Poverty Reduction, Phase 2: Support MOLISA, and concerned ministries to complete the development of component-specific Circulars and guidelines for implementation of phase 2 of the NTP-PR. Support MOLISA to develop and implement M&E systems and operational guidelines. Support MOLISA to develop and implement capacity building programmes, and support mechanisms to identify and share vertical and horizontal lessons and best practices, communication strategies, and operational guidelines. Further develop an inclusive partnership mechanism on poverty, including structure, coordination and partnership principles and a wider membership that would include INGOs, VNGOs and other civil society representatives in addition to government and donors. 3) The future of partnership and revised success criteria The nature of the overall partnership to P135 and the NTP-PR has been evolving, subject to changes in GOVN's agenda for its poverty reduction programmes and interest from donors and NGOs. In line with the Hanoi Core Statement, a group of donors including DFID, SIDA, Finland, AusAid, Ireland, WB and IFAD are adopting P135-II as an important mechanism to provide direct budget support and technical assistance for further improvement of programme implementation. This partnership will become formally established with the Partnership Committee to review P135-II implementation and associated budget support. The PC for P135-II is well defined in an outline terms of reference agreed to by GOVN and donors, which in 2007 will need to be operationalized with greater specification on roles and responsibilities, development of a work plan, and possible consideration of capacity building opportunities for its lead agency CEMA. A number of INGOs are also interested to become more closely involved in supporting P135-II implementation, consistent with the Hanoi Core Statement, particularly at local levels. Whatever involvement INGOs may have with P135-II, this is likely to differ significantly from the kind of partnership represented by the formal Partnership Committee for P135-II. Therefore, the structure and nature of such a wider collaboration, and its operational mechanism, principles and membership will have to be debated and formalized. Fortunately there is rich experience to draw on, both from previous and ongoing partnerships on poverty reduction such as the PAC, Poverty Working Group and Poverty Task Force as well as partnerships in other sectors such as the ISGs in MARD and MONRE. Success criteria for the emerging formal partnership for P135-II need to be discussed and developed by its members. Regarding a wider collaboration or partnership for P135-II and the NTP-PRs, it is pre-mature to consider evaluating success in the absence of such a partnership, however factors that may be considered in the formation of an eventual partnership could also later apply to its review. Criteria which were proposed in 2005 can be reconsidered including: Government of Viet Nam's ownership and leadership of the partnership; working mechanisms within governmental organizations across levels, and within donors and NGOs; the development of a partnership network; the level and quality of technical support provided through the partnership; the extent to which national and provincial 12 level partnerships support to the implementation of P135-II and the NTP-PRs; the roles and functions of the partnership in the monitoring, evaluation and review of progress in programme implementation; the active involvement of government, mass organizations and provincial representatives and other civil society members, donors and NGOs; and increased harmonization of donor support to national poverty reduction programmes. Contact persons: 1. Dr. Tran Van Thuat, Director, Ethnic Minority Policy Department, CEMA; Deputy National Project Director, SEDEMA component, VIE/02/001 project, # 80 Phan Dinh Phung Street, Hanoi. Telephone: (844) 8230500; email: tranvanthuat@cema.gov.vn; 2. Dr. Tran Huu Trung, Deputy National Project Director, NTP-PR component, VIE/02/001 project, # 2 Dinh Le Street, Hanoi. Telephone: (844) 9362931; email: trantrungvn195@yahoo.com.vn; 3. Mr. Tran Phi Tuoc, Director, International Cooperation Department, MOLISA; # 2 Dinh Le Street, Hanoi. Telephone: 8269533; email: ird-molisa@fpt.vn 4. Mr. Do Thanh Lam, Programme Officer, UNDP. Telephone: 9421495, ext. 212, email: do.thanh.lam@undp.org 5. Dr. Robin Mearns, World Bank (on behalf of the joint World Bank/donor budget support partnership group for P135-II). Telephone: 934 6600, ext. 315; email: rmearns@worldbank.org List of participating institutions: Vietnamese Agencies Donors 1 MOLISA UNDP 2 CEMA UNICEF 3 MPI DFID 4 MOF SIDA 5 MOJ AUSAID 6 OOG IRELAND 7 MARD FINLAND 8 MOC WB 9 MOFA IFAD 10 SAV 11 GSO 12 ILSA 13 MOHA 13 ISGE NHOÙM HOÃ TRÔÏ QUOÁC VEÀ TAØI NGUYEÂN VAØ MOÂI TRÖÔØNG TEÁ BOÄ TAØI NGUYEÂN VAØ MOÂI TRÖÔØNG INTERNATIONAL SUPPORT GROUP ON NATURAL RESOURCES 120 Partnership Report 2006 For Consultative Group Meeting In December 2006 As a dialogue forum between the donor community and the GoV on natural resources and environment, ISGE has identified some policy priorities and finding logical approaches to facilitate dialogue on these issues. ISGE also seeks for broad participation and constructive contributions of organizations and individuals of all sectors to the following dialogue issues: Dialogue focus in 2006 1. Monitoring and Evaluation System for Natural Resources and Environment Five Year Plan In order to ensure successful implementation of the NRE Five Year Plan, there needs to develop performance indicators for monitoring and reporting purposes. Proposed approach is to develop a result-based monitoring and evaluation Logframe. A concept study to develop a M&E system prepared by ISGE earlier and the "Result-based Monitoring and Evaluation System for implementation of the 2006-2010 Socio-Economic Development Plan" will be basis documents for formulation of monitoring and evaluation system for NRE five year plan. 2. Agenda 21 for Natural Resources and Environment sector Vietnam Agenda 21 was developed with nine issues that relate to natural resources and environment. These provide the orientation for the development of an Agenda 21 for the natural resources and environment sector. Assigned by the Government to be the focal point in developing an NRE sector Agenda 21, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment has already made arrangements and prepared documents to orient this task. Actions are now focused on finalizing the necessary NRE Agenda 21 documents. ISGE has been providing supports and consultation to finalize these documents. Draft documents have been prepared with the support of Poverty and Environment Project and to be complete in the mid of 2007. 3. Strategic Capacity building and institutional development framework for NRE sector As a sector under the newly formed Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, NRE is facing many challenges, in particular capacity building and human resource development. Under the framework of Thematic Ad-hoc Group 3 of ISGE, the task to develop a capacity building and institutional development framework for the sector has been set in order to outline a comprehensive framework for sector capacity building oriented with strategic objectives and/or long-term sector plans (for example, 5 year plans). From that point, it is possible to identify focus, gaps and overlaps of capacity building task of the sector. 4. National Policy on River basin management. Development of a planning process for river basin management is being undertaken by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment; and water sharing is considered as a complicated issue and the core of river basin management. Discussion and policy recommendations on water sharing will be undertaken under the framework of Thematic Ad-hoc Group 1 of ISGE. 14 5. Working Group on Biodiversity Biodiversity conservation is a key priority of the NRE sector and draws much attention from donors and the Government. However, there are inconsistencies and overlaps in state management and policy dialogue on this issue have been inadequate. Therefore, ISGE proposes to establish a working group on biodiversity to facilitate and coordinate the dialogue with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development and Ministry of Forestry, two members of ISGE on this issue Other dialogue issues 6. Climate change adaptation. Climate change adaptation is drawing much concern of Vietnamese government. ISGE intends to establish a working group on climate change adaptation in 2007 to point out a matrix of climate change adaptation activities in Vietnam. In late 2006, current status of international supports will be reviewed and some recommendations on focuses of coastal climate change adaptation to be made. 7. The environmental industry Orientation to develop the environmental industry and assess the impact of environmental protection policies on enterprises is also a concern of ISGE. This will be a start in establishing dialogue channel between ministries, industries and business community on environmental protection under ISGE framework. 8. Review of legislations on natural resources and environment Legislation framework on natural resources and environment is of great concern with huge number of documents but showing many shortcomings in practical implementation. ISGE intend to support MONRE in its task to review the overall system of NRE legislation and make findings available for broad consultation among ISGE members and donors in order to improve the legislation framework, ensure that national and sectoral overall objectives are met. Other activities Monthly and thematic volumes of ISGE newsletters were issued and sent to related organizations and individuals. News on dialogue process and ODA-related activities have constantly updated on ISGE website. The ISGE is reviewing its performance in the last 2 years and to streamline its activities to better serve the emerging task of bridging between donor communities and the governemtn on the NRE sector. International Support Group for Natural Resources and Environment Room 215, 83 Nguyen Chi Thanh, Hanoi Tel: 04-7735510; Fax: 04-7735509 Email: isgemonre@fpt.vn; Website: www.isge.monre.gov.vn 15 PEOPLE'S PARTICIPATION'S WORKING GROUP Partnership Note Hanoi, November 2006 The People's Participation Working Group (PPWG) was established in 1999 as one of the partnership groups, and it provides an informal forum for organisations and professionals - including donors, government employees, NGOs, project managers, consultants, researchers - to meet and exchange information and ideas on issues relating to people's participation, grassroots democracy and civil society. Participants are encouraged to share information relevant and interesting to other members of the network. The overall goal of the group is to support the Government of Vietnam in its efforts to enhance people's participation in their own development and the development process in Vietnam including participation in development policy design, implementation and monitoring. The immediate objectives of the group are to promote i) an enabling environment and capacity building for enhanced people's participation and ii) co-ordination of activities for efficient use of resources invested in this area. Co-ordination of the PPWG The PPWG is co-ordinated by an elected Chairperson assisted by a voluntary core group. This core group consists currently of about 15 members from UNDP, Embassy of Finland, International NGOs and Vietnamese NGOs, who meet regularly to organise thematic workshops and other events. Ms. Nguyen Thi Le Hoa from Oxfam Great Britain chaired the group up to end of August 2006. The current Chairperson is Ms. Vu Thi Bich Hop, Director of SRD (Center for Sustainable Rural Development). The level of activities in respect of people's participation and civil society development increased during 2006, and the core group met regularly to plan and keep the group updated on activities and events. The PPWG is open to all those who are interested in participating and contributing to sharing information and carrying out joint objectives. I. Update on PPWG activities in 2006 In 2006, the PPWG continues to provide a forum for exchange of information and networking between international and Vietnamese organisations engaged in promoting people's participation. During this year the PPWG has attracted more participation from Vietnamese governmental bodies and civil organisations. In particular, the main thematic workshops and other meetings described below provided a forum for dialogue between different stakeholders. Some of the core issues include participation of organisations in the implementation of the SEDP, the Grassroots Democracy Decree and to participate in other forums; to strengthen the organisations; to follow the development of the legal frame for organisations. Furthermore, the PPWG will continue the discussions on working definitions used by the group related to civil society and participation. II. Thematic meetings organised by PPWG in 2006 Volunteering in Vietnam 17 February. This meeting was organised by the United Nations Volunteers (UNV) office and hosted by the PPWG with the purpose of promoting discussion on national volunteering including the idea of a National Volunteer Centre in Vietnam. Law on Association, 15 May. The draft Law on Associations was reviewed by the National Assembly during spring session 2006 and had drawn a lot of attention from the development community and the mass media in Vietnam. 16 Considering the importance of the law to Vietnamese NGOs PPWG core group decided to conduct a PPWG meeting on the topic. The meeting was conduced 15 May 2006 with the objective to share information and promote discussion about the draft law. Prof. Giao from LERES gave a thorough presentation of the draft of the Law on Associations and the implications of its contents. MOHA was invited to the meeting but had to send regrets. The meeting was well attended by local NGOs. The status of Civil society in Vietnam and how to strengthen it, 14 June The meeting presented the UNDP/SNV supported CIVICUS Civil Society Index Study, an initial assessment of what it describes as `the emerging civil society' in Vietnam. The national coordinators, Dang Ngoc Dinh from VIDS and Irene Norlund, International consultant for UNDP/SNV, presented the outcome of the one-year long study, and four of the senior researchers involved in the project gave each their comments to the strengths and weaknesses of the study. The meeting was very well attended and the participants were engaged in the discussions. Link: http://www.undp.org.vn/undpLive/digitalAssets/3202_Civicuc_report__E_.pdf Mapping out Participatory Models, 16 November Plan International has commissioned a consultant, Anna Lauridsen, to compare various approaches to participation. Based on the recognition that various organisations carry out `participation' differently from one project to another, the study was conducted to inform about the different models and facilitate learning about advantages and disadvantages in the various approaches. The study findings were presented during a PPWG meeting on the 16 November 2006. Two PPWG meetings planned for the autumn 2006 were cancelled due to overlapping with Government workshops and events. One meeting on Vietnam's 5-Year Socio-Economic Development Plan (SEDP) 2006-2010: experiences from Vietnamese and International NGOs on participatory planning in its implementation was cancelled/postponed due to a workshop hosted by Ministry of Planning and Investment with support from SCF UK on 26 September on a very similar subject. Another meeting on Rural Collaborative Groups and Networking amongst Vietnamese NGOs was postponed as the thematic study (led by Department of Cooperatives, MARD with field survey support from IFAD, CARE, OXFAM GB and SRD) to the 7th draft of RCG Decree. This Draft is being circulated among PPWG Core group for feedbacks and comments will be provided to MARD prior National Workshop planned for 13 December 2006. The Decree will be submitted for Government approval. III. Other activities during 2006 Update of the PPWG Website at http://www.un.org.vn/donor/donor.htm, working group space. The VUFO-NGO Centres has established a new, more active and updated website, and PPWG core group decided to move the PPWG webpage to the website: http://www.ngocentre.org.vn/ Default.asp? page=People_Participation_Working_Group. The link under the UN Vietnam website under partnerships is maintained. The PPWG server for distributing messages to the full group of interested persons has moreover changed to ppwg@ngocentre.org.vn. The VUFO-INGO website will be launched 10 December 2006. Inventory update for organisations involved in PPWG. It will in the future be updated twice a year from 2007. IV. Related activities/activities of interest in 2006 Participation in the briefing on the draft Law on Associations at the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) for Ambassadors as well as PPWG members, 3 April. Launch of the CIVICUS Civil Society Index Study supported by the Vietnam Institute of Development Studies, SNV and UNDP, on 9 May. 17 The Embassy of Finland's study on Measuring Grassroots Democracy, conducted by Mekong Economics, and review of support for GDD. The Finnish Embassy has conducted some consultation with NGOs. UNDP/VASS paper on grassroots democracy and participatory governance in Vietnam. It was available at the "20 years of doi moi conference" organised by UNDP and VASS in June. Case Study of VNGO Network under the Capable Partners Program (CAP), USAID Office of Private Voluntary Cooperation (USAID/PVC) and the Academy for Educational Development (AED) and its main partner Management Systems International (MSI). This report was expected to be finished by mid-year. PPWG members were actively taking part and contributed to the Vietnam Development Report by the World Bank. INGOs and NGOs were for the first time invited to take part, from June to November. VUSTA with support from UNDP and SNV and was a major event with participation of more than 140 participants from different stakeholders groups (Vietnamese and international NGOs, government officials and donor community). Support for Plan International's project on assessing different participatory models, presented at the PPWG meeting, 16 November. V. Meetings planned for 2007 Topic 1: Participatory planning and budgeting - role of I/NGOs This topic is being discussed by various organisations involved in the new type of participatory development, and PPWG would like to ensure involvement and networking on the results from these approaches. Organisations which have gained experiences will present cases to be discussed by the plenary. Topic 2: Rural Collaborative Groups and Networking amongst Vietnamese NGOs It is expected that the final draft Decree on Rural Collaborative Groups (RCG) will be formulated by end of the 2006. PPWG have been proactive in pushing for this change in the legal frame for small rural groups that hitherto had no legal frame. The purpose of this PPWG meeting would be to discuss the draft and the report that came out as a result of the meeting in 2005 on the same topic. The RCG topic might be combined with discussion of how to form networks between RCG. Topics to be addressed will include formation of networks, structure and capacity, activities, contributions to the development process, and challenges faced in promoting these networks to follow up on activities from 2005. Topic 3: Reflections of how to follow-up on the "Capacity building and strengthening of NGOs" The VUSTA workshop 9 November 2006 was a landmark event with presentations from national and international speakers, government and non-government sector. The afternoon was spent on group discussions on how to support NGOs and their participation in the development process in Vietnam. UNDP, SNV and VUSTA all expressed commitment to contribute to strengthening the NGO sector, for instance through the suggested establishment of a fund for Capacity Development of NGOs. The PPWG meeting would be on follow-up measures from the workshop. Topic 4: Participation of INGOs and NGOs in implementation and M&E of the SEDP This PPWG meeting will aim to explore the involvement of Vietnamese and International NGOs in the development and implementation of the SEDP, and what this means for the contribution of these organisations to government policy and the improvement of participatory governance. Topic 5: Developing an enabling environment for CSOs development It is clear that CSOs can only develop and contribute if they are facilitated by an enabling environment. 18 Other than to follow-up the Law on Association (which might not be taken up in the NA again before 2008) PPWG members would seek opportunities to look into the overall CSOs legal framework (including legal documents for other types of CSOs such as funds, foundations, CSOs at grassroots levels...) and other mechanism necessary to facilitate the growth of CSOs. This include assuring sustainable finance for CSOs as tax provision, grants, aids, donation, voluntary work...; assuring actual and effective participation of CSOs in public service delivery, national program 135...; capacity building to enhance CSOs capability, accountability and transparency; enhancing the State-CSOs and State-CSOs-Market dialogues... Other activities Of other activities planned for 2007 include: Identify means and ways to strengthening the PPWG further and identify strategic directions. This includes reviewing goal, objectives, working definitions, etc. Discussions to provide inputs for the Ordinance on Grassroots Democracy WTO impacts on the NGO sector. 19 FINANCIAL SECTOR PARTNERSHIP The Government-donor financial sector working group was established in late 1999 to discuss the proposed banking reform program developed by State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), to support implementation of that program, and to coordinate donor support on banking reform. Since that time, the working group has expanded beyond just banking reform and now covers a wider range of financial sector issues, including capital market development and non-banking financial institutions (NBFIs), deposit insurance and representatives of the Ministry of Finance (MOF) and State Securities Commission (SSC) are invited to participate in the meetings. The partnership on financial sector reform is informal but serves as an effective forum in which the Government and its partners can periodically share information on the financial sector reform, provide updates on current financial sector developments and technical assistance, and coordinate various donor assistance activities. In addition, the working group serves as a forum for seeking donor assistance. Strong Government Ownership Implementation of the Government's financial sector reform program continues with strong donor support as evidenced by the number of related assistance projects as well as the amount of financial support provided by the Donor Group. The working group is now meeting on a quarterly or semi-annual basis with the third quarter 2006 meeting having been held in September 2006. At this meeting the discussion focused on the objectives and key points in the Roadmap titled "Development objectives and solutions for Vietnam banking sector up to 2010 and orientation to 2020" approved by the Prime Minister in Decision 112/2006/QD-TTg dated May 24, 2006, Capital Markets, Deposit Insurance, NBFIs, leasing and the transformation of the DAF into a Development bank. The September 2006 meeting was hosted by the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV), chaired by a Deputy Governor with participation of representatives from 15 donor organizations and donor-funded projects. Financial Sector Reform Progress During the recent donor meeting, the SBV provided an update on the banking reform progress and the measures being taken to address challenging problem areas. The SBV presentation included the following issues: (i)Transformation of the SBV into a modern central bank: The SBV should streamline its organization, and equip itself with resources and capacity in order to successfully carry out market-based monetary policies and apply international standards and best practices in its bank supervision operation, securing its full integration into the international financial community; (ii) Restructuring of the commercial banks and development of non-bank financial institutions: The SBV is determined to enhance the restructuring process of the commercial banks, specifically in their financial standing, corporate governance and competitiveness. The SBV surveillance of the commercial banks and financial institutions would be radically changed in a way that the institutions have full autonomy and are fully responsible for their business performance. In addition, the SBV actively encourages the development of finance and leasing companies, microfinance institutions, people's credit funds, deposit insurance, policy lending institutions and the money and capital markets. The SBV informed the donors of the TA Roadmap produced under the project Road mapping/ Master Planning to Support the State Bank of Vietnam to Identify and Sequence Technical Assistance in the Implementation of the International Economic Integration of the Banking Sector. The Roadmap is intended for the SBV to coordinate and harmonize the reform activities as laid out in Decision 112. The Roadmap is also a live position paper with an Excel-based TA planning and management tool that aims to assist SBV to optimize the benefit of TAs for the financial sector and 20 save donors' study time when considering possible TA supports to the banking sector. In order for the donors to visualize the usefulness of the newly-built tool, a consultant in charge of creating the Technical Assistance Management Information System (TAMIS) demonstrated a web portal platform that provides views and status of TA provision and commitments for 2006-2020 with fast-tracking tools. The Banks and Non-bank Financial Institutions Dept. of the SBV presented the two important areas in the financial sector: leasing and microfinance. There are 10 companies operating in the leasing industry, 7 of which are subsidiaries of commercial banks. As of June 30, 2006, total charter capital of the companies was approximately VND1.1 trillion, mobilized fund was approximately VND7.8 trillion and outstanding was VND8.1 trillion. Leasing activities are quite safe as compared with bank loans and the non-performing assét currently stand at 3.6% of total outstanding, or VND293 billion. Total provision is VND156 billion. However, leasing companies are faced with quite a few obstacles, including the weak legal framework, limited charter capital and mobilized funds, potential credit risks due to second-best customer portfolios, public awareness of leasing as a financing tool, etc. ADB, KfW and AFD have provided supports to these companies but further supports are valuable for this young industry. In the microfinance area, the official microfinance providers (i.e. Agribank, Vietnam Social Policy Bank, People's Credit Funds, Joint-stock banks) accounting for most of microfinance activities and the semi-official microfinance providers (i.e. NGOs, social-political associations) now have a lot of difficulties and challenges, such as a weak regulatory framework, lack of overall development strategy, etc. ADB is providing TA for the preparation of the guiding documents for Decree 28/2005/ND-CP and surveillance system of microfinance activities. Nonetheless, more donor supports are welcome to create an enabling environment for these activities, as well as to build capacity for SBV supervisors and microfinance providers, especially training in business administration, financial analysis, and internal audit. There is also a need to establish a microfinance association to coordinate and support microfinance activities. The State Securities Commission of Vietnam (SSC) presented updates on the development of the capital market in Vietnam and the key chapters of the new Securities Law which will take effect as of January 01, 2007. The capital market is witnessed to have remarkable developments recently, e.g. as of the first quarter 2006 there were 63 companies being listed with total market capitalization of over 65 trillion VND (the number of listed companies now has reached 77 with market capitalization of over 70 trillion VND), accounting for 7.8% of GDP (as compared with over 1% of GDP by the end of 2005) and the number of equitized enterprises has reached 3,000, promising much further increases in the future. By 2010, market capitalization is targeted to reach 15% - 25% of GDP and a Stock Exchange shall be established in 2007 (with USD50 million loan from USAID) in Ho Chi Minh City to replace the current trading center while the Hanoi Securities Trading Center will become a hybrid market in 2010. A more developed bond and derivatives markets are also envisioned in the next 5 years. Until now, USAID ­ STAR project helped prepare the Securities Law and WB cooperated with the SSC to prepare an "Overview of the Capital Market in Vietnam and Directions for Development" report and conducted a country corporate governance assessment. Capital market development needs a great deal more support from donors, areas of specific need include (i) preparing the guiding regulations and co-ordinating laws for the implementation of the Securities Law; (ii) enhancing a full-functioning central depository body; (iii) restructuring the market; (iv) improving market transparency and corporate governance; (v) enhancing regulatory capacity of the SSC and strengthening market inspection, supervision, and enforcement activities. 21 The Deposit Insurance of Vietnam (DIV) provided donors with a brief but comprehensive overview of deposit insurance activities in Vietnam. Since its establishment in 1999, DIV has played a positive role in maintaining Vietnam's financial system stability. DIV made timely reimbursement to nearly 3000 depositors of 33 failed People Credit Funds (PCFs) in 2000 shortly after it came into operations. This has contributed to preventing the spread of the problem to other institutions. Currently, this institution has VND2 trillion in its equity and funds, and insures 991 financial institutions nation-wide, including 67 banks, 6 finance companies and 918 PCFs. The senior management of the DIV has a clear vision and strategy on the modernization of the DIV and the institution is in need of well-defined TA supports. The Vietnam Development Bank (VDB), at the September donors meeting discussed the transformation of Development Assistance Fund into VDB, which took place in June with TA supports under an ASEM grant administered by the WB. As of this time, VDB inherited: (i) 5,800 projects with committed amount of VND83.4 trillion, total outstanding of VND42.1 trillion; (ii) 293 ODA projects with committed amount of USD6.2 billion and outstanding of VND43.9 trillion; (iii) 2,676 post-investment projects with committed amount of VND3.2 trillion; (iv) 720 export credits with contract amount of VND4.2 trillion. VDB is to serve development investment and export credit needs as directed by the Government with a clear set of objectives for the period 2006-2010; the bank is therefore burdened with numerous tasks requiring it to have a sound and transparent financial standing, streamlined organization, market-based and IT-based services. The institution looks forward to further donor support, especially in capacity building and in creating an enabling regulatory and accounting framework. Aligning Assistance to the Strategic Development Plans There continues to be good accord between the sections on financial sector reform in the Government's strategic development plans, including the Socio-Economic Development Plan to 2010 and the Comprehensive Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy, and overall donor supported technical and lending assistance. In addition, the key Government agencies involved in reform implementation, the SBV and SSC, are linking their sector development strategies to their assistance needs and priorities. The Government's strategic plans, both the overall and sector specific, enjoy strong backing by the members of the working group on financial sector reform. This is expected to continue to be the case going forward. Donor Support for the Reform Agenda In addition to the supports previously mentioned, many other supports have also been carried out by the donors during the year. Comprehensive information regarding donor activities is provided in Financial Sector Assistance Matrix (as attached) which is periodically updated with inputs from the donors and published through the World Bank's website so that each donor can learn what other donors are doing. Following are the prominent ones: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has an on-going assistance program in such areas as implementation of the anti-money laundering, SME development, capital and financial market development, housing finance, non-bank financial institutions. Currently, ADB is providing advice for the development of a bond market jointly with the World Bank and is going to help enhance capacity building in supervision activities for the SSC. The Australian Agency of International Development (AusAID) has provided assistance to SBV with an international integration study that addressed the competitiveness of the banking sector, and the process of international integration. The Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) has started its SBV reform project, 22 focusing on (i) restructuring and human resource development; (ii) regulatory supports, and (iii) risk management and internal audit procedure. The European Commission (EC) has helped the SBV in: (i) Evaluation of off-site surveillance of the commercial banks; (ii) Evaluation of the accuracy and timeliness of data submitted by the commercial banks, and (iii) training of bank supervision staffs. The First Initiative is working with the SSC to set up the regulations and guidelines for the operation of investment funds and to prepare a feasibility study for the development of the Central Securities Depository. The German Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ) has provided technical supports in: (i) SBV monetary policy management; (ii) SBV supervision activities and reforms, internal audits in the commercial banks and People's credit funds, and risk management; (iii) bad debt resolution, and (iv) regulatory framework: drafting Securities Law and SBV Law and organizing workshops for the preparation of the two banking laws. The International Finance Corporation (IFC) continues to provide supports to the financial sector with regard to the creation of a private credit bureau and modernization of secured transactions law. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) is providing assistance in the areas of monetary management, banking supervision, balance of payment statistics, foreign exchange reserve management, banking restructuring and organization of the SBV. The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) is working with the SBV to focus on: (i) data management reforms; (ii) payment system improvement; (iii) development of secondary debt management; (iv) banking regulatory framework, and (v) future TA proposals. The Japan Ministry of Finance is working with the SSC and the Central Securities Depository to provide their technical assistance. The Swiss State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) is providing supports to the SSC. The US Agency for International Development (USAID) worked with the SSC for the preparation of the Securities Law, and capital markets policy/legal reforms. Currently, USAID is also assisting the Ministry of Justice and concerned Agencies in developing a modern legal framework for Secured Transactions. In addition USAID has provided comprehensive technical support to the State Bank and National Assembly in developing the Laws on Credit Institutions and Negotiable Instruments, Decrees on Foreign Banks, and Decision on Prudential Regulations. The World Bank has been a partner in Vietnam's reform process for the past ten years and will continue to support the next phase of strategic policy and technical changes in the financial sector. The diversification of the financial sector will become increasingly critical as the formal financial sector grows because underdevelopment of the capital markets intensifies banking sector risk and reduces prospects for improved governance due to the lower market presence of institutional investors. Therefore, the focus of the Bank's interventions in the financial sector is evolving and now includes an expanded focus on capital markets development. The current program includes a variety of components. The Bank has supported critical financial sector infrastructure through an initial project (completed) for the establishment of a National Payment System. Currently, a follow up project of $105 million is underway to further the development of the payment system as well as core banking systems at the largest banks. A new project under preparation focuses on specific needs of the SBV, in particular, comprehensive data management system, including collection, storage, security and analysis. Over the course of the past several years, the Bank has assisted the Financial Sector by securing a number of Trust Funds, primarily ASEM Trust Funds and A Multi-Donor Trust Fund under the 23 MOF. In addition, country specific bilateral consultant trust funds have provided support to the WB in data gathering and analysis. All of these have been valuable resources for capacity building, policy dialogue and legal and regulatory changes. Some of the recent activities have included the following (for a more detailed listing of these activities, please see the Donor TA Matrix attached): a) financial support for IAS Audits at several institutions over the course of the past few years, b) a recent Basel Core Principles assisted Self Assessment, c) Discussion and assistance in developing a supervisory rating system (CAMELS), d) Reviewing the current governance structure of the banking system and assisting in the development of a new regulation on Corporate Governance of Commercial Banks, e) Support to the SBV to understand and manage its technical assistance needs, f) supporting the improvement of supervisory capacities and the development of prudential regulations, and g) support for building capacity at the SSC in the area of policy and regulation development. Building upon these will be the focus of the future. Specifically, following up on implementation of work that has begun and assisting in the strategic management of broader technical assistance needs. Next Steps for the Working Group The Donor group will meet again in early 2007 to address a broader range of topics in the financial sector. In the meantime, the donors will be asked if they have any specific areas of concern or questions they would like to be addressed related to these subjects for inclusion in the agenda. Additional actions should include: Continuing to update the donor matrix by identifying new technical assistance and notifying SBV and the Bank when projects have been completed. Continuing to provide for the matrix, greater detail as outlined at a prior donor meeting on future and existing projects. Continue transitioning the Matrix to the SBV to revise, update, and disseminate regularly. The comprehensive matrix covering the technical assistance and lending support provided by all donors on the Government's financial sector reform agenda has been updated and completed projects moved to a separate section of the Matrix, but the Financial Sector Assistance Matrix continues to be organized by financial institution and then by function for ease of navigation, with active links to the appropriate contacts for each project, and it is posted on the World Bank Vietnam Country Office web site (www.worldbank.org.vn). 24 FINANCIAL SECTOR ASSISTANCE PROJECTS IN VIETNAM Financial Sector Donor Working Group As of September, 2006 REFORM AREA TASK DONOR / PROVIDER STATUS START DATE CONTACT State Owned Commercial Banks (SOCBs) Marc Gilbert, AFD Support for Implementation of ICB Restructuring Plan AFD Ongoing Sept. 2003 gilbertm@groupe-afd.org Support for the implementation of the restructuring plan World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank Ongoing 2004 for BIDV - phase 2 ASEM Trust Fund jseward@worldbank.org Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Reform internal audit of commercial banks GTZ Ongoing 2003 hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net David Brunell, USAID IT upgrades (core banking data processing systems) of dbrunell@usaid.gov USAID - VNCI Ongoing 2004 joint stock banks Bob Webster, VNCI robert@vnci.org TA on overall strengthening of risk management, assets- liabilities management, conversion to IAS accounting to Swiss trust fund Asia Commercial Bank (ACB) - US$ 850,000. Major components: 1. Credit Risk Management (including Gap analysis, rec- ommendation, scoring models for corporate and retail loans): completed Lam Bao Quang Dutch fund On-going 2002 2. IFRS reporting training: completed Clquang@ifc.org 3. IT mordernization: contract is under negotiation 4. ALM related TA: contract is under negotiation Bank Restructuring 5.Strategic Planing: consultant selection is under the Japanese fund process IFC 6. Senior resident advisor: consultant selection is under the process TA on overall strengthening of risk management, assets- liabilities management, conversion to IAS accounting to Swiss trust fund Saigon Commercial Bank (Sacombank) - US$ 850,000. Major components: Lam Bao Quang, IFC 1. Credit Risk Management: completed On-going 2002 lquang@ifc.org 2. IT mordernization: completed Dutch fund 3. ALM: completed Japanese fund 4. Senior resident advisor: consultant selection is under IFC the process. Advisory assistance for the Mekong Housing Bank equi- Sin Foong Wong IFC Ongoing 2004 tization transaction Swong@ifc.org Barbara Jäggin, Swiss Embassy Mekong Housing Bank TA for Credit Management, Barbara.jaeggin@han.rep.admin.ch Treasury and Asset Liability Management, HR manage- Seco / Private Sector Ongoing 2004 Quondam Partners, Juerg Vontobel ment, IT,and MIS quondam@bluewin.ch 25 Barbara Jäggin, Swiss Embassy Seco (Swiss Embassy) / Barbara.jaeggin@han.rep.admin.ch Workshops in Bank Restructuring Approved Dec-03 Private Sector Quondam Partners, Juerg Vontobel quondam@bluewin.ch Xiaofeng Hua, WB Second Payment System and Bank Modernization xhua@worldbank.org World Bank Ongoing 2005 Project James Seward, World Bank Payment System Jseward@worldbank.org Payment System and Bank Modernization for VBARD Marc Gllbert, AFD AFD Ongoing Sept.2003 (extension of the WB PSBM) gilbertm@groupe-afd.org World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank Auditing IAS Audits 2003-2004 for ICB Ongoing 2003 ASEM Trust Fund jseward@worldbank.org Joint Stock Banks (JSBs) Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Risk Management for Joint Stock Banks GTZ Ongoing 2003 hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net TA to the JSBs on credit risk management, asset / liabili- Barbara Jäggin, Swiss Embassy Seco (Swiss Embassy) / BTC Ongoing Dec 2005 ty management and human resource development Barbara.jaeggin@han.rep.admin.ch Credit Risk Management and Loan Portfolio Management - Workbook IFC-SME department and - Training manual On-going Nguyen Hanh Nam, IFC/MPDF Risk Management IFC-MPDF Jul-05 - Training of trainers NNam@ifc.org Netherlands trust fund - Training courses US$ 60,000 Partner: Bank Training Center (BTC) Training and enforcement of capacities, specially in the AFD Marc Gilbert, AFD fields of credit policies, risk management and sectoral On-going Sept. 2003 gilbertm@groupe-afd.org analysis for VBARD Support to Bank Training Center (BTC) to provide quality training to commercial banks Major components: Nguyen Hanh Nam, IFC/MPDF Organizational Change - Building the capacity of trainers IFC-MPDF On-going 2002 NNam@ifc.org - Certification program for credit function US$ 175,000/year Partner: Bank Training Center (BTC) 26 State Bank of Vietnam (SBV) Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ SBV restructuring GTZ Ongoing 2002 Hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net Lara Bremmer, CIDA Long-term training and technical assistance to the SBV larachristine.bremmer@international.gc.ca CIDA Feb. 2004 on supervisory, regulatory and banking services issues Ongoing Chris Mains, BRP Project Manager crmfca@aol.com Organizational Change SBV Capacity Building in Regulation, Supervision, and World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank Ongoing 2003 Development ASEM Trust Fund jseward@worldbank.org Guidance on reforming the SBV to be modern central Il Houng Lee, IMF, lee@imf.org MF/MFD/APD Ongoing Mar-06 bank Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Francisco Fontan, EC SBV Capacity Building European Union Proposed 2005 Francisco.Fontan@cec.eu.int Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Strengthening banking supervision/auditing GTZ Ongoing 2000 Hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net Transition of VAS to IAS for banks and improving finan- World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank Ongoing 2003 cial reporting ASEM Trust Fund Jseward@worldbank.org Anti-money laundering- assessment and assistance for VV Subramanian, ADB ADB Ongoing Sept. 2003 drafting decree, action plan for FIU establishment vsubramanian@adb.org Anti-money laundering- assessment and assistance for drafting decree, assisting the FIU operation and training Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org IMF/MFD/LEG Ongoing Dec. 03 its staff, and providing education to the public on anti- Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Supervision/ Safety-Soundness money laundering. Standards World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank Full Basel Core Principle Assessment of the SBV Ongoing 2003 ASEM Trust Fund jseward@worldbank.org James Seward, World Bank Assisted self-assessment of the Basel Core Principles World Bank/ASEM Trust Fund Ongoing 2004 Jseward@worldbank.org Advisory services for strengthening banking regulation Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org IMF/MFD Ongoing 2004 and supervision Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Compliance and Audit of Bank Supervision Information Hans Farnhammer, EC Requirements & Training for SBV bank inspectors in the European Union Ongoing 2005 Hans.Farnhammer@cec.eu.int field of bank supervision 27 Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Review of State Bank and Credit Institutions Laws GTZ Ongoing 2003 Hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net Lara Bremmer/CIDA Technical advice on the State Bank and Credit larachristine.bremmer@international.gc.ca CIDA Ongoing Jun-03 Institutions Laws Chris Mains/BRP Project Manager crmfca@aol.com Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Introduction of international standards (Basel Principles) GTZ Ongoing Hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net Workshops, legal analysis and reference materials to Dennis Zvinakis, USAID support the development by the SBV of the key imple- dzvinakis@usaid.gov USAID-STAR Project Ongoing Aug. 2004 menting decrees for the amended Law on Credit Steve Parker, STAR Institutions Steve_Parker@DAI.com Dennis Zvinakis, USAID dzvinakis@usaid.gov Support for developing Decree on Foreign Banks USAID (STAR Project) Ongoing Aug-04 Legal Framework for Steve Parker, STAR Banking Steve_Parker@DAI.com Dennis Zvinakis, USAID Support for developing the Law on Negotiable dzvinakis@usaid.gov USAID (STAR Project) Ongoing Nov-04 Instruments Steve Parker, STAR Steve_Parker@DAI.com Assisting the SBV to draft the foreign exchange Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org ordinance IMF/MFD/LEG Approved Feb-Jun 05 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Assisting the SBV to draft various Decisions on Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org strengthening banking supervision legal framwork and IMF/MFD/LEG Ongoing Nov-04 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org operation Assisting the SBV to draft Decree on information Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org IMF/APD Ongoing Jun-06 provision for serving the monetary policy management Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org James Seward, World Bank Credit Information Assessment of the CIC World Bank / Spanish CTF Ongoing Nov. 2003 Jseward@worldbank.org 28 Implementation of strategic framework: drafting legal framework and partnership building: support setup of a private sector credit bureau US$ 110,000 Major components: 1. Technical Assistance: provide legal TA to SBV. This would include: - Developing legal framework - Developing code of conduct MPDF On-going May-06 Nguyen Hanh Nam, IFC/MPDF - Establishing licensing requirements. NNam@ifc.org - Providing on-going consultation throughout the process and promotion/dissemination activities. 2. Partnership building/Sourcing: The project will seek interest from potential international credit bureaus and commitment from banking community and then as the trust broker, facilitate the establishment of a private credit bureau with participation of a reputable foreign investor/sponsor. Partner: State Bank of Vietnam Dennis Zvinakis, USAID Assessment of and technical workshops on the financial dzvinakis@usaid.gov sector implications of the US-Vietnam Bilateral Trade USAID-STAR Project Ongoing Nov. 2002 Steve Parker, STAR Agreement Steve_Parker@DAI.com Assistance to SBV in formulating the strategy for inter- Graham Alliband, CEG Facility AusAID Ongoing Oct. 2004 national integration for the banking sector Galliband@ceg.edu.com Karl-Anders Larsson, SIDA Reserves Management Capacity Building SIDA/Swedish Central Bank Ongoing May-03 karl-anders.larsson@sida.se International Agreements Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Safeguards Assessment IMF/Treasurer's Department Ongoing 2001 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Assistance to the SBV to accept Article VIII of Article of Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Agreement of the IMF, allowing Vietnam to liberalise its IMF/LEG Approved Feb/June 05 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org the current accounts 29 Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Assistance in auditing the SBV IMF/MFD Ongoing 2004 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Assistance in foreign exchange reserve management IMF/MFD Ongoing Mar-06 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Reserves Management Barbara Jäggin, Swiss Embassy Financial market/policies Seco (Switzerland) / Phase I: 1997-1999 Barbara.jaeggin@han.rep.admin.ch Train the trainer, HR management/appraisal, empirical Graduate Institute for Ongoing Phase II: 2000-2002 Graduate Institute of International Studies research skills International Studies Phase III: 2003-2005 Geneva, Prof. Camen Camen@hei.unige.ch Training in Macroeconomic model-building and INSEE/Banque de France/ Alain Fontanel Ongoing 2002 forecasting ADETEF Afontanel@hotmail.com Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Workshops in Macroeconomic Policy Coordination IMF Ongoing 2002 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Karl-Anders Larsson, SIDA Staff exchange Sida/Swedish Central Bank Ongoing 2003 karl-anders.larsson@sida.se Guidance on monetary policy instruments and opera- Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org IMF/MFD Ongoing 2004 tions Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Training SBV and Commercial Bankers, Monetary Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ Monetary Policy GTZ Ongoing 2002 Instruments Ahauskrecht@aol.com Advisor on monetary policy, international reserve man- Yamada Minoru, JICA Vietnam JICA Newly adopted Sept.2006 agement and development of secondary market for debt Yamada.Minoru@jica.go.jp Assistance in calculating and forecasting core-inflation as Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org IMF/MFD Ongoing Sept.2006 well as constructing monetary framework Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Assistance in development of a database for tracking Alessandro A. Pio, ADB ADB Approved May-03 money market transactions Apio@adb.org Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Assistance on monetary statistic and reporting system IMF/STA Ongoing Apr-05 Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Statistics and database Il Houng Lee, IMF, ilee@imf.org Assistance onbalance of payments statistics Ongoing Apr-06 IMF/STA Nga Ha, IMF, nha@imf.org Yasuhisa Ojima, JBIC Money Market Development SME Finance Project (ii) JBIC On-going 2005 y-ojima@jbic.go.jp Thao Nguyen, KfW, thao.nguyen@kfw.de SME Credit Policies SME Credit Line (ICBV) KfW Approved 2001 Giang Tran, KfW, giang@kfwvn.com 30 SME Development Program Loan (co-financed with ADB Thao Nguyen, KfW, thao.nguyen@kfw.de KfW Ongoing Dec-04 and AFD) Giang Tran, KfW, giang@kfwvn.com Hans Farnhammer, EC SME Revolving Fund European Union Ongoing Oct. 2004 Hans.Farnhammer@cec.eu.int Marc Gllbert Housing Credit Line through Mekong Housing Bank AFD Ongoing 2004 gilbertm@groupe-afd.org David Brunell, USAID Vietnam Competitiveness Initiative - training and dbrunell@usaid.gov technical assistance to joint stock banks (JSBs) to USAID - VNCI Completed 2004 Bob Webster, VNCI facilitate access to finance for SMEs robert@vnci.org Provide loan guarantees for Vietnamese joint stock David Brunell, USAID banks to promote (a) credit extended to SMEs and (b) USAID On-going 2003 dbrunell@usaid.gov cashflow-based lending practices Comprehensive TA for the reform and development of World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank On-going 2003 the Bank for Social Policies (VBSP) ASEM Trust Fund Jseward@worldbank.org Assist the SBV strengthen risk-based bank supervision, including through simplification of database and staff Il Houng Lee, IMF ilee@imf.org training. Provide comments on off-site banking supervi- Banking Supervision IMF/MFD Ongoing Apr. 2004 Nga Ha, IMF sion plan of the SBV, and asset classification, prudential Nha@imf.org ratio, and internal audit regulations for commercial banks. Assist the SBV strengthen OMO, TB, and money market Il Houng Lee, IMF operations. Introduce indirect monetary policy manage- ilee@imf.org Monetary and Exchange Operations IMF/MFD Ongoing April-Nov. 2005 ment tools and methods to SBV staff, including on sterili- Nga Ha, IMF zation and setting policy rates. Nha@imf.org Policy Lending Institutions Comprehensive TA for the reform and development of World Bank / European Union James Seward, World On-going 2003 the Bank for Social Policies (VBSP) ASEM Trust Fund BankJseward@worldbank.org Operational Framework Comprehensive TA for the reform and development of World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank On-going 2003 the Bank for Social Policies (VBSP) ASEM Trust Fund Jseward@worldbank.org Government of Banking Training Training for Vietnamese bankers Ongoing 2005-2007 amlux@fpt.vn Luxembourg/ATTF 31 Microfinance Institutions (MFIs) Implementing the regulatory and supervisory framework Brett Coleman ADB Approved Jun-06 for microfinance Bcoleman@adb.org Modernizing a number of People's Credit Fund and Développement international improving the services of the Central People's Credit Approved Feb. 2004 jmcrevier@did.qc.ca Desjardins (DID)/CIDA Fund Loan and technical assistance to support rural enterprise Bui Trong Nghia, ADB ADB Ongoing Nov. 2000 finance through VBARD and People's Credit Funds btnghia@adb.org Support development of People's Credit Funds (External Andreas Hauskrecht, GTZ GTZ Restart 2004 Audit, Internal Audit and PCF supervision) Ongoing hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net Marc Gllbert Loan to support rural enterprise finance through VBARD On-going Sept. 2003 AFD gilbertm@groupe-afd.org Takayuki Sato, JBIC Study On Rural Finance JBIC On-going Feb. 2003 ta-sato@jbic.go.jp Thao Nguyen, kfW, thao.nguyen@kfw.de Rural Credit and Saving Program (VBARD) KfW Approved 2002 Access to Microfinance Giang Tran, KfW, giang@kfwvn.com Thao Nguyen, kfW, thao.nguyen@kfw.de Revolving Credit Fund for Poverty Alleviation (VBARD) KfW Approved 2001 Giang Tran, KfW, giang@kfwvn.com Rural Finance Loan - Micro-finance Loan Fund (MLF) Liza Valenzuela, World Bank and its implementation agencies (Micro-finance World Bank Ongoing 2003 lvalenzuela@worldbank.org Institutions, MFIs) Institutional strengthening for the Vietnam Women's Marcus Leroy, Embassy of Belgium Union on providing microfinance and advice on the MFI Approved 2004 Embassy of Belgium badc@hn.vnn.vn legal framework Institutional strengthening for the Vietnam Women's Embassy of Belgium Marcus Leroy, Embassy of Belgium Union on providing microfinance and advice on the MFI Approved 2004 badc@hn.vnn.vn legal framework Institutional strengthening for the Vietnam Women's Marcus Leroy, Embassy of Belgium Union on providing microfinance and advice on the MFI Embassy of Belgium Approved 2004 badc@hn.vnn.vn legal framework Non-Bank Financial Institutions (NBFIs) Second Financial Sector Program Loan to support the development of alternative channels of market-based financial intermediation including insurance sector, leas- VV Subramanian, ADB, Leasing ADB On-going Jan. 2003 ing sector, money market and capital market, and finan- vsubramanian@adb.org cial market infrastructure such as secured transactions registration and accounting association 32 Program Loan, co-financed with ADB and AFD to facili- Helmut Schoen, KfW tate diversification of funding sources of financial leasing KfW Ongoing Dec. 2004 companies to improve credit access for SMEs helmut.schoen@kfw.de Second Financial Sector Program Loan, cofinanced with Marc Gilbert, AFD AFD On-going 2003 ADB, to support the non banking financial sector. gilbertm@groupe-afd.org Technical Assistance for Capacity Building for Nonbank VV Subramanian, ADB ADB Ongoing 2003 Financial Institutions and the Capital Market vsubramanian@adb.org Andreas Hauskrecht Capital Market Development GTZ Ongoing 2004/5 Hauskrecht@sbcglobal.net TA for the State Securities Commission (SSC) for capaci- World Bank / European Union James Seward, World Bank ty building, linking the equitization process with market Ongoing 2003 ASEM Trust Fund Jseward@worldbank.org development, and investor education. Strengthening Ho Chi Minh &Hanoi Securities Trading Oshikiri Koji, JICA Vietnam JICA Newly adopted 2006 Centers Oshikiri.Koji @jica.go.jp Assistance to the MOF to develop the corporate bond Kengo Mizuno, NRI NRI (Japan) Approved 2004 market k-mizuno@nri.co.jp Assistance to the Government (MOF, SBV, MPI, OOG, Trinh Tien Dung, UNDP UNDP Ongoing 2000 MOJ) for external debt management Trinh.tien.dung@undp.org Market-Based Financial Intermediation Capacity building assistance to the MOF for financial Trinh Tien Dung, UNDP UNDP Ongoing 2003 policy analysis Trinh.tien.dung@undp.org Comprehensive assessment of municipal bond market Paul Marin, USTDA USTDA Approved 2004 issuances and development PMarin@tda.gov Support the SSC to develop the legal framework for securities market development and build capacity for David Brunell, USAID USAID Ongoing Sep-05 SSC and other securities intermediaries; provide public dbrunell@usaid.gov and investor education and training Capacity building for the National Registration Agency of Armes Adhikari, ADB ADB On-going Dec. 2002 Secured Transactions Radhikari@adb.org 33 Secured Transactions Legal Framework Review and Improvement of the National Registration Agency of Secured Transactions: i) Data collection, analysis of the current lending environment and assistance in address- ing the shortcomings in the legal framework Nguyen Hanh Nam, IFC/MPDF, IFC-MPDF and FIAS Approved May 20006 (ii) Assistance in identifying the discrepancies in the Nnam@ifc.org institutional set up and operation of the NRAST (secured transactions registry) system (iii) Public awareness and knowledge dissemination activities for the end users of the system Supporting the Ministry of Justice to develop the legal framework for secured transactions. Sustainable finance program for financial institutions - based on the business case: manage risks and opportu- nities that arise from social and environmental issues. Major components: IFC-SFMF and - Awareness raising seminars (completed) IFC-MPDF - Training of trainers Nguyen Hanh Nam, IFC/MPDF, Sustainable Finance - Sustainable finance training (cost sharing) On-going Aug-05 Luxemburg trust fund Nnam@ifc.org - Targeted technical assistance to committed banks (based on cost-sharing) US$ 230,000 Partner: Bank Training Center (BTC) as implementing agency, targets all financial institutions in Vietnam. 34 THE PARTNERSHIP GROUP FOR SME PROMOTION AND PRIVATE SECTOR DEVELOPMENT (SMEPG) Report To The Consultative Group On the 20th of November 2006, the members of the Partnership Group gathered at the MPI. The meeting was co-chaired by the MPI agency for SME Development (ASMED), ADB and DANIDA. Participants in the meeting from the Government side were from MPI/ASMED and some Business Associations, Hanoi DPI/SME promotion Centre, VCCI. On the side of donors and international organizations the meeting was attended by agencies, donors and projects involved in PSD and SME development. Opening remarks Mr. Bui Liem, Deputy Director-General of ASMED welcomed the 50 representatives from the donor community and the Government agencies on behalf of the co-chairs and shortly presented the agenda for the meeting. ASMED updates Mr. Trung, ASMED Director General, welcomed everyone once again and informed the participants of the results achieved by ASMED since the last meeting in May 2006. 1. Firstly, the Prime Minister improved the first "SME Development Plan" of Vietnam for the period 2006-2010 with Decision 236 on the 23rd of October 2006. The SME Development Council will be monitoring the progress made under the plan on a continuous basis. Mr. Trung invited the donor community to align their interventions according to the priorities indicated in the SME Development Plan. 2. In order to implement the Enterprise Law, Decree 88 on Business Registration was issued on the 29th of August 2006 and its circular was issued on the 19th of October. ASMED, the General Department of Tax, Ministry of Public Security, the General Statistics Office and representatives from provinces completed the design of the nationwide registration reform program and the technical assistance proposal at the end of October with assistance from UNIDO. 3. ASMED has been working on clarifying the responsibilities and tasks of each ministry and agency in SOE management and reform in order to create a new regulatory framework to expedite the SOE reform efforts. 4 .In order to achieve results more effectively and in the shortest time possible AMSED has put a lot of effort into coordinating activities among donor-assisted programs. 5. The Business Portal, which contains information on all business licences, currently in effect, is expected to be launched in December. 6. ASMED/MPI hosted the 7th Micro Enterprise Sub-Group Meeting, 23rd SME Working Group and the 13th SME Ministerial Meeting within APEC 2006 during 25 to 29 September 2006 in Hanoi with participants from 21 APEC member economies. The Hanoi Declaration on 7. "Strengthening SMEs competitiveness for trade and investment" was adopted as the main output of the Ministerial Meeting. 8. SME promotion programs implemented by ASMED and other counterparts with the financial support from ADB, DANIDA, EU, GTZ, UNIDO, IFC, ILO, JICA, USAID and others have been assisting provincial authorities in improving the competitiveness of SMEs at local level. 35 Mr. Nguyen Trong Hieu Manager, SME Promotion Division, ASMED, MPI shortly introduced the 5 year SME development plan for 2006-2010 approved by the Prime Minister according to the Decision No. 236/2006/QD-TTg on October 23rd 2006. The 5 year plan contents 5 overall subjects: SME Development Viewpoints Realize consistently the policy of building a multi-sectoral economy. The State creates a sound policy, a legal and institutional environment that ensures fair and healthy competition for SMEs and service providers of all economic sectors. Develop SMEs in an active and sustainable way, enhance the quality and the quantity of the sector to attain economic efficiency and realize the goal of contribution to employment generation, poverty reduction, and ensure social safety and security State support will gradually be shifted from direct support to indirect support to enhance the capacity of SMEs The State will link business activities with environmental protection and assurance of social security and safety Raise awareness of governments of all levels about the role played by SMEs in socio economic development Goals of SME development Boost the progress rate of SME development, create an environment for healthy competition, strengthen the national competitiveness so that SMEs are to contribute more and more to the national economy The number of newly established SMEs will be 320,000 (annual growth rate of 22%); The number of newly established SMEs in disadvantaged provinces will have increased by 15% by 2010; The ratio of SMEs having direct export is 3-6%; SMEs will create about 2.7 million new jobs in the period 2006-2010; There will be additionally 165,000 technical workers in SMEs Main Tasks To improve and ensure the stability of the legal framework and reform the administrative procedures and financial policies for SME development To assess new policies' impacts on SMEs, organize periodical dialogues between public authorities and SMEs To adjust the tax system to encourage start-ups, conduct the reform of the accounting system, and reporting requirements Improve the access to land and work premise, and enhance the environment protection o Develop market (both supply and demand) for business development services Revise regulations to boost the establishment of SME credit guarantee funds at the local level Boost the implementation of support programs to disseminate and apply modern technologies and advanced techniques for SMEs Accelerate the development of the business information system Conduct general information and awareness raising activities to disseminate entrepreneur spirit and the awareness of legal wealth creation to all Improve the effectiveness in coordinating SME development support activities 36 Main Actions Group of Measures 1: Simplifying regulations to facilitate business registration, market entry and business activities of enterprises; Group of Measures 2: Creating access to land and work premise for SMEs; Group of Measures 3: Facilitating SMEs access to finance, with priorities for enterprises having export products and high value added products; Group of Measures 4: Support programs for increasing capacity and improving competitiveness of SMEs; Group of Measures 5: Developing skilled labor force to meet the requirements of SME development plan for the period 2006-2010; Group of Measures 6: Creating a social attitude towards the SME sector; Group of Measures 7: Management of the implementation of the SME Development Plan 2006-2010 Guidelines for the Plan Implementation At central level The SME Promotion Council will exercise overall co-ordination of the Plan implementation. MOF is responsible for consolidating and developing the budget plan under the State Budget to ensure the implementation of the SME Development Plan in coordination with MPI Ministries and agencies are responsible for preparing and carry out specific tasks as per assignment and schedule defined in the Plan. At local level Provincial People's Committees are responsible for formulating of their own provincial SME Development Plans and detailed Action Plan and the implementation roadmaps Provincial/municipal "Coordination Unit for SME Development Plan implementation" shall be established directly under the People's Committees Annually, a report on implementation of provincial/municipal SME development plans is prepared and submitted to MPI for the consolidation and reporting to the Prime Minister The presentation was followed by a question session A representative from the Finnish embassy asked about the government budget allocated to the 5 year plan Mr. Hieu responded that this is the master plan and the budget will be allocated based on specific approved activities at the next stages. Mr. Thomas Finkel, GTZ asked whether the provincial governments could come up with their own SME plan and seek support from the government budget. Mr. Hieu responded they should try to estimate their need and seek approval. Ms. Mona Lien, Embassy of Sweden asked whether Mr. Hieu envisaged support would need to be phased out in some areas and strengthened in other areas according to the plan. Mr. Hieu responded that the plan has a number of action areas and it would be important for the Government to have donor's support in these areas. Mr. Jørn Sørensen, DANIDA adviser, was interested in how the number of new SMEs and the number of technical workers were calculated. 37 Mr. Hieu answered the number of tech workers is not directly related to the number of newly established enterprises. Mr. Henrik Vistisen, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA), asked Mr. Hieu to expand on how coordination of SME development will improve. Furthermore he raised the question whether the coordination includes donor-government coordination at central/local level. Mr Hieu stressed the importance of coordinating SME development activities. From the survey it is recognised that many support SME development, but coordination is not optimal. In order to increase effectiveness at both central and local levels, overall coordination should be improved. Mr. Liem summed up the answers and stressed coordination has high priority in ASMED's work and said it is one of ASMED's major tasks the coming years. Maintaining the SMEs Partnership Group meeting is a key tool for coordination. Mr. Le Quang Manh, ASMED, MPI continued to inform about ASMED's activities. ASMED has been busy drafting a guideline in order to effectively implement the new law on Enterprise, Enterprise Law 2005. 6 new decrees have been drafted. ASMED is in the process of creating a new legal framework for business registration nationwide in order to facilitate registration for emerging businesses. A Task Force for implementation of the new Enterprise Law and Investment Law was established within MPI. A secretariat was put in place to study and address policy constraints and problems. The Secretariat meets every Friday. From the report "Doing Business", ASMED noticed Vietnams' position is not optimal so they will study the top of the field regarding business registration in order to learn more on how to improve. One important difference between the top field and Vietnam is that these countries have the nec- essary IT- and information management systems in place. MPI has reached an agreement with Ministry of Finance (MOF) and Ministry of Public Security (MPS) on the modality of one location, one form and one ID code for registration of business, tax code and seals. To do this there are a number laws and regulations that need to be revised since the tax code registration is governed by the Tax and Accounting Law, while seal registration is covered by other laws. There is a need to synchronize such laws. In the initial period, exchange of dossiers between various agencies would be done manually or electronically, depending on the IT condition and infrastructure in the locality. The first goal is to reduce time for registration; a related goal will be to increase collaboration between the institutions involved in the registration. A draft inter-ministerial circular on business registration is available on VCCI's website. Ms. Nilgun Tas, UNIDO elaborated on the registration reform. MPI completed the technical assistance proposal and it has been submitted to UNIDO and other donors. An appraisal is expected to go through this year. Ms. Nguyen Hong Lien, the Business Information Centre of ASMED continued with the ASMED updates. She announced the Business Portal is expected to be launched in December. The contents of the website were completed and are subject to final review. It includes three components (i) business advice, (ii) licensing information, (iii) SMEs support institutions. There are 500 web-pages on business advice, 7000 web-pages covering 296 business licenses issued by 90 ministries and agencies and 300 pages on SMEs support institutions. Ms. Bui Thu Thuy, ASMED informed the meeting on the results of the 7th Micro-Enterprise Sub-Group (MESG), the 23rd SME Working Group Meeting (SMEWG) and the 13th SME 38 Ministerial Meeting (SMEMM) within the framework of APEC 2006 during 25 to 29 September 2006 in Hanoi. The said meetings were successfully hosted by MPI with the "Hanoi Declaration on SME competitiveness for trade and investment" to be adopted as the major deliverable of the SMEMM. The Hanoi Declaration emphasises the following issues: Capacity building for SME to take advantage of trade liberalisation Undertaking domestic reform, improving labour condition and fighting corruption Encouraging collaboration between business and government agencies Incorporation business incubation, innovation and entrepreneurship development as integral parts of the development strategies of APEC economies (http://www.apec.org) Mr. Liem added that the joint statement of the APEC ministers also was an important outcome of the meeting. Then Mr. Liem handed over the chairmanship to Mr. Henrik Vistisen, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA), who asked the SME-PG technical Working Group (WG) chairmen to begin their presentations. Working Groups under the SME-PG presentation WG on Sector Approaches: Mr. Dominic Smith, ADB, M4P, briefed about the group's activities since the last meeting. The group has met 3 times since last year. The group members are developing a practical handbook for linking value chain analysis to poverty reduction. The book is called "Making Value Chains Work Better for the Poor" and a draft is to be released next week at the M4P week. Furthermore the group contributed to the preparation of a Value Chain handbook by MesoPartner/GTZ. Mr. Smith concluded that the sector approaches/value chains is a topic that attracts a wide range of interest from NGOs, the private sector, donors and government agencies as the participants of the group come from various backgrounds and projects with different partners. However, due to time constrains the group meets less often than what initially was planned. Lastly, Mr. Smith announced the group was looking for a new chair to take his place and asked if anyone would be interested. Nilgun F. Tas, UNIDO asked if there were two handbooks, one from GTZ and one from ADB and was interested in how much coordination is achieved. Mr. Smith replied that indeed there were two books, ADB' value chain handbook provides a practical tool to provincial level people to do value chain analysis Mr. Thomas Finkel, GTZ added that they are complimentary handbooks. The one published by GTZ is a worldwide effort of GTZ to support value chain analysis by practitioners. It also covers how GTZ supports such initiatives. There are different topics in the two handbooks. Ms. Mona Lien, Embassy of Sweden, asked to the purpose and objective of the WG focusing on sector approaches. Mr. Smith explained that the main idea is to avoid overlap and to ensure activities are complimentary to each other. Mr. Thomas Finkel elaborated further and explained that the sector approach group is looking at products (as apposed to the group on Local Economic Governance) WG on economic reforms: Mr. Thomas Finkel, GTZ, explained that the group is a merger of the former "Business Research and Monitoring group" and the "Business Regulation Reform group". The members of the group besides ASMED consists of many different donors and projects; ADB, EU, USAID, DANIDA, GTZ, JAICA, JBIC. The group is considering inviting members from Vietnamese organisations involved to participate and contribute. The group is very happy that the SME Development Plan 39 2006-2010 is approved and acknowledges the UNIDO-MPI project's important role in the development of this plan. The new ADB SME Development Program ­ Subprogram II will provide a monitoring and evaluation framework for the group's work. The group and the different projects involved are focusing their work on: Research and policy advice at the national and local level Introducing new tools and ways for improving the business and investment climate. The meetings and close networking have resulted in a series of successful donor activities: EU-MPDF-GTZ cooperation on one stop shops and simplification of procedures at the provincial level (ongoing) VNCI and others on the rolling out of the PCI results and advising the provinces on how to improve MPDF-GTZ joint work on EL and IL (finished) GTZ-ADB on business licensing reform (to be continued) Ms. Helle Weeke, Project director of VNCI, explained the focus in VNCI PCI is on how the provinces can improve economic governance, and not how they can improve their ranking in the index. Mr. Liem, said that so far the SME-PG is not well known to the business community in Vietnam ­ he believed it is time to make the group better known. By doing so, the group can connect to the business groups in Vietnam and ensure stronger coordination. Working Group on Local Economic Governance (LEG) Mr. Kees van der Ree, ILO/PRISED informed the group has met 3 times in the last six months and the membership is expanding. At the moment it consists of 10 programmes/donors, but is still missing ASMED. The chair has moved from VNCI to ILO/PRISED. Some of the key issues discussed during the meetings are: Follow up on the results of PCI 2006 Regulatory constrains / costs of time and financial cost of registration and information access. New tools: PEGA, Interactive provincial diagnostic (PCI website), inter-department One Stop Service (OSS) Capacity building for (other) policy reforms and implementation at provincial level (MoHa, MPI, UNDP) Mr. Van der Ree then went on to the group's findings, which were: Many programmes make us of the PCI by building local dialogues around it Many are addressing cost of registration and access to regulatory information in different ways It is still difficult to engage the private sector (SMEs) in meaningful dialogues/reforms Programmes seem unaware of broader local Governance strengthening programmes and the need to mainstream with and support decentralization policies. Furthermore there seems to be a large scope for sharing and using each other's tools and technical resources and there is an increasing need for better, user-friendly and accessible "Good Provincial Practices" exchange. Mr. Van der Ree also acknowledged the importance of the SME Development Plan 2006-2010 as an important step towards more unified and aligned approaches Working Group on Business Development Services (BDS) Mr. Jørn Sørensen, DANIDA adviser, briefly gave an overview of the donors represented in the working group, in which provinces the donors work and what the scope of their programmes are. The key task is to coordinate activities between donors; there is very little overlap in terms of provinces. The different donor-programs have different aims. Furthermore he introduced the other members of the group. 40 He explained the group was inactive for some time due to the late arrival of the new chairman. The group was recently revived and is planning a BDS training course for staff of donor institutions working in BDS. The aim is to improve the donor staffs' ability to design good BDS interventions and it is planned that an ILO consultant plus other international and national consultants with strong BDS knowledge will give lectures. So far GTZ, REEP, SADU, PRISED, VPSSP, IDE, GCF (DANIDA), are all committed to sending representatives and the total amounts to 23-27 participants. In the future the group will discuss methodologies and best practices. The hope is to attract more members from the private sector and work more on the idea of a training course for BDS providers. Mr. Allan Johnson, M4P, ADB, asked what the objective on some of these groups are and how the progress is to be assessed. He found that the groups function as information exchange, which seems to be the lowest partnership level. He questioned why everyone is not in every group. And added himself that - since there is an opportunity cost to attending the meetings - there has to be some kind of output for one to attend. Working Group on SME finance A representative from the group, presented the participants of the group which include EC, ADB, financial adviser for the WB, ASMED. The last meeting was held in May. Mr. Kohata, the current chair of the group, could not be present and update on the group's activities, due to a health problem. Everyone has been very busy with the APEC meetings the last couple of months. Therefore, the activity level has been very low. Planned activities include a study tour to Japan to study experiences on SME finance (with participation of ASMED representatives). He also mentioned the possibility of rotating the chair within the group in the next meeting. A representative from USAID, took the opportunity to comment on the BDS report. He asked about the demand side and a sustainable market for BDS. In his opinion the theme needed elaboration and sharpening. According to him, the missing piece is the client/market ­ the willingness to have to pay for BDS. He welcomed the group's emphasize on the private sector and inclusion of private sector actors. Mr. Henrik Vistisen, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA), found it very encouraging that the BDS WG has tried to incorporate the private sector, private BDS providers and business associations in the group. He asked to the immediate plans of the different working groups and how the level of ambition could be raised. Mr. Jørn Sørensen, DANIDA adviser, answered that the group has all the measures that are needed to reach the targets within the different programmes. Mr. Thomas Finkel, GTZ stressed that the outcome of the groups' work is greater than time input. He believed the groups have gone far beyond information sharing; and said it was also knowledge management and best practice development. Furthermore the benefit is the personal contact and the network created by the working groups. He underlined that the clear indicator of the groups' successfulness and that people were benefiting, was the fact that people showed up for the meetings. Mr. Henrik Vistisen, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA), explained that the working groups were established in March 2005; before that there was only the SME-PG, which was established in 1999. The groups were established by a step-by-step approach and while most groups are used for information sharing and to some extent coordination, some of the groups are moving towards joint activities and potentially joint programming. The groups are a step in the right direction. The need to set up the working groups was indicated and requested by the Government of Vietnam with the view to reduce transactions cost on the Vietnamese side. 41 Ms. Nilgun Tas, UNIDO, added that the SME-PG working groups have been internationally appreciated in the OCED best practise report for donor coordination; "Promoting Private Investment for Development: The Role of ODA". Ms. Mona Lien, Embassy of Sweden, asked to the long-term ambitions of the groups and asked to ASMED's assessment of the groups. Mr. Liem, ASMED, expressed his gratitude towards all the WGs for their comprehensive work and appreciated everyone taking the time to participate. He thanked the 5 presenters of the working groups. He answered ASMED regards the WGs as important assets to the work of ASMED. The WGs work on a voluntary basis; the main purpose is coordination of support and assistance to the Government of Vietnam in facilitating SME development. Through the WGs, ASMED can get information of new ideas on how to assist the SME development in Vietnam. Mr. Liem expressed the wish to improve the forum and make the SME-PG more known to the business community and the foreign and domestic investors. He proposed to enlarge the scope of the forum by inviting the business associations and the foreign investors. The Vietnamese does not intend only to develop the business climate for Vietnamese SMEs, but for SMEs in general. He stressed that ASMED does not intend to evaluate the 6 working groups ­ the principle for participation is voluntary. Mr. Ayumi Konishi, ADB, was handed the chairmanship. Mr. Konishi acknowledged the work of the WGs and raised the issue of the SME-PG working even closer with the private sector in order to move forward and make the SME-PG and the WGs even more relevant. He stated it is a process of evolution ­ the PG does not have to maintain its present shape. Just before the CG meeting in December, the Vietnam Business Forum will take place. He wanted to open the discussion of whether a possible corporation with the Vietnam Business Forum (IFC-MPI) would be the way to go. He explained the Business Forum would make a presentation, and that the SME-PG likewise had been asked to make a presentation at the Vietnam Business Forum. He then introduced the IFC representative, Ms. Pham Lien Anh working for the Business Forum secretariat. Mr Konishi asked the participants four questions: 1. Should the PG try to develop closer relationship with the business forum? 2. If the answer to the first is yes, should we accept the invitation to make a presentation on the 13th of December? 3. What should we present? Who should present it? 4. In the intermediate term - what kind of relationship would we like to develop with the VBF? Mr. Thomas Finkel, GTZ, stated his positive attitude towards corporation as the working groups of the SME-PG and the Vietnam Business Forum are working on the same issues in some areas. Both forums are into public ­ private dialogue. The representative from USAID, suggested that the presentation held by SME-PG representatives should be no longer than 3-4 minutes presentation and 2 people from the SME-PG should do the presentation. With the extensive knowledge of the working groups the chairmen hold, he suggested they should meet and work out the presentation on behalf of the SME-PG. Lastly he added that the deadline for the presentations for the business forum is in fact today, hence the presentation needed to be produced very soon. 42 Mr. Liem, ASMED, agreed with Mr. Konishi on the need to develop the relations with the Business Forum. Over the last 8 years it has mostly been a forum for big business ­ there was no place for SMEs. He took the opportunity to suggest ADB to do the presentation. The draft should be circulated and be commented. Everyone agreed to the nomination of ADB. Ms. Pham Lien Anh, the Vietnam Business Forum Secretariat, gave a presentation about the work of the Vietnam Business Forum. The Vietnam Business Forum (VBF) was established in 1997 as a result of the Vietnam Consultative Group (CG) meeting in Tokyo. The main objectives are: To improve the investment and business environment in Vietnam To strengthen the role and voice of the private sector in Vietnam The method is to promote ongoing, structured policy dialogue between the business community and the Government. The VBF participants are domestic and foreign businesses, the government and donors. IFC and MPI is the organiser. The VBF has 8 working groups dealing with different aspects of the VBF's work. The VBF operates through meetings and dialogue between the public and the private sector. The issues raised are of generic interest to the private sector and presented in a constructive, solution-oriented manner. The key areas/themes are: To improve the tax regime To streamline registration/licensing procedures To facilitate more equitable access to land and land user rights To improve the banking system and develop the capital market To streamline the legislative regime in infrastructure development Labour regulations WTO related issues IPR & technology transfer The annual VBF focus for 2006 is: All sectors: WTO, Transparency, Corruption and bureaucracy. Legal issues: CIL/UEL implementing Decrees, draft of law on technology transfer, law on Notary Banking: Forex issues, Decree 22, WTO standards (UCP principles) Infrastructures: Port issues, power and telecom Tourism: Tourism Master Plan and PPP in development of tourism. Tax: removal of tax incentives, tax on securities, claim of tax exemption, deductible expenses. Labour: Amendment of Labour code, work permit, internal labour rules. Land and property: co-ordination between related ministries in formulation of laws and regulations, draft the implementing Decree of the law on property transaction Regarding possible cooperation with the SME-PG the VBF envisaged the following issues would be of joint interest for the two groups Provide inputs to design appropriate support programmes Instrument to monitor the impact of various reforms Cooperations in specific areas: Labour, tax, tourism, banking, infrastructures Capacity building of local business associations in advocacy 43 Lastly, Ms Lien Anh asked the SME-PG to confirm participation in the VBF as soon as possible. Ms. Nilgun Tas, UNIDO, said it would be appropriate to strengthen the relationship with the business forum since the donor platform has agreed to use the SME Development Plan 2006-2010 as a guideline. She suggested the SME Development Plan should be distributed along with the draft of the presentation for the Vietnam Business Forum in order for everyone to benefit from the information in the plan. Mr. Konishi, concluded the answer to the questions he raised was yes and accepted the nomination to do the presentation on behalf of the SME-PG at the Vietnam Business Forum in December. ADB wanted to do two presentations, but due to the limited time Mr. Konishi chose to announce that the M4P book was being launched at this very meeting and everyone was free to take a copy of the Vietnamese version. Mr. Liem Once again thanked everyone for taking on the workload of the SME-PG. Knowing that all partners are very busy with their daily work rotating co-chairmanship has been established (alphabetic order according to the list of participants). This arrangement is in order to spread the burden of co-chairmanship. Except for ASMED the other co-chairs are donors. Since it is ADB's second SME-PG meeting as co-chair, ASMED has already contacted the next possible co-chair. ASMED has asked Germany to co-chair the next meeting. Everyone agreed Germany would co-chair the next meeting. ASMED and MPI thanked ADB for its' extensive support to ASMED and hoped ADB would co-chair on a later occasion. Mr. Konishi, summed up the results of the meeting. He thanked everyone for participating in the meeting and concluded it had been a successful step towards closer cooperation with the VBF. The future work of the SME-PG will try to seek closer collaboration with the business forum especially concerning working groups. ADB will prepare a draft presentation introducing the PG and the results. 44 EDUCATION SECTOR GROUP November 2006 Coordination The Education Sector Group (ESG) is a partnership between the Ministry of Education and Training (MOET) and international donor agencies, whose aim is to coordinate international support for educational development in Vietnam and to promote more effective assistance for the achievement of Government objectives in education. The ESG comprises a Secretariat formed by MOET, its invitees, and representatives of UN, multilateral and bilateral agencies having substantial program interests and support in the education sector. Three international non-governmental organizations, selected by the VUFO-NGO Resource Center, also participate in the ESG. The full ESG aims to meet every other month and on an ad hoc basis as required. The ESG International Partners (ESG-IP) meet in the intervening months to discuss education issues of interest to the donor community, and in 2006 created task forces to address specific issues. ESG Secretariat & Budget. Beginning in 2006, the ESG strengthened and formalized its coordination mechanism through a Joint Funding Agreement between MOET and the Like-Minded Donor Group 1 (LMDG) . This agreement, signed in late 2005, establishes common purposes, principles and working arrangements for the ESG. MOET's International Cooperation Department, through the ESG Secretariat, has leadership and management responsibility for the Group, including preparation of an annual work plan. The LMDG agreed to appoint the United Kingdom/ DFID as the lead agency on behalf of the ESG-IP to work with MOET, and has provided almost 100,000 USD for the ESG's activities over the 18-month period 01/06 ­ 06/07. This budget includes the salary of a full-time secretary, annual meetings and retreat, policy and research studies on key issues, and support of a website and library. Website and Library. The ESG website ­ http://esg.moet.gov.vn/index.php ­ went online in mid-2006. The library ­ designed as a collection of documents and materials on education in Vietnam ­ is housed in MOET, and to date it consists primarily of Government documents and studies in Vietnamese. International partners will also contribute materials to the library. Donors Activities Map. The ESG has prepared a database of basic information on ODA-, NGO- and Government-financed education projects/programs in Vietnam in a user-friendly format. The database is now online as part of the Development Assistance Database Viet Nam (http://dad.mpi.gov.vn). Retreat. The ESG will organize its annual members' retreat in December 2006. Topics to be discussed include progress made during 2006, lessons learned, and formation of the 2007 work plan. Harmonization 2 ESG is organized to reflect partnership, with a MOET Co-Chair and two Donor Co-Chairs . ESG members engage in policy dialogue together through the Annual Education Dialogue Meeting. ESG has in addition made progress towards the Hanoi Core Statement on Harmonization, through a number of joint activities, including drafting the VDR 2007, designing and financing a series of PRSCs, supporting the Government's application of FSQLs, and financing the Government's EFA Action Plan through a national targeted program. Vietnam Development Report 2007. The ESG-IP is contributing to the drafting of the Education chapter of the VDR 2007, which takes a look at Vietnam's achievements over the period of the 1 The LMDG consists of Australia, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom. 2 Current donor co-chairs are European Commission and UNICEF. 45 Comprehensive Poverty Reduction and Growth Strategy 2000-2005 and considers the key challenges over the period of the Socio-Economic Development Plan 2006-2010. Poverty Reduction Support Credits. Education featured prominently in the first cycle of PRSCs (2000- 2005), and will likely feature strongly in the new cycle. The ESG-IP, in conjunction with MOET, worked together to propose appropriate triggers and actions for the Education "strand" of the first PRSC cycle, and is mobilizing again to propose a new strand of triggers and actions for the upcoming cycle, linked to the themes of the VDR 2007. Fundamental School Quality Levels Review. The ESG-IP, at MOET's invitation, provided comments on an early draft of the revised FSQL regulation, setting minimum input standards for primary schools (in the areas of infrastructure, teacher qualifications, textbooks, etc.) that aim to ensure that all students have access to an education of adequate quality. The FSQL regulation is an important tool in allocating resources in an objective way to schools with the greatest needs and in evaluating progress in reducing the educational deficit found in schools in the most disadvantaged areas of the country. Given this importance, the ESG-IP have, in a second round of comments, have raised two key points: first, that the "fundamental" nature of the regulation be maintained and that the standards not be set at an unattainable level, as this may divert resources from schools with the greatest need to those with less need; and second, that greater attention be paid to the qualitative aspects of education. 3 Education-for-All Targeted Budget Support Program. Eight of the ESG-IP donor agencies are providing resources and technical assistance to support the implementation of the Government's Education National Targeted Program (ENTP), which, broadly speaking, aims to achieve a more equitable distribution of basic education outcomes in Vietnam and builds capacity within the Government (especially MOET and Ministry of Finance at central and local levels) in ENTP management. During the period under review, the donor agencies joined the MOET in reviewing progress in ENTP implementation, which relies on Government systems for financial management, procurement and reporting in a highly harmonized approach. Multi-Donor Thematic Initiatives ESG members have mobilized effectively around a number of themes that draw in many agencies. These initiatives involve different ways of working, including workshops and analytic work, as the following examples show. Inclusive Education Strategy. With a view to providing all children with equal opportunities to access 4 quality education in typical primary school classrooms, the MoET in 2006 began to adapt "Inclusive Learning Friendly Environments" for use within the Vietnamese education system. The resulting materials are being piloted as part of the Primary Education for Disadvantaged Children (PEDC) 5 Project . In parallel, a National Conference disseminated draft inclusive education policy and strategy recommendations to all provincial leaders, national experts and other education actors. The workshop agreed on the next steps of the policy process, to be led by MOET, to commence in January 2007. The objectives of both initiatives are to extend the focus of inclusive education to all children facing barriers to learning, including disabled children, as well as those not perceived to be at risk. In addition, for a specific target group ­ children living with a disability (CWD) ­, MOET's the 6 National Institute of Educational Strategy and Curriculum (NIESAC) prepared a draft Strategy for Education for Children with Disabilities 2006-2010 and Vision to 2015. The objective of the Strategy is to develop a sustainable and synchronized approach to education for children with disabilities, 3 Seven donors (European Commission, Belgium, CIDA, DFID, NZAID, AECI-Spain and the World Bank) through one operation and an eighth donor (Norway) through a separate but similar operation. 4 With the support of UNESCO, UNICEF East Asia Regional Office and Save the Children Sweden. 5 With financing from World Bank, AusAid, CIDA, DFID and Norway. 6 With the support of Catholic Relief Services and the United States Agency for International 46 identify societal resources to support the plan, and link education for CWD to the overall EFA plan. MOET will present a final draft of the strategy to the Government in December 2006. ESG members contributed comments on the previous draft in a March 2006 meeting, as well as through individual member agencies. Some of the content of the strategy is also reflected in the MOET Guidelines on Inclusive Education, signed by the Vice-Minister in charge in May 2006. United Nations Girls Education Initiative. Under the umbrella of the United Nations Girls' Education Initiative (UNGEI), UNICEF and UNESCO, in collaboration with MOET, carried out a study on the "Transition of Ethnic Minority Girls from Primary to Secondary Education". This study, conducted in three provinces, investigated the reasons behind low transition rates of ethnic minority girls and makes recommendations that would enable ethnic minority girls to complete primary education and make the transition to the lower secondary level. The study is a major step forward in understanding the context of gender inequality in education in Vietnam and will serve as critical basis to inform future policy initiatives by MOET. 7 Early Childhood Care and Development. In May 2006, an Education Forum focused on promoting efforts to build a stronger national ECCD system, with emphasis on issues related to policy, language 8 and quality of ECCD. The core members of the ECCD Interagency Working Group also coordinated technical contribution to various project initiatives of international organization in the area of ECCD, and efforts are under way to strengthen partnerships in activities such as materials development, workshops and capacity building. HIV/AIDS & Education. Until recently, education projects concerned with HIV/AIDS, such as life skills and reproductive health education, have been largely uncoordinated. Given its principle function to promote effective coordination of various efforts in the education sector, the ESG formed a Taskforce on HIV/AIDS and Education, as a forum to forge partnerships and harmonization for maximum effectiveness. Discussions facilitated by the Taskforce include coordination of the National Action Plan for HIV/AIDS and Reproductive Health Education, school health and nutrition and general discussions around future collaboration. The Taskforce will continue to promote a comprehensive and coordinated sector-wide strategy for HIV/AIDS and school health within the education sector. United Nations Decade of Education for Sustainable Development. Following the establishment of the Vietnam National DESD Committee in 2005, the DESD was launched in Hanoi in February 2006 with the participation of representatives of Government departments, academia, international organizations and the media. The National DESD Committee, with representation from MOET, the Ministry of Science and Technology, the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and the Ministry of Culture and Information, has drafted a detailed Plan of Action, which will likely receive Prime Ministerial approval shortly. By the end of 2006, a DESD Advocacy Workshop will be organized for participants from national and provincial levels to promote greater understanding of the DESD framework. 7 The Education Forum is organized by MOET, UNICEF, Oxfam GB, Save the Children UK and the World Bank. 8 Including UNICEF, UNESCO, Save the Children UK, Oxfam GB and Plan International. 47 FOREST SECTOR SUPPORT PARTNERSHIP (FSSP) 9 The Forest Sector Support Partnership is a broad framework for collaboration between the Government of Vietnam and now 25 international development partners working in the forestry sector. The FSSP Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) was signed in November 2001, and runs through 2010. Thus, the FSSP has been operating now for five years, and is now halfway through its initially-agreed duration. Prior to the FSSP establishment, it was preceded by another partnership, the 5 Million Hectare Reforestation Partnership, which operated from 1998 through 2001. The FSSP MOA includes 15 basic principles of collaboration agreed amongst the partners. The FSSP MOA also included a Program Framework, which specified indicative performance standards for the broad goal, focused objective, or purpose, and specific activities under 9 Result Areas. In June 2006, the Partnership agreed that the FSSP Program Framework, with its nine Result Areas, will be replaced by the forthcoming National Forest Strategy (NFS, 2006-2020), as the key document for collaborative support and implementation by both national and international partners. The basic principles for collaboration remain unchanged, and support the same basic principles of collaboration and harmonization more recently endorsed by Government and international partners through the Hanoi Core Statement. This report has been prepared by the FSSP Coordination Office, which serves as the secretariat for the Forestry Partnership. The report provides an update on major Forest Sector Support Partnership implemented activities during the past 6 months and planned actions for 2007. The report also high- lights activities receiving support from the multi-donor Trust Fund for Forests (TFF), which is supported by several FSSP partners. Main activities implemented in the last 6 months of 2006 1. Legal framework for Forest Protection and Development In August 2006, the Prime Minister promulgated a Decision No 186/2006/QÑTg, dated 14/8/2006, on Regulation of Forest Management, which updates the old regulation No. 08/2001/QÑ-TTg, dating from 2001. The new regulation updates issues relating to forest management, which promotes more decentralization to the local level, and to decrease administrative procedures in forest protection, management, and utilization. In early November 2006, MARD issued a Circular No. 99/2006/TT-BNN, dated 06/11/2006, on guiding implementation of some articles of this Decision. In addition, In October, the Government promulgated a Decree No. 119/2006/N-CP, dated 16/10/2006, on Organization and Functions of Forest Protection, to more clearly identify the role of the forest protection force. Regarding to implementation of the Decree No.200/2004/N-CP, dated on 03/12/2004, so far 29 State Forest Enterprises Renovation and Rearrangement Projects (28 projects have been prepared by the Provincial People's Committees, and one project has been prepared by MARD) have been approved by the Prime Minister. 9 The Partnership was previously known as the "Forest Sector Support Program and Partnership, FSSP&P." As it has been agreed to replace the FSSP Program with the forthcoming National Forest Strategy, the Partnership will henceforth be known as the "Forest Sector Support Partnership, FSSP" (or more simply, the "Forestry Partnership"). 48 The FSSP and TFF are providing support to a number of important legal decrees and regulations that are to being prepared in 2005-06 by the Forest Department, Forest Protection Department, and MARD's Legal Department. The Legal Department has finalized the draft Decree for the proposed new Forest Protection and Development Fund, and the draft Decree on Principles and Methodologies of Forest Valuation. These draft decrees have been submitted to the Ministry of Justice in November 2006 for appraisal and comments. Then, MARD expects to submit the decree documents to the Prime Minister for approval in December 2006. This legal work is part of the overall efforts to develop an updated and more coherent legal framework, which is important for Vietnam's development and also for global economic integration after WTO accession. 2. Formulation of National Forestry Strategy (2006-2020) Over the past six months, MARD has finalised the new National Forest Strategy (2006-2020). Work has been ongoing since 2004, with the involvement of a 30-person inter-ministerial Strategy Team and a team of international and national consultants. Support for the strategy development has been provided by MARD, related Ministries, the FSSP CO Trust Fund, the Trust Fund for Forests (TFF), the Asian Development Bank, the World Bank, the FAO-Netherlands Partnership Programme (FNPP) and a wide range of key stakeholders. It is hoped that the National Forest Strategy can soon be approved by the Prime Minister. MARD is implementing the Government's SEDP. In addition to the economic development targets, the 5-year plans for the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, as well as for the forest sector, however, have three other major goals - promotion of environmental sustainability, improvement of rural livelihoods and poverty reduction, and improved sectoral management. In October 2006, MARD established five working groups (WGs), to develop action plans for implementation of the NFS and forest sector 5-year plans during the period 2007-2010. FSSP CO assisted these WGs in organizing meetings to draft an action plan, and to specify potential resources needed to implement this action plan. After group meetings in October 2006 and a plenary meeting in early November 2006, the draft action plans are under finalization. The initial action plan, and other supporting documentation, will provide a basis for MARD to work with international donors and other partners to mobilize resources to support implementation of the National Forest Strategy. 3. 5 Million Hectare Reforestation / 661 Programme The Five Million Hectare Reforestation Programme (5MHRP), implemented by Decision 661, is government's major forestry programme for the period 1998-2010. It is a major government programme intended contributed towards the achievement of the CPRGS. The 5MHRP aims not only to reforest Vietnam, but also to address issues of rural poverty and national socio-economic development. According to MARD reports, as of 2005, the 5MHRP has created jobs and improved income for 470,000 households, which are mainly ethnic minority people. This increased income has contributed to poverty reduction for many households living near the forest. By participating in implementation of the 5MHRP through forest plantation and protection activities, each household could earn VND 5.55 million per year, and an additional VND 463,000 per month, on average, from participation in other activities of the programme. The overall impact of 5MHRP on poverty elimination, however, has still been limited. Most households' income is still very low (mainly generated from the forest allocation contract agreement and afforestation activities). 49 MARD has prepared and submitted to the National Assembly a report on 5MHRP implementation during 1998-2005 and proposed main responsibilities and implementation solution for 2006-2010. This report will be among the topics discussed during the 10th session of the XI National Assembly in November 2006. Regarding to the 5MHRP forest protection component, MARD proposed to intensify forest allocation to households and communities, and allocation and lease of forest for organizations and individuals. It is proposed that forest protection contracts for special use and protection forests protection will henceforth be only applied in the areas where the forest is highly vulnerable, and where the local people are unable to derive economic benefits from the forest. The remaining forest areas will be protected based upon creating favorable conditions for the local people to benefit from forest, i.e., using benefit-sharing schemes rather than forest protection contracts. This change is part of Government efforts to "socialize" forestry and encourage local people to be able to manage and utilize forests sustainably. With regard to the 5MHRP afforestation component, MARD has proposed to revise some specific objectives. The proposed afforestation target for 2006-2010 is now 1,400,000 ha, of which one million ha are to be afforested, and 400,000 ha are to be zoned for regeneration, instead of the 3,172,000 ha as previously planned. The rationale for this proposed readjustment is based upon the results of the forest and forest land general inventory in 1999-2000, and the 5MHRP achievements gained from 1998 to 2005. According to the inventory, the current estimate of forest land area, 7.7 million ha, is lower than that estimated in the pre-1997 inventory, which was 9.3 million ha. Moreover, the financial resources to implement the 5MHRP are limited. The previous production afforestation target was 2.5 times higher than what was achieved during the 7 past years, so now needs to be revised to a more realistic target. Proposed revised objectives to complete implementation of the 5MHRP by 2010 are included within the forthcoming National Forest Strategy, as part of the NFS initial 5-year action plan (2006-2010). 4. Forest Sector Monitoring and Information System (FOMIS) Efforts are being undertaken to finalize an indicator set for the data base, so that it can be used to monitor implementation of the forthcoming National Forest Strategy and forest (sub-) sector 5-year plan, as well as provide information needed for Vietnam to report on its implementation of fore stry-related multilateral environmental agreements (MEAs) and processes to which Vietnam is a signatory, such as the UN Convention on Biological Diversity, the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), and the UN Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD). These efforts will be integrated into overall MARD efforts to improve monitoring and information systems. Plans are underway to gradually transfer the elements of the FOMIS system out of the FSSP CO to one or more other units within MARD. 5. Trust Fund for Forests (TFF) Vietnam's Trust Fund for Forests (TFF) is a grant facility to support pro-poor and sustainable approaches to forest management, and a transition towards a comprehensive sector-wide approach for development and cooperation in the forest sector. By pooling resources from several donors into one fund, the TFF aims to provide a more effective means for supporting key sectoral priorities. The TFF was established in June 2004. Two technical advisors have been working with the FSSP Coordination Office and relevant ministries since November 2004, to assist in developing the TFF Regulation, operational procedures for the TFF, launch operations, and build capacity to manage the fund. 50 In June 2006, the FSSP Partnership Steering Meeting (PSC) endorsed co-financing of 12,475,420 for the forthcoming ADB-assisted Forests for Livelihood Improvement in the Central Highlands (FLITCH) Project. In September and October 2006, two grant agreements were signed to support the project, Community Forestry Pilot Programme, and to co-finance the project, Preparation of Programme 1,840,000. In addition, the TFF also supported four small grants, worth a total value of 161,539. Partnership for Sustainable Forest Land Management. Total amount for these two grants is value of 4,801,501. In September 2006, appraisal commenced for another four large grant applications with a combined 6. Other Ongoing Partnership Activities for 2006 During 2006, the overall institutional structures of the FSSP Partnership and the management of the Trust Fund for Forests have been reviewed and is undergoing revision. A Major Joint Review Mission was conducted in March 2006, which recommended numerous changes. Subsequently, the FSSP CO held meetings with stakeholders to discuss institutional changes needed in the Partnership, and to prepare new Terms of Reference for the Partnership institutions, to make them more effective. Henceforth, the Partnership will hold broad Partnership Meetings, to be open to all interested stakeholders (not just international ODA partners and Government, but also domestic and foreign private sector, local associations, or other interested parties). The Partnership Steering Committee (PSC) consists of a group of international signatories of the Partnership Memorandum of Agreement, or designated Vietnamese representatives, who are committed to supporting the sector, the Partnership and 15 major partnership principles for cooperation. The Technical/ Executive Committee (TEC), which functions as the "standing committee" of the Partnership, will serve to guide the activities of the Partnership, in support of the forest sector and National Forest Strategy. The future roles of the FSSP Coordination Office (CO), and six Forestry Regional Networks have also been clarified. Efforts are also underway to develop improved and streamlined mechanisms for decision-making and management of the TFF. In the future, a TFF Board of Directors will make decisions on allocation of TFF grants. Therefore, the management of the TFF is being separated from the FSSP Partnership institutions, notably the PSC and TEC. The intention is to reorient both the Partnership and the TFF around support to strategic priorities in the forthcoming National Forest Strategy. All these activities aim to improve the communications, transparency and governance among FSSP partners, and to support forestry's contributions towards improving rural livelihoods and poverty reduction. The FSSP Partnership continues to work towards a gradual adoption of various elements of sector-wide approach (SWAP), and improved aid coordination, harmonisation, and aid effectiveness, in line with the agreements between Government and international partners as expressed in the Hanoi Core Statement of June 2005. Some Possible Success Indicators for 2007 Approved National Forest Strategy (2006-2020) under implementation The FSSP work plan will be more closely aligned with work plans of national partners, and in support of the new NFS Five working groups, or Coordination Committees, i.e., one for each of the five programmes for the National Forest Strategy, will mobilize support for implementation of the NFS action plans Greater FSSP support to decentralization of activities 51 The Forest Sector fiscal and financial study will provide forest sector inputs into MARD's Medium-Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) The Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (FLEG) study will, in collaboration with other FLEG initiatives in Vietnam, will contribute to improved forest protection Information dissemination on key sector and partnership activities will be enhanced The Trust Fund for Forests management will be revised and strengthened, and the TFF will support key forest sector strategic priorities (as identified in the National Forest Strategy, forest sector 5-year plan, and forest sector 2007 annual work plans) The Forest Sector Monitoring and Information Systems (FOMIS) will be further developed at national level, i.e., for monitoring implementation of NFS and 5-year plan, reporting on international environmental agreements, etc., and also piloted at provincial level For further information, contact the FSSP Coordination Office No. 6 Lane 42 Lieu Giai Street, Hanoi, Vietnam. Telephone: (84-4) 762 9412 Email: fssp@hn.vnn.vn Website: www.vietnamforestry.org.vn 52 ISG process: an annual update 2006 5 Key Areas for 2006-2010 Facilitation of policy dialogue Support coordination of foreign-funded programs and projects Information collation and dissemination Capacity building and management processes Monitoring and evaluation Activities done in the 12 months of 2006 Key area 1: Facilitation of policy dialogue 5. Plenary Meeting 2006 on "Vietnam's Agro-enterprises and WTO" held on 25th October 2006, participated by more than 230 representatives from MARD and Vietnam's relevant agencies, the donor community including governmental, non-governmental and international organizations, researchers and foreign investors involved in the agriculture and rural development activities in Vietnam. 6. 12th Meeting and 13th meeting of ISG Steering Board: approval of ISG performance analysis 2005, approval of annual Work plan 2006, and proposal of draft Work Plan 2007. 7. Policy themes and Policy Advisory Briefing (PAB): completing 3 PABs on FDI in agriculture and rural development, Training Need Assessment in international economic integration for agriculture and rural development, and Assessment of agro-products transaction modes. (see PABs in Appendix No. 1) 8. Thematic Ad-hoc Groups (TAGs): TAG1: on Support Int'l Agro-economic integration and policy. Three studies ongoing - Study 1: Assessment of Agro products trade exchange models - Study 2: Training Need Assessment for international and regional integration in the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development - Study 3: Performance analysis of FDI in ARD. Useful inputs provided for discussions at last Plenary Meeting 2005. Final draft of the report is completed and expecting MARD comments. TAG2 on Support to hydraulic works development, disaster control and rural water supply. - Focusing on information sharing, including new legal documents and reports uploaded on ISG website. - Support formulation of RWSS Partnership. The Partnership is now in operation in MARD. Contacts are: Rural Water Supply and Sanitation Partnership (RWSSP) 53 Ministry of Agricultural and Rural Development Room 400, Building A9, 2 Ngoc Ha, Ba Dinh, Ha Noi Tel: 04 7340229, Fax: 04 7337697 Email: ngoc.rwsspvn@gmail.com - Support NDM-Partnership in its consolidation. It is now in operation and located in MARD. TAG3 on Support to the implementation of CPRGS in agriculture and rural areas. - Support to strengthen planning capacity (logical framework, community-based planning) for local levels. - Support to integrate CPRGS objectives into MARD FYP implementation process. Review TAGs with cooperation with relevant MARD departments, partnerships, and ministries 9. Collecting sector and sub-sector roadmaps/strategies, policies, legal documents to collect and synthesize the effective sub - sector and sector strategies, policies and legal documents and define the needs of adjustment and new-formulation of strategies, policies, legal documents in the sector for period 2008-2015. 10.Supporting sector partnerships Support the joint GoV-donor Task Force in formulation of RWSS P. Documents of RWSS-P were completed and approved. Signing ceremony of the Partnership Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was held on 15 May 2006. (see further on the ISG website) ISG has been working actively with RWSS-P, and NDM-P in order to find the way to support it and cooperate in terms of information system. Discussions have been held with FSSP-S on the information system and sharing mechanism. 7. Support formulation of a five-year plan for MARD's international cooperation activities Support ICD-MARD in formulation of a FYP regarding the sector's international cooperation for 2006-2010 and annual work plan 2006. The ICD 5YP is now available and already distributed to MARD's departments. 8. Spring gathering 2006 26th Jan 2006, a New Year gathering was held with support from ISG. At this forum, MARD and donors shared results attained in the past year and looked forward to a promising year to come. More than 150 international and national representatives attended the gathering, including more than 20 ambassadors. 9. Secretarial support was provided to ICDMARD in preparation and organization of the APEC conference on Avian and Influenza Pandemics in Da Nang from 3-7 May 2006. Information on the conference was shared to ISG stakeholder via ISG Monthly Briefing - issue of May. 10. Developing International Cooperation Network TOR of the Network of the Agriculture and Rural Development sector was developed and approved by Minister in Nov. The objective of the network is to strengthen and improve the efficiency of international cooperation activities in the new context of Vietnam's becoming WTO member. 54 The Network involves the participation of all MARD's affiliated departments, institutes, universities, and colleges. Preparation activities for network performance have been conducted with related agencies. 11. Policy dialogue Platform & Regional workshop on FDI: to hold support provinces to strengthen the attraction of FDI in the ARD sector. 12. Formulating template of Meeting Results Briefings: highlighting decisions made, policy recommendations, and needed future work (see appendix 2). KEY AREA 2 - Support Coordination of Foreign - funded Programs and Projects 1. Support implementation of Hanoi Core Statement ISG Sec. staff allocated to different thematic groups (headed by MPI, and GoV's relevant agencies, with co-chairmanship of donors in each group). ISG supported ICDMARD in preparation of presentations regarding activities within MARD in response to the HSC at the workshops in Hai Phong and HCMC held by MPI. ISG in coordination with MARD-Sida Cooperation program (MSCP) held a workshop on Swap where HCS-related issues were disseminated to MARD units (3 May) ISG will develop an action plan to implement HCS as part of the dissemination and awareness increasing process in MARD. 2. Facilitating MARD, donors, and FDI representatives in developing a more comprehensive Agriculture &Rural Development Program. 3. Extending ISG Trust Fund Prime Minister issued decision No. 2153/TTg-QHQT dated 30 Dec 2005 to extend the operation of ISG Trust Fund until 2010. Counterpart fund for ISG is approved. Funds are now available for some activities. A new Framework Arrangement to fund ISG activities for 2007-2010 is formulated and planned to be signed in Dec.2006. 4. Supporting implementation of Sector-Wide program approach in MARD (ICD and depart- ments) Coordinating with MSCP to facilitate the implementation of SWAP capacity building in MARD 5. Supporting the coordination of international assistance in controlling bird-flu ISG Secretariat was granted with the Certificate of Merit issued in decision No. 287/QD/BNN- VP dated 24 January 2006 by MARD Minister for its efforts and effective contributions to the successful control of the bird flu for the years 2004 and 2005. At request by ICDMARD, ISG would provide support to the AI Partnership recently signed among MARD and donors on 1st Nov. 2006 in Hanoi KEY AREA 3- Information Collation and Dissemination 1. Information System (MIS), publications ISG Newsletters (quarterly): 55 ISG Monthly Briefings (monthly) ISG Website (regularly updated, weekly and at request) MARD ODA database (regularly updated with information of new projects) Training on information system Integrated database (ODA, FDI, legal documents, MARD organization and structure , consul- tancy resources ) expected to be completed by early Jan. 2007. Video clip introducing sector achievements with contribution from int'l activities completed in Dec. 2006. In cooperation with PAR in MARD project to produce brochure published and disseminated in Dec. 2006. KEY AREA 4- Capacity Building and Management Processes 1. Training course for the staffs of ICD, ISG and other departments IT training for ICD officers on net working and web-based database based on the surveyed training needs (16-19 Nov. 2006) IT training for Lan-management staff of ISG: provided regularly and at request. Training to improve skills for officers involving in international cooperation activities and International Cooperation Network 2. Human resource development for MARD and ISG Secretariat Job profiles for every position in ISG Secretariat revised and updated with competences required for each position Staff performance assessment policy is formulated Personal career development plan to fill the gap between the required competences and the existing ones 3. Formal process for ISG work plan formulation, approval and review (appendix 3) KEY AREA 5- Monitoring and Evaluation 1. Review of M&E in MARD; Supporting the development of and effective M&E system for MARD of the effectiveness of ODA utilization in conjunction with ongoing work in the VAMESP II - MPI . In coordination with MSCP to develop the framework for strengthening M& E capacity in MARD. 2. ISG Annual performance analysis 2005 (+ financial statement) and ISG annual WP 2006 (+ esti- mated budget) completed and approved. 3. Auditing ISG finance for period 2004-2005, and period of 2006-2010 completed. Results were reported to ISG Core donors and approved. 56 Appendix 1: 3 PABs Policy Advisory Briefing (PAB) No. 1 Attracting FDI in agriculture and rural development- status and solutions for improvement Authors: Tran Hao Hung Date: 10/2006 Background During the past time, foreign investment in agriculture and rural development has been still limited, not equal to the potentials as well as the advantages of Vietnam and seemed to be decreased. In addition, the efficiency of FDI projects in this field is lower than that of other fields. Thus, this report is aimed to assess the status of foreign investment in agriculture and rural development, and to recommend measures to improve the competitiveness and efficiency of attracting and using foreign investment in this sector. Method of study - Analysing, synthetizing information, documents, official pubicized reports relating to the study by Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD), Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI), and other international organizations - Getting comments from localities, enterprises through survey questionares and organizing a site investigation to have a direct exchange with them to collect information relating to the Study. - Organizing workshops, meetings for representatives of ministries, sectors, localities, enterprises and experienced experts to exchange directly among them. Scope of study - Policies to attract foreign investment in agriculture & rural development, related international commitments, and experiences of some regional countries (ASEAN members, China) - Status of FDI in Agriculture and Rural Development - Viewpoints, objectives, requirements, orientation and major measures to improve efficiency of attracting FDI in this field. The main study results A. Status of FDI in Agro- Forestry - Rural areas The main achievements of FDI in Agro-forestry - Rural areas as follows: - Firstly, FDI projects in this field have contributed to the supplementation of capital source for investment in its development and increasing the revenue source for the State budget. 57 - Secondly, the projects' activities have initiatively implemented the guideline of agro-forestry and rural areas economic structure transition, contributing to the diversification of products, improving the value of exported agricultural goods and acquiring new technologies. - Thirdly, it has created more new employments, increased income for local inhabitants and improve socio- economic life of many agricultural and rural areas B. Shortcomings of FDI in Agro- Forestry & Rural areas: - Low proportion of FDI in this field, just about 7% and continuously decreased since 1988. - FDI in this field has not fully promoted the country's potentials. - Unbalanced distribution among different localities. - Lack of diversity of foreign partners. Following are factors that considerably restrict FDI in both quality and quantity in this field: - Agro-forestry production in general and attracting FDI in this field suffer from more risks than other fields due to the impacts of weather, climate, weakness of infrastructure, land and human resources. - Vietnam's agriculture is still in severe characters of small production, self-supply, scattered investment and lack of specialization. - Unclear strategy and orientation of attracting FDI in this field. - Laws, mechanism and policies of FDI in this field are not appropriate or attractive to foreign investors. - FDI promotion and mobilization activities are not effective. C. Objective, viewpoint and orientation in attracting FDI in Agro-forestry and Rural areas Objective: Effective attracting and using FDI is the important solution for agriculture and rural economic structure transition towards the orientation of industrialization and modernization. Orientation of attracting foreign investment in agriculture and rural development: - Ensuring to comply with the planning and economic structure of sector, region, and the planning of material areas. - Saving and improving the efficiency of land using. - Using the local material source effectively and creating more jobs for farmers. - High feasibility especially of project sites, consumption markets, material supply sources. - Combining big-scale projects which affect significantly the economy in general and agriculture sector in particular with medium-scale projects in difficult socio-economic to ensure the regional and sector economic structure. - Subsectors / products need to attract foreign investment: o Cultivation and agricultural products processing o Livestock and livestock products processing o Forest planting and wood processing 58 Conclusion and recommendations Through the Study, the following options of policy groups are given to improve the efficiency of attracting FDI in the sector. - The first option: Improve the efficiency and quality of making development planning and plan of each subsector/product based on the linkage with objectives, tasks, and development measures sated in the Plan of agriculture and rural development period 2006-2010 as well as in the Strategy of attracting and using FDI by 2010 and in following years. Localities and subsectors, based on these plannings, formulate the list of prioritized projects calling for FDI with detail information of objectives, project sites, capacity and Vietnamese counterparts to organize investment campaign programs. - The second option: Completing mechanism, policies of attracting FDI, including: Preferential and investment supporting policies ; Policies of capital and investment credit market development ; Market and trading policies; Land policies ; Policies of material sources development ; Policies of agriculture and rural infrastructure Policies of human resources development - The third option : Strengthening, improving the efficiency of FDI promtion and attraction activities based on the following orientation : Supporting, facilitating the implimentation of lisence-granted FDI projects for effectiveness are considered to be the best measure to formulate the picture of attractiveness and competitiveness of FDI in Vietnam's agricutlure and rural development and increase the awareness of foreign investors about it. Detail plans and campaign programs of attracting investment in the country and from outside should be developed quickly, focusing on key subsectors/projects and counterparts. Finance for investment promotion activities should be allocated sufficiently as one separate item included in the annual budget of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development ; Fund of investment promotion in the sector is formulated based on the allocation by the State budget in combination with the contribution of enterprises, and other organizations ; Studing investment potentials from other countries/regions in this sector should be conducted to make appropriate policies and mechanisms. Documents on FDI probagation in general and FDI in agro-forestry in particular should be improved to create initial attraction for foreign investors. These solutions should be implemented regularly and continously and included in the common agriculture and rural development policy. However, in the short coming time, it's necessary to conduct the following next steps: - Reviewing and completing planning of each subsector/product - Completing the list and briefing of FDI proposals (attached Annex 1) 59 - Allocating finance for investment promotion activities; - Studying the investment potentials of other counntries/regions. - Organizing investment campainges in foreign countries; - Preparing documents, publications of investment probagation in agriculture and rural development. Reference 1. Draft report on agriculture and rural development plan period 2006- 2010 by MPI in Jan. 2005. 2. Reports on FDI in cultivation, livestock, agro-forestry processing subsectors by MPI in July 2005. 3. Draft strategy to attract FDI by 2010 and vision by 2020 by MPI in Nov. 2004 4. Proposal of strengthening and improving the efficiency of FDI promotion period 2001-2005 by MPD - 2001. 5. Drafted 5-year plan of agriculture and rural development period 2006-2010 by MARD, Feb. 2005. 6. Reports on plans of cultivation, livestock, agro-processing by MARD, 2004. 7. Creating employments through FDI by Bui Anh Tuan, 2000 8. Foreign Investment Department, Vietnam Economic Review, Foreign Investment yearbook, Information - Culture Publisher, Hanoi, 2004. 9. Mobilizing and using resources in rural economic development by Chu Tien Quang, Hanoi 2005. 10.Contribution to sustainable agriculture and rural development by Nguyen Xuan Thao, Hanoi March 2005. 11.Vision and Associates, Nghieân cöùu ngaønh - Xuùc tieán ñaàu tö nöôùc ngoaøi ôû Vieät Nam, Haø Noäi, thaùng 4/2003 12.APEC Secretariat, APEC investment Guide, Singapore, 2001. 13.ASEAN Secretariat, ASEAN investment report 2000, Jakartar, March 2001. 14.ASEAN Secretariat, Compendium of investment policy and measures in ASEAN countries, Jakartar, December 1998. 15.Ministry of commerce, the People's Republic of China, Foreign Market Access: 2005. 16.The Investment Division, OECD, Trends and Recent development in foreign direct invest- ment, June 2005. 17.http//www.economist/countries 18.http//www.mofcom.com 19.http//www.moftec.com 60 Policy Advisory Briefing (PAB) No. 2 Training Need Assessment in international economic integration for agriculture and rural development Authors: International cooperation Department, MARD Date: 10/2006 Rationale To prepare human resources for realizing the action plan of the Government concerning internation- al economic integration, The Government issued the Decision No 137/2003/QD-TTg dated July 11 2003 approving the plan to foster and train the human resources as the preparation for international economic integration in the period 2003-1010. This is the ground for Ministries and Agencies to deveope the human resources training plan to prepare for integration of their own. Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development is taking initiatives to formulate the action plan of its own for international economic integration in order to realize the state's policies as well as to gain the active position in integration aiming at taking maximum advantages as well as being well prepared to addressing challenges brought to the agriculture and rural development in the age of international integration. In order to have the foundation to develop the human resources training plan for the agriculture sector, MARD conducted a survey and Training Need Assessment for international economic integration of the sector with the objectives set as (i) Assessing the present situation of economic integration train- ing for agriculture and rural development sector; (ii) proposing solutions to develop a raining plan comprehensive in contents and methods in economic integration for sector's targeted groups. Methodology This is the Training Need Assessment for international economic integration, so as the information gathered should be primary data collected from numbers of sources, different target groups within the sector. Data collections include face-to-face interviews driven by standardized questionnaire forms, workshop group discussions with the participation of different target groups. The questionnaire forms were designed in two types: (1) form for organization use, designed to collect integration training need information of the organizations provided by their leaders basing on the number of staffs and assessment of their organization (2) Individual used form designed to collect relevant information on personal basis. Scope of the study This study focused on primarily assessing the training programs and their contents relating to international economic integration that have been provided to staffs. This study is targeted to : State management, production forces and public services forces, including some policy research institues and related training schools involving in agricuture, irrigation and rural industries. Objectives of the study Overall objective: Making a foundation for developing a comprehensive capacity building program 61 in international economic integration for the whole sector at national level. Specific objectives focuss on: - Assessing the training needs in international economic integration for agriculture and rural development sector; - Proposing solutions to formulate training program comprehensive in either the contents and the training methodology in economic integration for the sector's target group. Outcomes of the assessment Through the economic integration training need survey, it is found that over 65% of the state management officials, staffs in public service sector, training sector and production sector have not understood what integration is. The rate of understanding in production sector is higher than in others. In production sector, staffs who work in state-owned enterprises have better understanding in economic integration than those who work in private businesses. The reasons for ignorance found as lack of training, training courses delivered were not good, the knowledge about international economic integration is so much and so complicated, few staffs suppose that their field of work do not really have a connection to training. In general, it is found that the majority of surveyed sectors all suppose the key reason lead to the fact that a large part of the human resources having not understood or known about economic integration is the shortage of training. The rate of staffs participating in training courses in integration accounts for only 30% of the persons asked, the rest 70 have never joined any course in economic integration. Some courses provided so far covered topics such as introduction about regional and international economic cooperation fora like ASEAN, APEC, WTO, some free-trade Agreements..., globalization; courses for technical staffs such as GAP, GMP, GHP, STMQ, trade promotion, negotiation skills, handling conflicts. Most of training courses on integration was held in the period from the year 2000 to date. They were mainly short training courses commonly under the form of lecturing, methodology of those were still monotonous, not diverse. Initially the courses provided have contributed to supplementing knowledge about integration to participants; however there remain numbers of challenges to trainees in those courses such as foreign languages skills, complicated contents, unpractical lectures, not relevant attendees, organization activities not satisfactory. Conclusion Solutions and recomendations 1. Target groups : First, the integration knowledge should be disseminated to the management level at all sectors, secondly to officials of state management sector and public services sector, teaching staffs of MARD's schools, later on extended to other groups such as technical staffs, students...In general, no age limit should be set for participants of general integration knowledge course, but some in- dept training courses. 2. Training contents: As recommended in the interviews, the contents of training should include: - Legal Framework relating to integration process, important agreements that involve agriculture and rural development, the signed documents, international regulations and practices, the process of legislation review and development of Vietnam regarding international economic 62 integration; - Vetnam's process to join regional and international organizations. Introduction of agriculture- related Agreements within WTO and FTA that Vietnam is negotiating or has concluded the negotiation. - Knowledge on trade liberalization, globalization, international integration in the field of agri- culture, tariff barriers, technical barriers (technical specifications, Intellectual properties, ) doing business in a globalize environment; - Negotiation skills, conflicts handling mechanism in international trade organizations, BTAs, FTAs.... - Analyzing the impacts of integration, integration management, analyzing the competitiveness of Vietnamese agro-products, market survey and forecast, market tapping, distribution channels in major markets. Application of standards on clean production, processing and doing business. - Other supporting skills like IT, Foreign languages, issues relating to application of IT (E-commerce, international payment, administrative procedures, inspection system) 3. Recommendations regarding organization of classes: - Training delivery forms, methods, time should be diversified to rapidly disseminate the inte- gration knowledge sector -wide. - International Department and Organization Department are to review the organization at all sectors to classify staffs and set priority for training plans. 4. Monitoring and evaluation: In order to achieve the objectives of training courses, they must be managed effectively: Course completion assessment should be made, assessment some time after the course, impact assessment. Reference 1. MARD (2003), Increasing international integration capacity for agriculture and rural development, funded by AussAids Ha Noi 2. Institutes for agriculture and rural development strategies and policies (2005), Assessing the competitiveness of agricultural enterprise, ministry level key research project, Ha Noi 3. Ministry of Fisheries (2002), TNA in the Fisheries, Impact assessment report, Strengthening the Fisheries Administration Component, Fisheries Sector Program Support, Ha Noi. 4. Hoang Huu Cai (no date), Assessing the needs for natural resources management in Mekong Delta, Research report. 63 Policy Advisory Briefing (PAB) No. 3 Assessment of agro-products transaction modes in Viet Nam Author(s): Dr. Duong Ngoc Th and M.Sc Tran Minh Vinh, Institute for Agricultural and Rural Development Policies and Strategies Date: 2005-10 Rationale During the economic renovation and integration, facing with fluctuations and pressing issues in actual transaction modes of agro-products, the study team from the former Agricultural Economics Institute (currently the Institute for Agricultural and Rural Development Policies and Strategies) had proposed and been agreed to implement to study into "Assessment of agro-products transaction modes of in Viet Nam". The study aims to study and analyse the actual application of agro-products transaction modes, strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and risks of each agro-products transaction mode, then to propose policies and solutions for diversification of transaction modes in contributing to promotion of agro- products production and trade and better impacts on markerts. Methodology Analysis of the marketing chain and the value chain through steps in different transaction modes between farmers and related agents has been used. At the same time, the rapid participatory assessment method has also been used with participation of farmers, collectors, and sale agents, and comments from government authorities at different levels have been gathered. The study team applied SWOT analysis using software such as SPSS, Excel as supporting tools for quantitative and quality analyses. Scope of study The study team has selected and carried out surveys on 4 products groups (rice, coffee, fruit trees and sugar cane) at provinces including Tien Giang, Can Tho, Hau Giang, Dak Lak, and Bac Giang provinces and Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh cities. Total surveyed samples are 460 households who have been selling the four products groups in 2 years (2004 -2005); and 46 collectors, and sale agents. In addition, surveys at 8 agro-products wholesale markets have been also implemented. A combination of products group review and surveys has been done to focus on analysis of domestic agro-products transactions. Key results For the 4 selected products groups at surveyed provinces and cities, there are 4 prevailing transaction modes as follows: (1) Free trade through networks of small traders (collectors, traders); (2) Contracts (agreements) between enterprises and farmers; (3) Agreements between enterprises and cooperatives, teams, groups, contractors being organizations 64 or individuals as representatives of farmers; (4) Transactions at wholesale markets. Additionally, there exist other modes of transaction, for instance, some enterprises, companies and associations have set up close systems linking producers, collectors and other agents in the process of distribution of one agro-products group; farmers consign their agro-products at enterprises in receiving advance payments and partial payment modes are applied. - Free trade without any agreement is recognized with strengths. It is suitable for traditional trad- ing customs and habits of farmers so it is most frequent. However, this transaction mode also shows disadvantages. Further analysis of the marketing chain and value chain revealed that this transaction mode contains some intermediate phases that do not change physical forms of prod- ucts, do not enhance quality of products, but increase costs to ensure benefits of the intermedi- ate agents. In transaction mode, producers do not have close contact with processors and exporters. Producers and exporters cannot manage quality of products so produced products do not have good quality as consequence. - Transactions with written agreements (including direct agreements between enterprises and each household and agreements with cooperatives and farmers' groups) have various advantages, which can be generalized, as "4 stables": stable material growing areas; stable quality of products; stable customers; and then stable enterprises and their production and trade development. Nevertheless, these transaction modes also have disadvantages, for example, farmers' production size is too mall and scattered which cause difficulties for transaction of enterprises; enterprises do not pay adequate attention to investments and technical supports for farmers in order to mobilize advantages of high yields and good quality of products. - Transactions at wholesale markets are at early development stage. Some markets have well played the role of trade centers so transactions at wholesale markets show benefits. Wholesale markets are, however, only built recently, transaction activities limit at those between domestic enterprises and traders, most of them are direct delivery without secondary transactions and later delivery. Transactions are done by businesspersons whilst market trading companies (or Management Board at some places) do not take part in those transactions but they involve in providing services such as surface renting, loading and unloading, and security. Conclusion Agro-products markets in Viet Nam are in stages of positive movement and development. In order to diversify and stimulate busy and effective market activities, it is essential to pay attention to the 4 fundamentals, i.e.: (1) rehabilitation and new construction of infrastructure and information; (2) human resources training including legal education, commercial and trade trainings for relevant agents groups, professional refreshment for trade organizations and experts and intermediates; (3) strengthening advisory role of provincial Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and provincial Departments of Trade to Provincial and City People's Committees in planning and development of material growing areas, in development of professional training programmes on agro-products trade, and in providing directions relevant to agricultural extensions, etc; and (4) gradually making standardized and transparent norms, and standards (standards and norms on quality of agro-products, procedures, agreements, agro-product assessment and classification methods, etc) and a state management agency for agreement and management of agro-product quality standards should be considered for establishment. 65 Recommendations Implementing education programmes to abolish prejudices towards private traders; Given current circumstances, free trade mode has its own strengths; however, it should be focussed on large-scale products without strict requirements of high quality. In the long terms, the agreement transaction mode should be largely introduced and made predominant. In immediate terms, it is obligatory to apply this mode of transaction for export products or domestic products with high requirements of quality and food hygiene and safety. Main solutions recommended by the study team include: (1) Technical guidance and monitoring by enterprises in order to ensure quality, food hygiene and safety to meet customers' requirements; intensified investments and directions to improve yields, productivity and effectiveness then to ensure higher buying prices of materials for contracted farmers compared to other products in the markets. A section of the provincial Departments of Agriculture and Rural Development and provincial Departments of Trade should be formed to be responsible for state management of agreement and agro-product quality standards management. Improving size of agreements by different ways including expansion of production size of households and strengthening cooperation between producer's households to form "contractors", cooperative groups and teams. Intensifying transactions by agreements with cooperatives, teams, groups or contractors as representatives of farmers' groups is one of the ways to overcome constraints of small production scale and develop advantages of cooperative economy. Main measures to promote this transaction mode comprise: bring into play democracy, accountability of each members in signing contracts as well as in implementation of contracts; cooperatives, teams and groups coordinate with enterprises in providing direction, technical guidance for higher yields, better and more stable quality of products. It is recommended that the State should have supporting policies for management fees, agricultural extension costs, technical trainings, credit privileges (low interest rate and longer payment periods). Wholesale markets should be recognized as a new market form to be developed in Viet Nam. The authors suggest comprehensive solutions on planning, incentive policies to attract investments in market construction, trade involvement, diversification of activities at markets and trade centers; promotion of the role of the State in public services; selection of and refreshment trainings for transaction experts, etc. For transactions at wholesale markets in Viet Nam, two different modes can be applied. In mode 1, businesspersons take the role of purchasing and selling goods, market-trading companies improve present services (using wholesale markets in Thailand as models). In mode 2, market- trading companies involve in all transactions and services like in Australia, Japan, and China. The State should sum-up domestic practices and foreign lessons in order to introduce Mode 2. In view of the close system model, although this is a new mode but is a development trend at different countries. Therefore, the State should have supporting policies in development of trade marks, geographical origin in order to encourage subjects (enterprises, companies, associations) in developing close systems for a specific product from production, processing, packaging, transporting and distributing to end users for the ultimate purpose of economic improved effectiveness, competitiveness of products. 66 Follow-up studies recommended 1. A profound study is required to develop incentive policies aiming to increase number, expand size and scope of operation of important businessmen, sale agents together with update of market information so that farmers can have direct access to important businessmen and sale agents and narrowing scope of operation of collectors and small traders. 2. The State should sum-up practices from models in management of wholesale markets and learn lessons from other countries in order to change to Mode 2. 67 Appendix 2: Meeting Results Briefing Ref. No: MRB dd/mm/yy (Indicate date of meeting) Name of Meeting: (Theme of the meeting; or sequence of time of meetings) Objective: (meeting objectives) Chaired by: (Name and position of chairmen) Composition: (Numbers & names of organizations only; full list can be attached) Main presentations and documents: indicating names of presentations (Appropriate documents shall be available on ISG website) aaa bbb Discussion and recommendations: (policy implications) aaa bbb Key decisions: aaa bbb (Summary arguments supporting decisions or options; Meeting minutes should be made available upon request; Decisions should reflect results of the decision-making mechanism). Follow-up activities: (who doing what and timeframe) aaa bbb Circulation list: (depending on the importance of each meeting, recipients of MRB can be identified as appropriate) MARD Leadership Meeting participants ISG relevant stakeholders 68 Appendix 3: Planning process for ISG (Period 2006-2010) Background As recommended by the ISG's recent Review Team 2003-2005, a formal process for ISG work plan formulation, approval and review should be in place. According to an agreed formal process, annual revisions of ISG work plans can be carried out successfully. From the year 2006 and on, this planning process will be applied and followed by all ISG key members. This process is documented based on the way ISG has done so far, and based on the report timing indicated in the Framework Arrangement (FA). This process is an important premise, showing the consensus among the ISG Steering Board members toward ISG activities and its performance. Planning process for ISGMARD 1st Draft of Annual WP by ISG Sec.; 1st Dec-15th Jan Steering 1st round of comments; 15 Jan-25 Jan Other key Board ISG Sec. to collect comments stakeholders 2nd Draft of Annual WP by ISG Sec.; 25 Jan-10 Feb Planning Final comments Silence by ISG SB; 15 Feb-30 Feb means agreement! Final Draft of Annual WP and Approval Steering Board meeting to approve through meeting minutes signed by Chairman/Deputy ISG Sec incorporates all comments and prepares for approval in 1st half of March Implementation and Reporting During implementation, proposed Implementation changes (if any) to Annual WP and Feedbacks by ISG Sec and send via email to SB for consideration and approval SB meet to listen to reports, review WP; prepare inputs for next planning process by ISG Sec and SB; 10 Nov-30 Nov 69 LIST OF INTERNATIONAL PARTNERS Bilateral partners: Australia Denmark Netherlands Sweden Multilateral partners: Asian Development Bank UNICEF Water and Sanitation Programme World Bank International NGOs and other international partners: Bremen Overseas Research and Development Association (BORDA) Care International in Vietnam Church World Service International Development Enterprises (IDE) Plan in Vietnam SNV For further information, please contact us at: ISG Secretariat Room 209-210, A9 Building, 2 Ngoc Ha, Ha Noi Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) Tel: + 84 - 4 - 7336610 Fax: + 84 - 4 - 7336624 Email: isgmard@fpt.vn Website: http://www.isgmard.org.vn 70 RURAL WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION PARTNERSHIP (RWSSP) Partnership Note For The December 2006 Consultative Group Meeting A. Background Following Decision No. 519 - TTg - HTQT issued by the Prime Minister on 3 April 2006, the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the establishment of the RWSSP was signed on May 15 by the Minister of MARD and 14 international partners. By Decision 1423, the Minister of MARD subsequently on May 16 established the RWSSP Coordination Unit as an independent unit in MARD, associated with the International Cooperation Department. The purpose the RWSSP is to create a collaborative mechanism for improved effectiveness of resource use in RWSS through coordination and harmonization of support to GoV policies, the National Target Programme for RWSS (NTP) and other programmes. This will contribute to nation-wide application of the National RWSS Strategy and to the Partnership goal of "reducing rural poverty and improved living conditions of rural people through universal, sustained and affordable access to RWSS services". The Partnership Programme Framework for the initial 5 year period emphasize the following priority intervention areas: a) strengthening of sector planning, monitoring and institutional capacity, b) focus on sanitation, c) provincial capacities and participatory processes, d) scaling-up of innovations and e) private sector involvement. B. Progress since submission of last Partnership Note (May 2006, for MYCG) Since the signing of the MoU, efforts have been focused on establishing the RWSSP Coordination Unit, the Partnership Steering Committee, and the initial work plan, budget and operational procedures. Key achievements in this context include: The Coordination Unit moved into its new office space in MARD in August 2006 and is now fully equipped and staffed (Director (ICD); 4 contracted national staff and a temporary international advisory input). Management Guidelines have been prepared for approval by the initial PSC meeting scheduled for early December. Following issuing of letter no. 3507/QD-BNN-TCCB by the Minister of MARD on 16/11/2006 on the establishment of the RWSSP Steering Committee, 16 representatives from GoV and international partners have been nominated, of which 11 from MARD and other ministries and agencies and 5 from international partners. The nominations and PSC working regulations will be reviewed by the PSC and submitted for final approval by MARD. The Annual Work Plan for 2006-07 and the operational budget for the inception phase (Jul 06- Jun 08) have been prepared and will be submitted to the PSC for endorsement. Financing of the operational budget for the inception phase has been solicited from partners. C. Support towards implementation of the SEDP 2006 - 2010 and sectoral strategies and pro- grammes With establishment of Partnership structures and procedures being prioritized, only limited programme activities in support of the SEDP and sectoral strategies and programmes have been pur- sued during the past 6 months. However the following initiatives have been launched: M&E Technical Working Group: Following consultations with partners, ToR for the RWSSP 71 Technical M&E Working Group (TWG) have been prepared. The group will act as a forum for discussions on initiatives to strengthen alignment of M&E systems in the RWSS sector. Initially the group will review the sector performance M&E system being piloted by Cerwass and UNICEF. RWSS Sector Reference Document (Directory): UNICEF, Plan International and the VUFO-INGO WES working group with support from the Partnership have developed this doc- ument, which will be circulated shortly. Unified Sanitation Sector Strategy and Action Plan (U3SAP): The RWSSP is consulting with the GoV agencies engaged in the preparation of the sanitation strategy, the Water and Sanitation Programme (WSP) and the team responsible for preparing this process to define the consultative role to be performed by the RWSSP in the preparation of the strategy. Prioritization of sector research needs and establishment of RWSS Scientific Committee: ToR are being prepared for a consultancy which will define and support a process for collective review and prioritization of research needs in the sector and establishment of the proposed RWSS Scientific Committee. The Committee will act as a mechanism for more efficient and better coordinated implementation, dissemination and application of prioritized research initia- tives. Monthly News Brief: Three RWSSP News Briefs have been issued informing partners on progress with respect to the establishment of the Partnership as well as recent sector developments. I. Planned action in support of alignment of donor support to sectoral strategies and SEDP The draft Annual Work Plan for 2006-2007 includes 11 sector programme activities to be pursued by the RWSSP until December 2007 (subject to PSC endorsement): 1. Support to harmonization and alignment of sector M&E (refer the description of the M&E TWG above) 2. Prioritization and coordination of sector research (refer the description of the RWSSP Scientific Committee above) 3. Support to preparation of implementation guidelines for the new National Target Programme for RWSS and alignment of donor regulations to these guidelines 4. Review of the National RWSS Strategy and support to establishment of a national and strategic action planning framework for implementation of the Strategy 5. Support to preparation of a national Action Plan for Water Quality Analysis 6. Support to preparation of the Unified Sanitation Strategy and Action Plan (refer description above) 7. Coordination of preparation of a catalogue of cost-effective technical solutions for sanitation 8. Establishment of informal RWSSP expert group for promotion of approaches for sustainable, safe and student-friendly school sanitation 9. Establishment of informal RWSSP expert group for review of options for province-based planning and demand-led approaches 10. Establishment of nation-wide IEC survey and library 11. Preparation of national strategy for enhanced private sector involvement in RWSS 72 Establishment of sector-wide information management systems, including a sector web-site and regular RWSS News Briefs, will also be supported. The Partnership will furthermore support consultations among partners on key issues of broad concern for sector stakeholders, including a) clarification of institutional responsibilities and improved coordination between central level national agencies supporting RWSS, and b) broadening application of budget support mechanisms in RWSS (based on initial learning generated from the new Targeted Programme Budget Support Programme for the NTP II supported by Ausaid, Danida and the Netherlands). J. Milestones and critical issues for 2007 The PWSSP is still under establishment and needs to be further consolidated during 2007 to secure viability of Partnership structures and operations. In addition, the Partnership during its inception phase needs to demonstrate clear "value-added" as a coordination mechanism for "collaborative action" to foster understanding among partners for working "collaboratively". It is essential in this context that partners experience that the RWSSP operates efficiently. The following factors are critical for achieving the desired level of consolidation, efficiency and value-added: Partner engagement: The Partnership is a coordination mechanism; it depends on individual national and international partners to finance and implement agreed activities in a collaborative fashion. The fact that partners have engaged proactively in defining the activities included in the Annual Work Plan for 2006-07 and indicated willingness to finance activities provides a strong foundation for the Partnership's operations in 2007. Operational resources: Effective coordination requires capacity and resources to steer, coordinate and guide agreed activities and policy dialogue processes. It is a critical achievement in this context that the (relatively modest) operational budget for the 2 year inception phase has been financed. However, more than 60% of the budget is financed by a single international partner, who provides this support as part of a general effort to build the capacity of MARD to introduce and manage sector-approaches, including sub-sector partnership mechanisms. Long-term viability of RWSSP operations requires contributions from a broader range of partners, including in particular international partners with a direct stake in RWSS. Capacity to support collaborative processes: Building understanding for collaborative action among national as well as international stakeholders requires attention to "process" and grad- ual nurturing of collaborative behavior. While the RWSSP Coordination Unit, comprising 4 contracted national staff, is well positioned to provide this support, MARD acknowledges that medium-term international advisory support is required during the inception phase to build the required operational "process" capacity of the Coordination Unit. It is critical for the Partnerships ability to demonstrate its value added that support towards provision of this input is secured for 2007. Securing engagement of national RWSS sub-sector stakeholders: It was initially decided that the RWSSP during the 2-year inception phase would be embedded in the MARD International Cooperation Department, with a view to transfer the Partnership to the department within MARD holding the state management responsibility for RWSS and the RWSS-NTP at a later stage. To secure sub-sector level ownership to the RWSSP as a cooperation mechanism and sub-sector level engagement in RWSSP activities, it is critical for the RWSS to build strong operational linkages with national RWSS sector level agencies at the central as well as provin- cial levels during the coming year. 73 TRANSPORT PARTNERSHIP GROUP Dec 2006 1. Partnership Assessment 1.1. The status of the partnership group Since its establishment in July 2000, the Group has consolidated information and experience on projects and programs in the transport sector in order to encourage alignment of support and improvement of aid effectiveness. The Group is currently moving toward a forum of active discussion on sector issues and in joint policy formulation. Besides the follow-up discussion on "Road Maintenance" and "Traffic Safety" from previous meetings, the 13th transport partnership working group meeting focused on "Project Management Units (PMU) - Reform in the transport sector". 1.2. The structure of the partnership group Presently MOT and JBIC jointly chair the partnership group meetings with participants from MOT- affiliated organizations and donors involved in the sector, such as ADB, AFD, JICA, KfW and WB. The partnership group meetings are held every half a year. Besides the regular meetings, the partnership group has organized working groups on specific issues, which promote more active discussion and coordi- nation. 2. Achievement of the partnership group 2.1. The 13th Transport Partnership Group Meeting The 13th transport partnership group meeting was held on Nov 27th, 2006. The meeting focused on the three issues as follows; (i) "Road Maintenance" to discuss on a road map to establish sustainable road management system, linkage with Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF) and possible road fund, (ii) "Traffic Safety" to discuss on institutional reform to secure good planning and effective coordination among ministries/provincial governments and donors and (iii) "PMU Reform" to share understanding on the current problems in terms of ODA project management and to discuss the direction of PMU reform within a broad context of public administration reform in the transport sector. 2.2. The progress of the partnership group and support for implementation at the new SEDP Seeing the rapid increases of road asset and difficult maintenance of good quality, of such asset, the partnership members have had a series of discussion to establish sustainable and applicable road maintenance system and to secure necessary organizational arrangements and enough budgets for road maintenance. Development of road networks and associated rapid motorization also has brought about an increase in the number of traffic accidents, which is a very critical problem not only from humanitarian but also from socio-economic perspectives. Seeing this as a potential risk for the country's economic growth, the partnership members could clarify the necessary supports in the area of traffic safety in Vietnam based on the discussions in the 11th meeting. (1) Road Maintenance 74 In the 13th transport partnership group meeting, JBIC shared the results of the survey on progress of road and bridge inventory data collection and planning for appropriate maintenance in selected PDOTs and a RRMU. It is pointed out further capacity building and enforcement of appropriate data collection by PDOTs and RRMUs are necessary, and relevant data for ROSY BASE, VBMS and HDM-4 should be prioritized in the process of data collection. Along with discussions on better maintenance plan and reasonable budgetary, the partnership members reconfirmed the importance of balancing new investment and maintenance budget with MTEF, as the transport sector is selected as one of MTEF pilots commenced in 2005. The partnership group members shared the idea to examine possible support for the capacity building and set a target of complete road inventory and condition data in 2007. In addition, the members also shared importance for immediate start of budgetary planning by using HDM-4 even in pre-matured data environment toward FY 2008 and encouraging MOF's further involvement to secure budget in the framework of MTEF. VRA HDM4 Preparation of road and bridge maintenance plan UDB Database for road and bridge Inventory/condition data ROSY & VBMS Collection of road and RRMU, PDOTs RRMU Regional Road Management Unit PDOT Dept. of Transport in Provincial People's Committee (2) Traffic Safety In the 13th meeting, JBIC shared the idea on the coming project focusing on National Roads Traffic Safety Improvement in northern area and coordination with other related projects supported by JICA and WB. As it is recognized that JICA has a plan to start a project to develop the Master plan for traffic safe- 75 ty, which would be started at January 2007, the partnership group requested JICA to share the basic concept and progress of project with partnership group so that the Master-Plan is consistent with existing and future projects of traffic safety under the overall management of the NTSC. The partnership group reconfirmed the importance of the coordination among donors' support and strengthening the planning and coordination capacity of the NTSC and TSPMU including establishment of a permanent institute for traffic safety to ensure steady enforcement of traffic safety measures through other ministries and provincial governments to tackle problems in the area. (3) Institutional reform related to Project Management Units (PMUs) Recent serious discussion in the party, the National Assembly and wide media coverage related to implementation of investment projects in transport sector draws attentions to the need for institution- al reform for better public investment management including ODA management. In response to this need, JBIC has been conducting a survey focusing on mechanisms of Project Management Unit (PMU) with the purpose of reviewing policies and legal documents relating to the implementation and management of Japanese ODA loan operations in Vietnam, and proposing recommendations how to improve them within a context of recent broader public administration reform with new legal bases such as "Decree on Amending and supplementing a number of articles of Decree No. 16/2005/ND-CP on management of investment projects on the construction of works" (Decree No. 112) and "Decree on Issuance of Regulation on management and Utilization of Official Development Assistance" (Decree No. 131). JBIC shared the preliminary findings of the survey and exchange views with the partnership group members. The members confirmed necessary efforts to tackle the issues to date and commitment to strengthen state management capacity and improve efficiency and transparency in using both government and ODA funds. The transport donors expressed their initial support for the reforms outlined i.e.: the placing of investment PMUs under modal authorities to be consistent with the new investment and PMU regulations and specifically those related to VRA. However it was recognized that further discussions within MoT, government and the donor community were required. The donors also expressed their willingness to support further development of and consultations on reform. They also recognized the need to ensure continuity for current investment programmes in any transition to new institutional structures. 3. Actions for the next 12 months at mile stones for 2007 VRA will make efforts to maintain the database for road and bridge maintenance management and pay attention to strengthen linkage between maintenance planning and its budgeting to secure appropriate amount of budget. Donors keep supporting in VRA for necessary capacity building. (See appendix1: Expected road map as a set of milestones) MOT and VRA will make effort to set forward the necessary procedure to secure appropriate amount of budget for maintenance and balance between new investment and maintenance cost with MTEF under close mutual cooperation with MOF, and donors will support this effort made by MOT and VRA. MOT keeps effort to proceed administration reform in order to improve public investment management/ODA management, specifically procurement, quality control, financial management and asset management. The partnership group members will continue to share feedbacks from the PMU survey and cooperate each other to elaborate necessary actions contributing to administration reform. 76 Appendix 1: Expected road map for introduction of sustainable road maintenance system and MTEF *Rosy & HDM4 Organization in Necessary Capacity E(VN) Actions to be taken Target Date Direction Stage charge building area for VRA 1. To draft the related regulations regarding to all the selected nesces- Middle of VRA sary road data collection (especially for Rosy system) Dec,2006 To complete ROAD inventry JBIC SAPI 2006 Data collection data in Rosy system for the study (Done) 2. To issue the VRA regulation and instruct the RRMU, PDOT to conduct End of for FOAD (for VRA necessary preparation of the data collection activities nationwide with easy input manual Dec,2006 conclete budget budget planning by utilizing request) 3. To collect and input all the selected necessary road data for Rosy Middle of VRA, RRMU, HDM4 by VRA Support for data system Aug,2007 PDOT collection and input 4. To nominate pilot RRME, PDOT and let them submit O&M plan and Middle of Pilot RRMU, budget request to VRA as pilot basis Aug,2007 PDOT, VRA Trial MTEF by HDM4 (Budget 2007 request/ 5. Based on the budget allocation request from RRMU, PDOT (including To request budget allocation End of allocation by Development budget request/ pilot RRMU or PDOT), to submit the Budget request to MOT and MOF VRA request to MOT and MOF by Oct,2007 utilizing HDM4 allocation system nationwide by by utilizing HDM4 system as trial basis for FY2008 utilizing HDM4 system as system as trial HDM4 system trial basis for FY2008 basis for 6. To allocate budet provided by MOF and MOT to the RRMU and PDOT End of VRA FY2008) by utilizing HDM4 system Nov,2007 7. To review the result of FY2007 activities and develop the nationwide End of To develop the nationwide MTEF for 2009- Discussion and Preparation works for 2008 VRA budget request system. Mar,2008 budget request system 2011 by HDM4 ROAD FUND 2009 To start the activities for FOAD FUND *VBMS (Vietnam Bridge Management System) Organization in Necessary Capacity E(VN) Actions to be taken Target Date Direction Stage charge building area for VRA End of 1. To complete VBMS planning module VRA JBIC Transport sector loan (Done) Feb,2007 To complete Bridge inventry Data collection 2. To issue the VRA regulation and instruct the RRMU, PSOT to conduct End of data in VBMS system for the for Bridge (for 2006 VRA necessary preparation of the conclete budget data collection activities nationwide with easy input manual. Jun,2007 budget planning by utilizing request) HDM4 by VRA Support for data collection and input 3. To collect and input all the selected necessary bridge data for VBMS End of VRA, RRMU, system Dec,2007 PDOT 77 Appendix 2 TRANSPORT SECTOR ASSISTANCE PROJECTS IN VIETNAM TRANSPORT PARTNARSHIP GROUP PROJECT DONOR STATUS DURATION CONTACT Road Improvement ADB Completed 1993-2001 Sai Gon Port ADB Completed 1994-2001 Second Road Improvement ADB Completed 1997-2003 Third Road Improvement (including Implementation of Sector Development pvallely@adb.org ADB Completed 1998-2005 Policy - ISDP component) ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org GMS: HCMC-Phnom Penh Highway ADB Completed 1998-2005 ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org GMS: East-West Corridor ADB Ongoing 2000-2006 ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org Provincial Roads Improvement ADB Ongoing 2001-2008 ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org Central Region Transport Network ADB Ongoing 2005-2010 ldthang@adb.org ADB + jcahoon@adb.org, GMS: Ha Noi - Lao Cai Railway Upgrading France Ongoing 2006-2010 freyf@groupe-afd.org, (AFD/MoF) thanh-binh.nguyen@missioneco.org pvallely@adb.org ytanaka@adb.org GMS: Kunming-Haiphong Expressway - Phase 1 ADB Ongoing 2006-2011 ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org GMS: Southern Coastal Corridor ADB Preparation Stage 2007-2011 ldthang@adb.org Standby 2007 hjenny@adb.org pvallely@adb.org Ho Chi Minh City Metro Rail ADB Preparation Stage and Firm 2008 ldthang@adb.org hjenny@adb.org pvallely@adb.org GMS: Kunming-Haiphong Expressway - Phase 2 ADB Preparation Stage Firm 2008 ldthang@adb.org pvallely@adb.org HCMC Ring Road ADB Concept Stage Standby 2008 ldthang@adb.org May 2005 - Simon Lucas s-lucas@dfid.gov.uk Review of Rural Road Strategy DFID On going April 2006 78 Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC: Transport sector co-ordination DFID/JBIC On going November 2004 - March 2006 y-omura@jbic.go.jp (SEDP inputs and other co-ord. support) Simon Lucas: s-lucas@dfid.gov.uk Finland/ thaiduckhai@cftd-group.com Bridge Inspection and Repair Project Ongoing 2003-2006 FINNVERA Mauri.Mottonen@finnroad.fi F/S on rehabilitation of Long Bien bridge France (MoF) Completed 2004 thanh-binh.nguyen@missioneco.org F/S of tramway line on Road 32 France (MoF) Completed 2004 thanh-binh.nguyen@missioneco.org France freyf@groupe-afd.org Hanoi Pilot Metro Line Nhon-Gare (MoF/AFD/ Ongoing 2006-2010 thanh-binh.nguyen@missioneco.org FFEM) Nguyen Van Tau Vietnam Railways Project GTZ Ongoing 2001- 2006 gtzvr@hn.vnn.vn Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC National Highway No. 5 Improvement Project JBIC Completed 1996 - 2004 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC National Highway No. 1 Bridge Rehabilitation Project JBIC Completed 1996 - 2005 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Second National Highway No. 1 Bridge Rehabilitation Project JBIC Ongoing 1999 - 2006 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Third National Highway No. 1 Bridge Rehabilitation Project JBIC Ongoing 2003 - 2009 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC National Highway No. 10 Improvement Project JBIC Ongoing 1998 -2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC National Highway No. 18 Improvement Project JBIC Ongoing 1998 -2008 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Bai Chay Bridge Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2001 - 2008 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Binh Bridge Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2000 - 2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Red River (Thanh Tri) Bridge Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2000 - 2008 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Can Tho Bridge Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2001 - 2009 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC National Highway No. 1 Bypass Road Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2001 - 2009 y-omura@jbic.go.jp 79 Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Hai Van Tunnel Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 1997 - 2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Rural Development and Living Standard Improvement Project III Yasuhisa Ojima, JBIC JBIC Ongoing 1999 - 2006 (Rural Road) y-ojima@jbic.go.jp Yasuhisa Ojima, JBIC Small-Scale Pro Poor Infrastructure Development Project (Rural Road) JBIC Ongoing 2003 - 2007 y-ojima@jbic.go.jp Yasuhisa Ojima, JBIC Small-Scale Pro Poor Infrastructure Development Project (II) (Rural Road) JBIC Ongoing 2006 - 2010 y-ojima@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City Railways Bridge Rehabilitation Project JBIC Completed 1994 - 2005 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Hai Phong Port Rehabilitation Project (Phase II) JBIC Ongoing 2000 - 2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Cai Lan Port Expansion Project JBIC Ongoing 1996 - 2008 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Da Nang Port Improvement Project JBIC Ongoing 1999 - 2006 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yasuhisa Ojima, JBIC Coastal Communication System Project in Southern Vietnam JBIC Ongoing 2000 - 2007 y-ojima@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Tan Son Nhat International Airport Terminal Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2002 - 2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Sai Gon East-West Highway Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2000 - 2007 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Transport Infrastructure Development Project in Hanoi JBIC Ongoing 1999 - 2006 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Transport Sector Loan for National Road Network Improvement JBIC Ongoing 2004 - 2008 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Hanoi - Ho Chi Minh City Railway Line Bridges Safety Improvement Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC JBIC Ongoing 2004 - 2009 Project y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Cai Mep-Thi Vai International Port Construction Project JBIC Ongoing 2004 - 2012 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC New National Highway No.3 and Regional Road Network Project JBIC Ongoing 2005 - 2011 y-omura@jbic.go.jp 80 Yoshifumi Omura, JBIC Nhat Than Bridge Construction Project JBIC Under preparation 2006 - 2010 y-omura@jbic.go.jp Chiyo Haoka, JBIC Northern Vietnam National Roads Traffic Safety Improvement Project JBIC Proposed 2007-2012 c-haoka@jbic.gov.jp Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp Detailed Design Study of CAI MEP-THI VAI International Terminals JICA Ongoing 2004-2006 lethithuhang@jica.org.vn The Project on the Improvement of Port Management System in the Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA Ongoing 2005-2009 Socialist Republic of Vietnam lethithuhang@jica.org.vn Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp Traffic Safety Program JICA Completed 2004-2005 lethithuhang@jica.org.vn The Project for Traffic Safety Human Resource Development in Hanoi Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA Ongoing 2006-2009 (TRAHUD) lethithuhang@jica.org.vn The Study for Roadside Stations Master Plan in the Socialist Republic of Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA To be commenced soon 2006-2008 Vietnam lethithuhang@jica.org.vn The Comprehensive Urban Development Programme in Hanoi Capital City Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA Ongoing 2004-2006 (HAIDEP) lethithuhang@jica.org.vn The Study for Traffic Safety Master Plan in the Socialist Republic of Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA under preparation 2007-2008 Vietnam lethithuhang@jica.org.vn Hayashi.Masayuki@jica.go.jp The Project for Reconstruction of Bridges in the Central Area - Phase 2 GOJ/JICA Pending 2003-2006 lethithuhang@jica.org.vn Project for Reconstruction of Bridges in the Northern Mountenious Hayashi.Masayuki@jica.go.jp GOJ/JICA Pending 2005-2008 Provinces lethithuhang@jica.org.vn Project for strengthening training capabilities for Road Construction Kobayashi.Kenichi@jica.go.jp JICA Completed 2001-2006 Workers in Transport Technical and Professional School No.1 lethithuhang@jica.org.vn Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Feasibility Study on Urban Railway System of Hanoi KfW completed 1999-2000 office@kfwvn.com Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Supply of Modern Railway Cranes KfW Ongoing 2000-2003 office@kfwvn.com Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Workshop Programme Danang KfW Ongoing 1999 - 2005 office@kfwvn.com Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Main Line Locomotives KfW Ongoing 2001-2007 office@kfwvn.com 81 Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Hopper Suction Dredger KfW Ongoing 2000-2005 office@kfwvn.com Mr. Richter, Mr. Nguyen Van Minh Vietnam Railway Control Center KfW under preparation 2007-2010 office@kfwvn.com Shomik Mehndiratta Urban Transport Improvement Project WB Ongoing 11/1998-6/2005 smehndiratta@worldbank.org Simon Ellis Inland Waterways and Port Rehabiltation Project WB Ongoing 03/1998-04/2006 sellis1@worldbank.org Maria Margarita Nunez Mekong Transport and Flood Protection Project WB Ongoing 06/2001-06/2006 mnunez@worldbank.org William D. O. Paterson Road Network Improvement Project WB Ongoing 12/2003-9/2008 wpaterson@worldbank.org William D. O. Paterson Road Safety Project WB Ongoing 2005-2010 wpaterson@worldbank.org Shomik Mehndiratta Hanoi Urban Transport Development Project WB Under preparation 2006-2011 smehndiratta@worldbank.org Simon Ellis Mekong Transport Infrastructure Development project WB Under preparation 2006-2011 sellis1@worldbank.org Baher El-Hifnawi Northern Delta Transport Development Project WB Under preparation 2008-2012 melhifnawi@worldbank.org Baher El-Hifnawi Multi-Modal Transport Regulatory Review (PPIAF) WB Draft executive summary 5/2005-1/2006 melhifnawi@worldbank.org Shomik Mehndiratta Study on Consolidation and Development of bus System in HCMC (PPIAF) WB Completed 6/2005-1/2006 smehndiratta@worldbank.org pid1pmu18@fpt.vn Simon Lucas s-lucas@dfid.gov.uk Second Rural Transport Project WB/DFID Ongoing 01/05/2000 - 12/2005 or Phuong Thi Minh Tran ptran1@worldbank.org pmu5@hn.vnn.vn Third Rural Transport Project: WB/DFID Under preparation 2006 - 2010 Simon Lucas s-lucas@dfid.gov.uk Simon Ellis sellis1@worldbank.org RITST or Robert Petts Rural Road Surfacing Reasearch WB/DFID Ongoing 01/05/2003 - 7/2006 intech-trl@fpt.vn 82 VIET NAM URBAN FORUM 37 LE DAI HANH, HANOI Tel: 84-4-9746011; Fax: 84-4-9745991; E-mail: vnurbanforum@gmail.com REPORT OF ACTIVITIES FOR SECOND HALF OF 2006 BY VIETNAM URBAN FORUM FOR MID-TERM CG MEETING 1. Organizational arrangements On 5 June 2006, the Vietnam Urban Forum admitted the German Embassy in Vietnam as the 21st member of the Forum. The German Government, through GTZ and KfW, has provided very active support to the construction sector, particularly in the areas of waste water and solid waste management. This support includes provision of preferential investment loans in a number of provinces and technical assistance for capacity strengthening for professional agencies from the central to local levels. The involvement of the German Embassy in the Forum will be a great contribution to policy dialogues and experience sharing in the urban field in general and infrastructure in particular. 2. Major activities Over the last 6 months, the Vietnam Urban Forum focused on supporting policy making activities through 2 working groups: Group 1: Adjustments of orientations for Vietnam urban master planning until 2020. With inputs of experts from the WB, UN-HABITAT and SDC, the group has completed a detailed TOR for orienta- tions, which will serve as a basis for the next implementation steps planned for completion in June 2007. In early December 2006, the group will work with the expert team on spatial planning coming from Switzerland and financed by SDC. Group 2: Drafting a decree on waste water and urban underground facilities. The group has received support from the WB, the German Government and JBIC in terms of expertise, and successfully organized a consultative workshop in October 2006. One issue that the Forum is very interested in is the Cities Development Strategy (CDS) and its rela- tions with the current urban planning system of Vietnam as well as a series of issues on Strategic Environmental Assessment (SEA). Therefore, the Forum has also participated actively in the CDS launching conferences financed by the WB in Ha Long and Can Tho cities, and by SDC in Nam Dinh and Dong Hoi (namely the conferences in July 2006 organized by the WB, and the conferences on SEA and CDS organized in November 2006 by SDC). The Forum has designed a logo of its own (as shown above), which is expected to be approved in the upcoming meeting of the Coordination Committee. There will be also a website of the Forum, which will be located on the home page of the Ministry of Construction at the address www.moc.gov.vn. 3. Plan of activities for the first half of 2007 Continue to implement activities of the 2 working groups until relevant legal documents are completed and approved for issuance. In March 2007, Group 1 will organize workshops to collect 83 comments from the members of the Forum, when it will have prepared full contents for adjusting the orientations of urban development. During the 1st half of 2007, the CDS project financed by the WB in Ha Long and Can Tho cities will be closed. A final workshop will be organized in order to share experience on the approach and implementation of CDS in a specific city, and seek for opportunities of duplication through mainstreaming into the national overall urban development strategy. In parallel with CDS operations in the 2 cities mentioned above, there will be the stage of generalizing and sustaining positive results of CDS implementation in Nam Dinh and Dong Hoi, financed by SDC. Experience of SDC will be shared with cities which are implementing or going to implement CDS, such as Danang. Over the last 2 years, JICA has worked with Hanoi city to successfully implement the overall devel- opment program for Hanoi as the capital city of the country. This is a new approach, which is cross- sectoral and closely combines spatial planning with sectoral planning and socio-economic planning. It is expected that JICA will summarize lessons learned during the project implementation process and share them with the members of the Forum in January 2007. Under the WB's general support program to Danang, there is a component on capacity strengthening for Danang city's authorities of various levels, with the participation of international experts and national experts from the Vietnam Urban Association. The Forum will contribute through organizing and launching short-term training courses on the areas of urban sustainable planning, development and management for the staff of various levels in the city, which deserves to be the "nuclear" city of the Central Region. In early 2007, regional planning for the capital city of Hanoi will be completed and submitted to the Prime Minister. Contents of the planning will be widely disseminated among the members of the Forum so that they can comment on local and regional development programs. The Forum is planning to update basic information and news on its activities on the Forum's website located on the home page of the Ministry of Construction; and publish the Forum's quarterly newslet- ters on a regular basis (towards the target of publishing one issue after every 2 months). 4. Challenges The challenge is the lack of a full-time coordinator to collect and analyze information, as well as develop plans and link activities of the members so that the Forum can have a common voice. Presented by Pham Khanh Toan, Dr. Deputy Director, International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Construction Coordinator for Vietnam Urban Forum 84 PARTNERSHIP NOTE IN THE LEGAL SECTOR THE MATRIX ON ON-GOING DONOR-GOVERNMENT COORPERATION IN THE LEGAL SECTOR 10 (Update in October 2006) Based on inputs from various donors and Vietnamese agencies, this matrix is an update of international assistance in the legal and judicial sectors. The matrix is divided into five parts: 1. Support for implementation of the Strategy for Development and Improvement of Vietnam's Legal System to 2010, and Direction up to the year 2020 (LSDS) and co-ordination of international co-operation in the legal and judicial sectors; 2. Legislative support; 3. Institution-building and law implementation/enforcement; 4. Capacity-strengthening; and 5. Access to Justice. Your comments or information to improve and complete this matrix are highly appreciated. Information or queries should be sent to: vie02015.vn@undp.org Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Support for LSDS Implementation and Coordination of International Co-operation in the Legal and Judicial Sectors 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org 2. Mr. Jonas Lovkrona, Assistant Resident Representative, Head of Governance Strengthen the Management Capacity for the LSDS Cluster, UNDP implementation: Tel: 9421495, Email: jonas.lovkrona@undp.org Assist for establishment of a Steering Committee 3. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP and Secretariat to implement the LSDS Tel: 9421495/ext.103, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org 4. Ms. Charlotta Bredberg, First Secretary Embassy of Sweden, Sida Assist for establishment of a coordination MOJ, MPS, CPIAC, SPC, GI, VLA, Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se mechanism between Vietnamese agencies and some local Departments of Justice - 5. Ms. Le Thu Hien, Program Officer, Sida, Embassy of Sweden, Sida relevant donors, as well as databases on donor UNDP/ Sida/ Tel: 7260400 - 7260402 (direct) - 0904237337, Fax: 8232195 funded projects in the legal and judicial sectors DANIDA/Norway/Ireland Email: mrs.hien@sida.se Assist for establishment and operation of a (VIE/02/015 project - Ongoing 6. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) multi-donor facility on legal system development to project: 2003-2007) Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk implement of a number of high-priorities at central 7. Ms. Snøfrid Byrløkken Emterud, First Secretary Embassy of Norway, and local levels identified during the course of Tel: 974 2930, Fax: 9742970, Email: snofrid.emterud@mfa.no project based on LSDS and Judicial Reform 8. Ms. Ngo Huong, Development Advisor (Governance), Strategy (JRS) and specific action plans to Royal Norwegian Embassy, Hanoi implement two strategies of various agencies. Direct line: 84 4 974 2953, Fax: 84 4 974 3301, Email: nmho@mfa.no 9. Mr. Sean Hoy, Embassy of Ireland, Tel: (04)9743291, Email: sean.hoy@ireland.com 10. Ms. Nguyen Thi Minh Hai, Governance Adviser, Embassy of Ireland Tel: 974 3291 (Ext. 112), Fax: 974 3295, Email: hai.nguyen@ireland.vn 10 The matrix was consolidated by Nguyen Minh Phuong (VIE/02/015 TA to LSDS) with contributions from the group members. 85 PARTNERSHIP NOTE IN THE LEGAL SECTOR THE MATRIX ON ON-GOING DONOR-GOVERNMENT COORPERATION IN THE LEGAL SECTOR 10 (Update in October 2006) Based on inputs from various donors and Vietnamese agencies, this matrix is an update of international assistance in the legal and judicial sectors. The matrix is divided into five parts: 1. Support for implementation of the Strategy for Development and Improvement of Vietnam's Legal System to 2010, and Direction up to the year 2020 (LSDS) and co-ordination of international co-operation in the legal and judicial sectors; 2. Legislative support; 3. Institution-building and law implementation/enforcement; 4. Capacity-strengthening; and 5. Access to Justice. Your comments or information to improve and complete this matrix are highly appreciated. Information or queries should be sent to: vie02015.vn@undp.org Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Support for LSDS Implementation and Coordination of International Co-operation in the Legal and Judicial Sectors 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org 2. Mr. Jonas Lovkrona, Assistant Resident Representative, Head of Governance Strengthen the Management Capacity for the LSDS Cluster, UNDP implementation: Tel: 9421495, Email: jonas.lovkrona@undp.org Assist for establishment of a Steering Committee 3. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP and Secretariat to implement the LSDS Tel: 9421495/ext.103, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org 4. Ms. Charlotta Bredberg, First Secretary Embassy of Sweden, Sida Assist for establishment of a coordination MOJ, MPS, CPIAC, SPC, GI, VLA, Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se mechanism between Vietnamese agencies and some local Departments of Justice - 5. Ms. Le Thu Hien, Program Officer, Sida, Embassy of Sweden, Sida relevant donors, as well as databases on donor UNDP/ Sida/ Tel: 7260400 - 7260402 (direct) - 0904237337, Fax: 8232195 funded projects in the legal and judicial sectors DANIDA/Norway/Ireland Email: mrs.hien@sida.se Assist for establishment and operation of a (VIE/02/015 project - Ongoing 6. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) multi-donor facility on legal system development to project: 2003-2007) Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk implement of a number of high-priorities at central 7. Ms. Snøfrid Byrløkken Emterud, First Secretary Embassy of Norway, and local levels identified during the course of Tel: 974 2930, Fax: 9742970, Email: snofrid.emterud@mfa.no project based on LSDS and Judicial Reform 8. Ms. Ngo Huong, Development Advisor (Governance), Strategy (JRS) and specific action plans to Royal Norwegian Embassy, Hanoi implement two strategies of various agencies. Direct line: 84 4 974 2953, Fax: 84 4 974 3301, Email: nmho@mfa.no 9. Mr. Sean Hoy, Embassy of Ireland, Tel: (04)9743291, Email: sean.hoy@ireland.com 10. Ms. Nguyen Thi Minh Hai, Governance Adviser, Embassy of Ireland Tel: 974 3291 (Ext. 112), Fax: 974 3295, Email: hai.nguyen@ireland.vn 10 The matrix was consolidated by Nguyen Minh Phuong (VIE/02/015 TA to LSDS) with contributions from the group members. 86 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Legislative Support Strengthening legislative Strengthen capacity of reviewing constitutionality, legality and consistency of normative legal docu- 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager drafting process Tel: 7336722. Fax: 7340104 ments through: MOJ (VIE/02/015 project) Assist to draft NLDs to implement the two laws Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org MOJ - USAID (STAR project Law on Promulgation of Legal Normative (Ongoing project: 2002-2006) 2. Mr. Nguyen Quoc Viet, Director, Criminal & Administrative Legislation Dept., MOJ, Documents (at Central and local levels) Tel: 8438829 3. Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor STAR Project Study possibility to promulgate omnibus law an Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn uniform law on promulgation of NLDs Assist to carry out the tasks of reviewing and 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager examining LNDs in accordance with PM's Directive MOJ (VIE/02/015 project) Tel: 7336722. Fax: 7340104 No. 10/2002/CT-TTg of 19 March 2002 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org Strengthen the NA and ONA participation in the legislative process Enhance the quality of policy formulation through 1. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counsellor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) improving the working procedures of the parlia- Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk ONA - DANIDA 2. Mr. Jacob Gammelgaards, STA of the DANIDA Legal Reforms Project (JOPSO) mentary committee system Ongoing project: 01/2006-12/2009 Tel: (844) 9428910, Fax: (844) 9428911 Improve professional capacity of MPs and staff Mobile: 0919019863 members of NA Email: theruleoflaw@mail.dk Strengthen NA's international parliamentary cooperation Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy NA (Law Committee and Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca Committee for Social Affairs) - Ms. Vu Thi Yen Programme Officer, CIDA Support legislative drafting and review process CIDA (PIAP) Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca Ongoing project Mr. Michael McCabe Tel: 9331800, Email: mmccabe@piap.org.vn 1. Mr. Hoang Phuoc Hiep - Director , Department of International Law, MOJ Legislative support for Tel. 8431386/7340982 Fax 8431431 Support for impact evaluation of BTA to the implementation of BTA and MOJ - USAID (STAR Project) Email: hiephp@moj.gov.vn Vietnam's legal system WTO accession 2. Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Create a legal environment for implementation of the 36 government and state agencies BTA and accession to WTO. This involves supporting at the national level, and 10 legal reforms in almost all key economic and Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project provincial/ city governments commercial sectors, as well as advancing the Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn USAID (STAR Project) procedures and capacity of the courts to resolve commercial, IPR and investment disputes. 87 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ministry of Trade, Ministry of MUTRAP II Project Task Force Justice, Office of the National Suite A201 Ham Long Building,14-16 Ham Long Str., Hanoi Strengthen the capacity of the government of Assembly Tel: 9454314/15, Fax: 9454311, Email: mutrap@mutrap.org.vn Vietnam and Vietnamese stakeholders for managing Multilateral Trade Assistance Mrs. Tran Thi Thu Hang - Project Director WTO accession and meet their commitments and Project Vietnam II (MUTRAP II) Mr. Peter Naray - European Technical Assistance Team Leader challenges from other international and regional trade ASIE/2003/005711 Tel: 9454316, Email: peter_naray@mutrap.netnam.vn related agreements. On-going: (10/1/2005 - 30/6/2008) Mrs Vu Thi Tuan Anh - Programme Officer, EC Delegation, Hanoi MOT-EU Tel. 9341300 -Ext. 8217, Email: Anh.VU@cec.eu.int MUTRAP II Project Task Force Review available instruments of trade defence in light Suite A201 Ham Long Building,14-16 Ham Long Str., Hanoi MOT-EU (MUTRAP II) of Vietnam's WTO rights and obligations Tel. 9454314/15, Fax: 9454311, Email: mutrap@mutrap.org.vn Mrs. Tran Thi Thu Hang - Project Director 1. Mr. Pham Minh Duc, Senior Economist, WB Support for the National Assembly and Ministry of 2. Mr. Ngo Duc Manh - Director of Information Center, ONA Justice in developing a Legislative Action Plan for NA / MOJ - WB Tel: 08043590, Email: ngoducmanh@yahoo.com WTO Accession (completed) 3. Mr. Nguyen Khanh Ngoc - Deputy Director Continue to implement the previous results of Tel/ Fax: 7334302, Email: khanhngoc_n@yahoo.com Legislative Action Plan for WTO Accession MOJ/WB 4. Mr. Cao Xuan Phong, Deputy Director, Legal Comperative Law Center, Institute of (completed) Law Science, MOJ, Tel: 8430934 Develop legal and institutional framework to deal with Mr. Graham Alliband, CEG Facility Manager anti-dumping measures taken against Vietnam and MOT - CEG Facility (AusAID) Tel: 936 0290, Fax 936 0289, Email: Galliband@ceg.edu.vn against foreign products in Vietnam (completed) Assist to study on laws necessary for economic Mr. Morinaga Taro, JICA Project integration (study of various laws to be reformed in MOJ - JICA/LCP Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) 095-335-7315 (Mobile) line with WTO accession) (completed) Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn WTO accession: Facilitate the implementation of Vietnam's commitments for its WTO accession: Monitoring legislative review of initiatives undertaken Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy and adoption of legislations and/or legal normative Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca instrument to comply with WTO requirements; Ms. Vu Thi Yen, Programme Officer, CIDA MOJ - CIDA (LERAP) Building reviewing instruments to help harmonize Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca Ongoing project: 2001-2007 Mr. Isabeau Vilandré, Lawyer legislations and normative instruments to further integrate WTO and economic integration Tel: 84-4 9436695/6. MB: 0904 172 387 Fax: 84-4 943 6694, Email: lerap@fastmail.fm mechanism in national legal instruments Mr. Nguyen Khanh Ngoc, Deputy Director, International Law Dept. Ministry of Justice Building case scenarios of future impact of WTO Tel: 7334302, Email: khanhngocn@yahoo.com rules in national legislation Improving international trade dispute settlement skills 88 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors 1. Mr. Nguyen Binh, Deputy Director of Civil and Economic Legislation Dept., MOJ Tel: 8438836 MOJ/NA (Law Committee) - JICA/ 2. Mr. Morinaga Taro, JICA Project USAID (STAR Project)/ Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) 095-335-7315 (Mobile) Support for drafting of specific Project VIE.02.015 Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn Judgment Execution Code (ongoing) laws and regulations Maison du droit vietnamo-francais 3. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager VIE/02/015 (Vietnamese - French Legal House) Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org 4. Mr. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Maison du droit vietnamo-francais Tel: 8351899, 0903450535, Email: nguyen.vanbinh@maisondudroit.org Amendment of the Law on Local Election and the Law on Organization of People's Councils and ONA - UNDP Committees Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Ordinance on Procedures for Administrative Cases SPC - USAID (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn 1. Mr. Ngo Cuong, SPC Tel: 9343168 LNDs to implement the Civil Procedure Code SPC - USAID (STAR PROJECT) 2. Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Amending Law on Denunciations and settlement of GI - VIE.02.015 project Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104, denunciations Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org 1. Mr. Pham Quoc Anh, President, VLA Law on Referendum - research international experi- VLA - VIE.02.015 project 2. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project VIE/02/015 Manager ence and assessment of relevant existing Maison du droit vietnamo-francais 3. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Maison du droit vietnamo-francais Vietnamese LNDs (Vietnamese - French Legal House) Tel: 8351899 - 0903450535, Email: nguyen.vanbinh@maisondudroit.org Mr. Hoang Phuoc Hiep - Director, Department of International Law, MOJ Law on Mutual Legal Assistance MOJ - AusAID Tel: 8431386/7340982, Fax: 8431431 Email: hiephp@moj.gov.vn 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager MOFA/NA (Committee on Foreign Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Law on Conclusion, Accession and Implementation of Relations) - Project VIE/02/015 - Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org International Treaties (completed) USAID (STAR Project) 2. Mrs. Le Thi Tuyet Mai, Legal Expert, International Law and Treaties Dept., MOFA Tel: 0912373803, Fax: 1993819, Email: mailtt@mofa.gov.vn Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Support for drafting a governmental decree for UNIFEM guiding the implementation of the Law on Gender CPFC - UNIFEM Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org Equality in line with the Convention on the (in preparation) Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, CPFC Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination (CEDAW) Tel: 7334730 89 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, UNIFEM Support the harmonization of the draft law on gender Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org NA - UNIFEM equality with the CEDAW Mr. Nguyen Hoang Mai, Deputy Director, Department of Social Affairs, Office of the National Assembly Tel: 08048138 Support the awareness raising and training activities Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, on the rights of women as human rights and UNIFEM Vietnamese legislation on gender equality and the Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org NA - UNIFEM advancement of women for members of the National Ms. Nguyen Thi Ky, Director, Centre for Training Elected Representatives, Office of Assembly (NA) and other elected representatives the National Assembly within the framework of CEDAW Tel: 08046001, Email: ttbd@qh.gov.vn Laws and regulations on human trafficking, smuggling of migrants and transnational organized Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Criminal and Administrative Legislation crime in order to enable VN to ratify the UN MOJ - UNODC Department, MOJ Convention on Transnational Organized Crime and Tel: 7335117, Email: hongnc@moj.gov.vn its protocols 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Some decrees on implementing Ordinance on Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 MPS - Project VIE/02/015 Settlement of administrative regulatory violations Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org 2. Mr. Tran Dinh Nha, Director of the Legal Department, MPS. Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca Ms. Vu Thi Yen, Programme Officer, CIDA LNDs to implement Competition Law (completed) MOT - CIDA (PIAP) Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca Mr. Micheal McCabe Tel: 9331800, Email: mmccabe@piap.org.vn 1. Mr. Morinaga Taro, JICA Project Enterprise Bankruptcy Code (completed) SPC - JICA/LCP Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn 2. Mr. Ngo Cuong, SPC Tel: 9343168 1. Mrs. Nguyen Thuy Hien, Director, National Agency for Registration of Secured Transactions MOJ - JICA/LCP / Tel: 7334160 Ordinance on Secured Transactions (ongoing) MOJ - ADB 2. Mr. Morinaga Taro, JICA Project Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn 3. Mr. Shinsuke Kawazu, Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, ADB Tel: (632)632 5215, Fax: (632) 636 2501, Email: skawazu@adb.org 1. Mrs. Nguyen Thuy Hien, Director, National Agency for Registration of Secured Transactions Immovable Property Registration Law (ongoing) MOJ - JICA/LCP Tel: 7334160 Assist for draft a Decree on Secured Transaction to Maison du droit vietnamo-francais 2. Mr. Morinaga Taro, JICA Project implement civil obligations (Vietnamese - French Legal House) Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn 3. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Maison du droit vietnamo-francais, Tel: 8351899 - 0903450535, Email: nguyen.vanbinh@maisondudroit.org 90 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Mr Morinaga Taro, Legal Expert, JICA Project State Compensation Law (ongoing) MOJ - JICA/LCP Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) 095-335-7315 (Mobile) Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn Amendments of the Law on Credit Institutions SBV/ NA (CEBA) - USAID (STAR Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project (completed) PROJECT) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn New comprehensive IP Law, Technology Transfer MOST/ MCI/NA (S&T Committee) - Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project and Standardizations (completed) USAID (STAR PROJECT) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn NA (CEBA)SBV - USAID (STAR Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Law on Negotiable Instruments completed) PROJECT) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Assist for drafting, reviewing and approving the Audit Law (completed) Assist in reviewing two-year implementation of the state budget law and related legal implementation 1. Mr. Trinh Tien Dung, ARR/Programme Officer documents (such as Decree 73 on local budgeting) CEBA-UNDP-DFID-CIDA project Email: trinh.tien.dung@undp.org involving state management agencies and (VIE/02/008) 2. Mr. Nguyen Hoang Anh, National Project Manager, CEBA spending units at local level. Email: vie02008.vn@undp.org Assist in reviewing two-year implementation of the National Assembly's Ordinance on formulation, examination and decision of state budget Decrees to implement Audit Law, draft standards, State Audit - DANIDA procedures and rules and state audit 1. Mrs. Truong Thai Phuong, Deputy NPD, MOF Revised decree (to replace the old decree no. 90) MOF-UNDP - AusAID-Seco project Email: truong.thai.Phuong@mof.gov.vn managing external debt management (VIE/01/010) 2. Mr. Trinh Tien Dung, ARR/Programme Officer Email: trinh.tien.dung@undp.org Assist for study on public finance reform: MOF- France import-export taxation, income tax, value added tax Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Nga, Program Officer UNDP Personal Income Tax Law MOFI - UNDP (Project VIE.03.010) Email: nguyen.thi.thanh.nga@undp.org Assist for research for amendment of Custom laws and regulations to meet with requirement of Kyoto MOF - DHRD (Japan) Convention Assist for drafting of government regulations on Ms. Do Thi Nguyet Nga,Programm Officer, UNDP business registration and licenses to effectively CIEM- UNDP Email: do.thi.nguyet.nga@undp.org implement the Enterprise Law MPI /CIEM/UNDP Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor STAR Project Common Investment Law and Unified Enterprise Law PMRC - USAID (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn 91 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Regulations on customs valuation, classification, MOF (Customs Department) - Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project post-entry audit and border measures for IPR USAID (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn enforcement; amendment to the Customs Law 1. Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project NA (Science & Technology Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Law on Electronic Transactions (completed) Committee) - USAID (STAR 2. Mr. Shinsuke Kawazu, Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, ADB Project)/ ADB Tel: (632)632-5215, fax: (632) 636-2501 Email: skawazu@adb.org Tourism Law and LNDs to implement Tourism Law General Administration of Tourism - (completed) SNV (Netherlands) Support for drafting and finalizing a government decree on delegation of responsibilities in state MOF - UNDP management to local governments in order to assist the Decentralization of state financial management Review and improvement of a government regulation MOF - UNDP of local investment and development funds Law on compulsory purchase and requisition by MOF - UNDP providing comparative experiences Implementation of the revised decree 10 aiming at mitigating negative impact of the socialization on the MOF- UNDP poor LNDs to implement Land Law 2003 MONRE - Sida (SEMLA program) MONRE - Sida (SEMLA program)/ Law on Environment Protection (Amended) and UNDP-Poverty and Environment Mr. Dao Xuan Lai, Programme Officer, UNDP implementing LNDs Project and UNDP-Agenda Email: dao.xuan.lai@undp.org 21- VIE/01/021 Decree on Facility on Forestry Protection and MARD - TFF (Netherlands, Finland, Development and Decree on Principle and Sweden, and Switzerland) methodology to identify forestry value Mr. Nguyen Huy Quang, Vice Director, Legislation Department, Ministry of Health Email: tttrangls@yahoo.com Assist for providing input to and comments on the Ms Sarah De Hovre, Technical Officer, WHO draft law to prevent and control domestic violence, Email: dehovres@vtn.wpro.who.int MOH - WHO and for defining the role of the health sector in Ms Margaret Sheehan, Technical Officer, WHO preventing and addressing domestic violence. Email: sheehanm@vtn.wpro.who.int Mr Nguyen Phuong Nam, Technical Officer, WHO Email: namn@vtn.wpro.who.int UNDP - Poverty and Environment Mr. Dao Xuan Lai, Programme Officer, UNDP. Law on Biological Diversity Project Email: dao.xuan.lai@undp.org 92 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors MOST - JICA, KOICA, France, Law on Nuclear IAEA Decrees to implement Fishery Law (Management of fishery explotation, establishment of Facility for Ministry of Fishery - Norway restoration of fishery resources, settlement of regulatory violation in fishery) Ministry of Telecommunication - Assist for drafting of Law on Information Technology KOICA Assist for drafting of Law on protection of public healh MOH - WHO Assist for drafting of Law on grant and transplant MOH - WHO/France (Maison du Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Maison du droit vietnamo-francais tissue and organ Droit vietnamo-francais) Tel: 8351899 - 0903450535, Email: nguyen.vanbinh@maisondudroit.org 1. Mr. Nguyen Van Thanh, Director of the Institute for Inspection Research, GI Tel: 0904295999 Assist for drafting of Law on Anti-corruption and GI - UNDP, Sida 2. Mr.Luu Tien Dung, Programme Officer UNDP ratification of UN Convention on anti-corruption Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org; 3. Mr. Ngoc, Sida Assist for Consolidation of Decrees on Securities and SSC/NA (CEBA) - USAID (STAR Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Development of a new Securities Law Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn MARD - Netherlands, Finland, Support for drafting and implementing National Swizerland, Sweden and other 24 Strategy on Forestry donors Support for amending Law and LNDs to implement MARD - Trust Funds for Forestry Law on on Forest Protection and Development (TFF) and FSDP Assist to draft some legal normative documents under the framework of Public Administrative Reform MARD - GTZ (REFAS) Project Vietnam Woman's Union (VWU)- ADB (financed by the Poverty Reduction Cooperation Fund) Support for drafting of Law on Gender Equality TA No. 4453 VIE: Supporting the Preparation of the Law on Gender Equality (implementation period from 2005 to 2007) 93 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors 1. Ms. Nguyen Thanh Hoa, TA Director Tel: 971 8324, Fax: 971 3143 Vietnam Woman's Union (VWU) - 2. Ms. Le Thi Ngan Giang, Deputy Director, Law and Policy Department, VWU Support for a legal review on gender equality UNICEF (in 2004) Email: giangltng@yahoo.com, banlpcs@yahoo.com 3. Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, Project Officer for Rights Promotion Tel: 9425706, Email: vnbinh@unicef.org Ms. Le Thi Minh Chau, Project Officer Support for the Draft Law on Youth and its decree Youth Union - UNICEF Tel: 9425706, Email: vnbinh@unicef.org Mr. Chu Xuan Viet, Secretary-General, National Youth Committee 1. Mr.Pham Do Nhat Tien-Former Project Director, Assistant to Minister of Education Ministry of Education and Training, 49 Dai Co Viet Str., Hanoi Tel: 8.694794 - 8.694911 Assist for drafting of new Education Law MoET-EC 2. Ms. Nguyen Lam Giang, Programme Officer, European Commission Tel: 9341300/Ext.8269 Email: giang.nguyen@cec.eu.int UN Youth Task Force - National Support for drafting process of the Viet Nam Youth Committee on Youth of Vietnam - Law and its Guidance Decree ILO - UNICEF 1. Mr Niclas Morey, Director ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry of Commerce in Thailand. Assistance in preparing the new Intellectual Property EC-ASEAN Intellectual Property Tel: +66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677, Email: nmorey@ecap2.net Rights (IPR) legislation in Vietnam including patent, Rights Co-operation Programme 2. Mr Stephane Passeri, Administrator ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, Intellectual Property Rights trade marks, copyright, geographical indications and (ECAP II), recipient National Office Ministry of Commerce in Thailand. (IPR) legislation plant varieties and assuring TRIPs compliance. of Intellectual Property (NOIP). Tel: +66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677 Assistance relates to laws, regulations, decrees and EC Programme implemented by the Email: spasseri@ecap2.net circulars in the field of IPR. EPO and the OHMI 3. Ms Minh Thu Nguyen, Assistant ECAP II, National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP), Hanoi Tel: +84/4/557/2091, Email: tnguyen@ecap2.net 1. Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for research on child Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Legal Assessment on Child Abuse CPFC - UNICEF protection issues 2. Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, CPFC Tel: 7334730 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email:Jbereron@unicef.org Legal Review on Children Affected by HIV/AIDS MOLISA - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Tel: 9362926 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Legal Review on Trafficking M0J with UNODC and UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Department of Criminal and Administrative Legislation, MOJ Tel: 7335117 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Situation Analysis on Juvenile Justice M0J - UNICEF Ms. Duong Thanh Mai, Director, Institute of Law Research, MOJ Tel: 8231131 94 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Assessments of the Juvenile Justice Situation in Hai Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF Phong Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, CPFC Tel: 7334730 Ms. Le Hong Loan, Chief of Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: lhloan@unicef.org Situation Analysis on Children Affected by HIV/AIDS MOLISA - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Tel: 9362926 Ms. Le Hong Loan, Chief of Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: lhloan@unicef.org Situation Analysis on Children with Disabilities MOLISA - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Tel: 9362926 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Surveys in 3 Regions on Trafficking in Children and MPS - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Investigation Police on Criminal Women Matters and Social Order (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 Situation Analysis on social work to make Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org recommendations for social work in VietNam MOET - CPFC; MOET - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA including legal review Tel: 9362926 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Assessment on the Court System for Children SPC - UNICEF Mr. Ngo Cuong, Deputy Director, Institute of Judicial Science, SPC Tel: 9343168 Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, Project Officer for Rights Promotion Support for drafting of specific Support for revision of the Law on Protection, Care Tel: 9425706, Email: vnbinh@unicef.org laws, decrees; National and Education and development of its decrees and CPFC - UNICEF Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, CPFC Program of Action and circulars Tel: 7334730 glossary applicable to children and youth Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for improvement of policy and guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org MoJ - UNICEF birth registration for all children Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cuong, vice Director, Judical Administrative Department, MOJ Tel: 08048076 Provision of comments for the Draft Law on UNDP: UNAIDS; UNICEF; Ms. Luisa Brumana, Project Officer, HIV/AIDS UNIFEM; Policy Project (USAIDS) Tel: 9425706 Ms. Noala Skinner, Chief of Education Support for the Law on Education and its decrees, Tel: 9425706, Email: nkinner@unicef.org MOET - UNICEF ministerial decisions and circulars Mr. Chu Hong Thanh, Director, Department of Legislation, MOET Tel: 8691410 Support for the revision of the governmental decree Ms. Maaike Arts, Project Officer on production and supply of iodized salt for human MOH - UNICEF Tel: 9425706, Email: marts@unicef.org consumption Mr. Luong Ngoc Khue, Deputy Director, Therapy Department, MOET 95 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Maaike Arts, Project Officer Support for the revision of the governmental decree Tel: 9425706, Email: marts@unicef.org MOH - UNICEF on the marketing and use of breastmilk substitutes Mr. Nguyen Huy Quang, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, MOET, Tel: 8846416 Ms. Le Hong Loan, Chief of Child Protection Support for drafting the National Strategy on Child Tel: 9425706, Email: lhloan@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF Protection 2006-2010 with a vision to 2020 Mr. Nguyen Thiet, Director, Children Department, CPFC Tel: 7474036 Ms. Le Hong Loan, Chief of Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: lhloan@unicef.org Support for drafting the National Program of Action MPS -UNICEF and other agencies Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of criminal Investigation Police (NPA) on Trafficking 2004-2010 (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 Support for drafting the National Program on Community Based for Children in Especially Ms. Le Hong Loan, Chief of Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: lhloan@unicef.org Difficult Circumstances (CEDC) 2005-2010 MOLISA - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Support for drafting specific guidelines on community Tel: 9362926 based care for CEDC, including social houses Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Support for drafting the Glossary on Juvenile Justice MOJ and UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Department of Criminal and Administrative Legislation, MOJ Tel: 7335117 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for drafting the Lexicon on child abuse CPFC - UNICEF Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Deputy Director, Department of Legislation, CPFC, Tel: 7334730 Ms. Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Project Officer Tel: 9425706, Email: ntvananh@unicef.org Support for drafting the National Strategy on Family CPFC - UNICEF Mr. Le Do Ngoc, Director, Family Department, CPFC Tel: 7471569 Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Support for issuance of the code on social work MOET - UNICEF Tel: 9362926 Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan, Director, Staff Training Centre, CPFC Tel: 8437774 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Provision of comments for the Draft Law on MOLISA - UNICEF and other Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Prostitution agencies Mr. Nguyen Van Minh, Director, Deprtment of Prevention of Sopcial Evils, MOLISA, Tel: 9347317 96 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Mr. Daniel Seymour, Chief of Planning Support for the Draft on Socio Economic Tel: 9425706, Email: dseymour@unicef.org CPFC - MPI - UNICEF Development Plan Mr.Ho Minh Chien, Director, Deprtment of Labour, Cultural and Social Affairs, MPI Tel: 08044196 Ms. Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Project Officer Tel: 9425706, Email: ntvananh@unicef.org Program no. 135 Mr. Tran Van Thuat, Director, Policy Department, CEM Tel: 8230500 Plan to review the laws and policies on street Ms. Sakiko Tanaka, Project Officer Tel: 9425706, Email: tanaka@unicef.org children in order to develop a national strategy on CPFC - MOLISA - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA street children Tel: 9362926 Institutional Building Enhance the oversight function of the National Assembly strengthening parliamentary supervision knowledge and skills of Parliamentarians and staff; Strengthening parliamentary Enhancing the parliamentary public information to Ms. Charlotta Bredberg, First Secretary Embassy of Sweden, Sida ONA - Sida supervision ensure transparent, participative and democratic Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se processes; Enhancing the internal information services of the Office of Vietnam National Assembly (ONA) to support Parliamentarians. Strengthen the capacity of legislating and oversight of Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, CEDAW South East Asia Programme Manager, UNIFEM the National Assembly (NA) and local people's Tel: 7345392, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org NA - UNIFEM (in preparation) councils for promoting the rights to education and Mr. Hoang Van Binh, Deputy Director, Department of Culture, Education, Youth and culture of girl children within the framework of Children, Office of the National Assembly CEDAW Tel: 08044280, Email: vu-vanhoa@qh.gov.vn Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Strengthen the capacity of legislating and oversight of UNIFEM the the National Assembly (NA) and local people's NA - UNIFEM (in preparation) Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org councils for promoting the rights of ethnic minority Mr. Trinh Hung Thinh, Director, Department of Ethnic Minorities, Office of the women and girls within the framework of CEDAW National Assembly Tel: 08046216 Mr. Hoang Van Binh, Deputy Director, Department of Culture, Education, Youth and Support the awareness raising on the rights of ONA - UNICEF Children, Office of the National Assembly children and women as human rights for MPs Tel: 08044280, Email: vu-vanhoa@qh.gov.vn 1. Mr. Phung Van Hung, Deputy Director, Information Center, ONA Tel: 08046763 - 0903422725, Email: hungpv@qh.gov.vn Institutional Support Institutional support to the legislative and legal/ 2. Mrs. Nguyen Bich Ngoc, Senior Legal Official, International Cooperation Dept., MOJ Programme (ISP) for Vietnam judicial sectors in Vietnam pertaining to integration MOJ, ONA, SPC, SPP - EC Tel: 7333150, Email: ng_bich_ngoc@yahoo.com issues including a) policy advice and institutional 3. Mr. Nguyen Van Luat, Director Judicial Research Institute, SPC support and b) capacity building and training. 4. Mrs. Vu Thi Tuan Anh, Program Officer, EC mission Tel. 9341300-Ext. 8217, Email: Anh.VU@cec.eu.int 97 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors 1. Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for follow up the Support to MPS to follow up the Regional Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org MPS; other key agencies; UNICEF; Regional Commitments on Commitments and Plan of action on combating 2. Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police UNIAP Trafficking trafficking (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 1. Mrs. Ta Thi Minh Ly, Director, National Legal Aid Agency Support for Legal aid system Tel: 8431389 - 0903444108 2. Ms. Charlotta Bredberg, Second Secretary, Sida Improve access to justice through legal aid services Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se and strengthen NLAA and PLAC's capacity to in 3. Ms. Nguyen Thanh Giang, Senior Program Officer, SDC, MOJ - Sida, SDC, NOVB, SCS response to the legal aid needs in 63 provinces Tel: 9346627, Email: giang@sdc.net (2005-2009) 4. Nguyen Thi Hoang Yen, Officer-in-Charge, SCS, Tel: 8232393, Email: nguyenyen@scsweden.org.vn 5. Clarita Benzon, NOVIB (The Netherlands), Email: clarita.benzon@novib.nl Strengthening capacity of Vietnam's Lawyers Institutional Building for Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP Association: VLA - UNDP Vietnam Lawyer's Association Tel: 9421495, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org Institutional Capacity Building Ongoing: September 2006 - Ms. Le Thi Kim Thanh, Deputy Secretary General, Vietnam Lawyers Association (VLA) Participating in legal and judicial reform September 2009 Tel: 7763756, Email: vla@fpt.vn Legal aid and disseminiation of legal information Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Capacity building for promoting the rights of women UNIFEM as human rights for the VLA and its provincial VLA - UNIFEM Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org chapters Ms. Le Thi Kim Thanh, Deputy Secretary General, Vietnam Lawyers Association (VLA) Tel: 7763756, Email: vla@fpt.vn 1. Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for local justice Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org agencies Support training on the rights of women and children MOJ - UNICEF 2. Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Department of Criminal and as human rights for district justice officers Administrative Legislation, MOJ, Tel: 7335117 Establishement of a friendly judicial system for the Juvenile through: Strengthening national laws, 1. Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection policies and committments on Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org juvenil judicial issue, especially 2. Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Department of Criminal and Establishement of a friendly judicial system for the abused children; Administrative Legislation, MOJ Juvenile Enhancing awareness and Tel: 7335117 knowledge on friendly judicial 3. Ms. Le Thi Kim Thanh, Deputy Secretary General, Vietnam Lawyers Association (VLA) system for the juvenile of the Tel: 7763756, Email: vla@fpt.vn society, law enforcers and judicial officers; 98 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Developing rights based models to prevent, handle and control the implementation of such rights, resettlement for the juvenile offenders and establishing a court system and friendly litigation procedures for the juvenile victims/witnesses. Support in the modernisation of the National Office of Intellectual Property (NOIP) Institutional modernisation of the NOIP including: Automation Training of staff Accession to IPR databases Accession to international IPR Treaties Streamlining of procedures Improved IPR search systems 1. Mr Niclas Morey - Director ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry Completion of an IP library of Commerce in Thailand. Tel: + 66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677, Email: nmorey@ecap2.net Support in the creation of intellectual property (IPR) EC-ASEAN Intellectual Property 2. Mr Stephane Passeri, Administrator ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, curricula at universities: Rights Co-operation Programme Ministry of Commerce in Thailand. To promote the teaching of IPRs at universities in (ECAP II), recipient National Office Tel: +66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677, Email: spasseri@ecap2.net Vietnam. of Intellectual Property (NOIP) 3. Ms Minh Thu Nguyen, Assistant ECAP II, National Office of Intellectual Property Intellectual Property Rights: Geographical Indications: (NOIP), Hanoi, Vietnam To support the development of Vietnam's protection Tel: +84/4/557/2091, Email: tnguyen@ecap2 of geographical indications (GIs) with the aim of having more products registered. Intellectual Property Rights: Improvement of IPR awareness in Vietnam: To improve the awareness of IPR in Vietnam through dissemination of information by pamphlets, CDs, DVDs and films on the Internet on the importance of IPR. Capacity building and law implementation/ enforcement 99 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Improve general skill sets of MPs; 1. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) Strengthening the skills of the Improve communication with voters; Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk MPs as representatives of the Handle of claims and petition, policy analysis, ONA - DANIDA 2. Mr. Jacob Gammelgaards, STA of the DANIDA Legal Reforms Project (JOPSO) people debating and presentation skills and assessment Tel: (844) 9428910, Fax: (844) 9428911 of bills. Mobile: 0919019863, Email: theruleoflaw@mail.dk Strengthening law making and Dr Felix Schmidt, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung Support the improvement of services for the ONA (Centre for Information, law implementation capacity International P.O.Box 44, 7, Ba Huyen Thanh Quan, Hanoi, Vietnam Members of the National Assembly through Library and Research Services) - Tel: +84 4 8455108/8452632; Fax: +84 4 8452631 international and national seminars with ONA FES Email: fesvn@netnam.vn, Website: www.fes-vietnam.org Strengthen legal capacity and international practical MOFA - Francophone Community experience for government officials on laws on of Belgium national boundary identification Strengthen capacity to implement policy on land and MONRE - Sida (SEMLA program) environment including implement Land Law 2003 Strengthen law making and implementation on Vietnam Woman's Association - Gender Equality Spangenberg (USA) Strengthen knowledge on laws and practice on border determination: international experience and application to Vietnam context MOFA - Francophone community in Wallonie-Bruxelles (Belgium) Training courses and legal dissemination for legal officials, bordery military force and people in the MOFA - LASRAI II (AusAID) bordery far and remote areas of Soc Trang, Kien Giang, Tay Ninh, Ha Giang, Lao Cai, Dak Lak, and Gia Lai Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, UNIFEM Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org Support a comparative analysis of Vietnamese NA-UNIFEM (in preparation) Mr. Nguyen Chi Dung, Advisor, Centre for Training Elected Representatives, Office legislation vis-à-vis CEDAW of the National Assembly Tel: 08046003, Email: ttbd@qh.gov.vn 100 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ensure the availability of reliable and timely statistics on court performance to court staff and court users Build the independence of the court through strengthening capacity and conditions of services of 1. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) judges, people's assessors and other court staff Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk Strengthening People's Court Strengthening transparent and coherent court 2. Mr. Jacob Gammelgaards, STA of the DANIDA Legal Reforms Project (JOPSO) SPC - DANIDA system performance through dissemination of court Tel: (844) 9428910, Fax: (844) 9428911 judgements. Mobile: 0919019863, Email: theruleoflaw@mail.dk Improve the capacity of Administrative Court Improve gender equality in the court system through increased participation of and access by women in court proceedings. Improvement of the professional and practical skills of the judiciary in court proceedings: Draft a Bench book for Judges (including a Mr. Graham Alliband, CEG Facility Manager SPC - CEG Facility (AusAID) CD-rom) Tel: 936 0290, Fax: 936 0289 (completed in March 2006) Provide 20 two day seminars and some five day Email: Galliband@ceg.edu.vn Training of Trainers Training Courses for judges at local level Compile a "Judgment Writing Manual" for first and second instance judgments both in civil and criminal cases; (ongoing) Mr. Kokubu Takafumi, Legal Expert, JICA Project Provide dissemination seminars using such Tel: 04-9-426-558(Office) SPC - JICA/LCP Fax: 04-9-426-561 Judgment Writing Manual" (coming) E-mail: t-kokubu@mbp.nifty.com Submit a formal joint recommendation to the Justice Council of SPC on the development and utilization of court precedents (ongoing) Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy Tel: 734 5000, E-mail: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca Ms. Vu Thi Yen, Programme Officer, CIDA Provide judicial professional training (judges and Tel: 7345000, E-mail: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca court staff) SPC/MOJ - CIDA (JUDGE) Mr. Chu Trung Dung, Officer of Judicial Institute, SPC Support court administration and procedural reform Tel: 0904451918 Mrs. Dang Hoang Oanh, Officer, International Cooperation Department, MOJ Tel/Fax: 7340104 - 0982363696 Email: oanhdanghoang@yahoo.com Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, UNIFEM Support the review and reform of court procedures SPC - UNIFEM Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org for compliance with CEDAW (in preparation) Mr. Ngo Cuong, Deputy Director, Institute of Judicial Science, SPC Tel: 9343168 101 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Support a review of court cases (civil, criminal and marriage-family) related to children and women during 2001-2004 for sharing and exchanging of good experiences and best practices in the court system among local judges Support the publication of a handbook on the rights of women and children for judges, people's Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, Project Officer for Rights Promotion SPC - UNICEF assessors and other court officials Tel: 9425706, Email: vnbinh@unicef.org (Completed) Support training on the rights of women and Mr. Ngo Cuong, Deputy Director, Institute of Judicial Science, SPC children for district judges, people's assessors and Tel: 9343168 other court officials Support a review of prosecution activities and cases during 2001-2004 for sharing and exchanging of good experiences and best practices in the procuracy system among local prosecutors for avoiding wrongful prosecution. Develop a cadre of managers skilled in modern methods of judicial administration and prosecutorial techniques Develop an efficient and accuntable prosecution 1. Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) service through improved access to and Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk integration of IT at all levels of the institution 2. Mr. Jacob Gammelgaards, STA of the DANIDA Legal Reforms Project (JOPSO) SPP - DANIDA Develop capacity of the SPP to perform Tel: (844) 9428910, Fax: (844) 9428911 criminological research and to collect and Mobile: 0919019863, Email: theruleoflaw@mail.dk disseminate crime statistics Perform rigorous and professional supervision of and reporting on all persons deprived of liberty at all stages of judicial procedures Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, SPP - UNICEF Support the review and reform of prosecutorial proce- UNIFEM (in preparation) dures for compliance with CEDAW Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cong, Director, Department 3, SPP Tel: 8255058 Mr. Ngo Cuong, Deputy Director of the Institute for Judicial Science of Supreme People's Court Tel: 826 4307, Email: lrp_spc@netnam.vn, Ms. Bui Thi Nhan, Legal Expert Institute for Judicial Science of Supreme People's Court Support to improve capacity building of the Economic Tel: 826 4307, Email: lrp_spc@netnam.vn courts. The activities are training of judges and court SPC - DANIDA (under Business Henrik Vistisen, Counsellor, The Royal Danish Embassy, staff, a diagnostic study, and support for publishing Sector Programme Support) Tel: 8231 888, Email: hevist@um.dk court decisions. Pernille Kjaerulff, Senior Legal Adviser Email: pernillekjaerulff@yahoo.com Nguyen Mai Phuong, Component Manager Email: maiphuong_nguyen75@yahoo.com 102 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Develop and strengthen capacity for local NGOs in UNIFEM Capacity building for human Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org preparing a shadow report on CEDAW CEPEW-UNIFEM rights reporting Ms. Vuong Thi Hanh, Director, Centre for Education Promotion and Empowerment implementation of Women (CEPEW) Tel: 7526789, Email: cepew@fmail.vnn.vn Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Support the Government in inplementation and UNIFEM reporting on CEDAW, including dialogues with the Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org NCFAW-UNIFEM United Nations CEDAW Committee and to follow up Ms. Tran Thi Mai Huong, Permanent Vice-President, National Committee for the its Concluding Comments Advancement of Vietnamese Women (NCFAW) Tel: 8210068, Email: ncfaw@hn.vnn.vn Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, UNIFEM-Research Institute of UNIFEM Human Rights, Ho Chi Minh Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org Support in training master trainers on CEDAW National Political Academy Mr. Dang Dung Chi, Deputy Director, Research Institute of Human Rights, Ho Chi (in preparation) Minh National Political Academy Tel: 7912274, Email: chidd@vtic.com.vn Support training on the human rights of women, Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Vietnamese legislation on gender equality and the UNIFEM advancement of women using CEDAW as a SPC - UNIFEM Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org framework for judges, people's assessors and other Mr. Nguyen Van Thong, Director, Court Officials Training School, SPC court officials Tel: 8347133 Assist to enforce the Drug Law : strengthen the law MPS - UNODC enforcement efforts over trafficking in drugs Strengthen capacity of the police force in 1. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer UNDP implementing the Ordinance on Dealing with MPS - Project VIE.02.015 2. Mr. Tran Dinh Nha, Director, Legal Department, MPS Administrative Violations through support for law Tel: 0913202491 enforcement in dealing with administrative violations Strengthening capacity of the police force and investigation Enhance capacity for officials at investigation agencies Mr. Tran Dinh Nha, Director, Legal Department, MPS agencies in implementation of Criminal Procedure MPS - DFID Tel: 0913202491 Code (completed) Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, UNIFEM Support CEDAW training for prison managers and Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org MPS - UNIFEM probation officers Mr. Nguyen Van Ninh, Deputy Director, Department of Detention Centres, Education Establishments and Reform Schools, MPS Tel: 06943665 103 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, Project Officer for Rights Promotion Support the publication of a handbook on the rights Tel: 9425706, Emai: vnbinh@unicef.org of women and children for prison managers and MPS - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Van Ninh, Deputy Director, Department of Detention Centres, Education probation officers Establishments and Reform Schools, MPS Tel: 06943665 Mr. Tran Huu Huynh, General Director of the Legal Department, VCCI Tel: 5742022, Email: huynhth@vcci.com.vn Ms Pham Thi Thu Hang , VCCI, Support to make arbitration centers in Viet Nam more VCCI /VLA/MOJ and Vietnam Tel: 5742022, Email: hangpt@vcci.com.vn Strengthening Commercial International Arbitration Center - Henrik Vistisen, Counsellor, The Royal Danish Embassy used as instruments for resolution of commercial Arbitration DANIDA (under Business Sector Tel: 8231 888, Email: hevist@um.dk disputes Programme Support) Pernille Kjaerulff, Senior Legal Adviser Email: pernillekjaerulff@yahoo.com Nguyen Mai Phuong, Component Manager Email: maiphuong_nguyen75@yahoo.com Mr. Nguyen Khac Hieu, Deputy Director, Civil Judgement Enforcement Department, MOJ Tel: 8430929 Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy Improving capacity to enforce Strengthen capacity of enforcement of civil judge- MOJ (Civil Judgment Enforcement Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca civil judgments ment enforcement law and regulation Agency) - CIDA (LERAP Project) Mr. Isabeau Vilandré, Lawyer Tel: 84-4 9436695/6 - 0904172387, Fax: 84-4 943 6694, Email:lerap@fastmail.fm Mrs. Vu Thi Yen, Programme Officer, CIDA Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca Strengthening the rights of Vietnamese children in conflict with the law. Support for: Reduce crime rate of children offending or being victimized Decrease the number of children dealt by the for- Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection mal justice system (to avoid further stigmatization Ms. Charlotta Bredberg, Second Secretary, Sida Protection of Children and CPFC and other legal and victimization) Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se gender equality agencies - UNICEF/Sida Establish child sensitive system/procedures for Mr. Nguyen Dinh Thiet, Director, Children Department, VCPFC children (in case the child is dealt by the normal Tel: 7474036 court system) Improve prevention and reintegration/rehabilitation programmes as well as laws/policies to strengthen the rights and situation of the CICLW. Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for improvement of policy and guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org MoJ - UNICEF birth registration for all children Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cuong, vice Director, Judical Administrative Department, MOJ Tel: 08048076 VN National Assembly/ Committee Support for the development of Law of Domestic Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection on Social Affairs - UNICEF, Violence Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org UNFPO, WHO, UNAIDS 104 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for the development a guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF Community based child protection network Mr. Nguyen Dinh Thiet, Director, Children Department, VCPFC Tel: 7474036 Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org Support for the development of child protection CPFC - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Dinh Thiet, Director, Children Department, VCPFC lexicon Tel: 7474036 Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA MoLISA - UNICEF Support for issuance of the code on social work Tel: 9362926 Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan, Director, Staff Training Centre, CPFC Tel: 8437774 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Support for the finalisation of the lexicon on juvenile MoJ - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Criminal and Administrative Legislation justice Department, MOJ Tel: 7335117, Email: hongnc@moj.gov.vn Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support through assistance in drafting an inter Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org MoPS, Supreme Procuracy, agency guideline on criminal proceedings for juvenile Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police Supreme Court - UNICEF offenders and child victims (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Support for the development of National Plan of MoPS, Supreme Procuracy, Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police Action on Juvenile Justice Supreme Court - UNICEF (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Supoprt for finalisation of legal review on child CPFC - UNICEF Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org protection Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Vice Director, Legislation department, VCPFC Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for the development a guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org MOLISA - UNICEF Community based child protection network Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Tel: 9362926 105 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for development of MOU between MPS Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Vietnam and China on coordination against cross UNICEF-MPS Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police border trafficking (C14), MPS Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for development of the National mechanism Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org of recovery, repatriation and reintegration of MOLISA-UNICEF Mr Nguyen Van Minh, Director of Social Evils Prevention Department of MOLISA trafficking victims Tel: 9347317 Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for strengthening inspection system on child Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF rights and child inspection Ms. Ninh Thi Hong, Director, Inspection, VCPFC Tel: 7472778 Support for the development of guidelines to Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection strengthen functions of inspectors who deal with CPFC (Inspection Unit) and Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org monitoring and investigation of children's rights UNICEF Ms. Ninh Thi Hong, Chief Inspector, CPFC (especially the most vulnerable groups) at the national Tel: 7472778 and sub-national levels Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support MPS to follow up the Sub-Regional Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Coordinated Initiatives against Trafficking MPS; other key agencies; UNICEF; Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police (COMMIT) and National Program of Action ( NPA) (C14), MPS against trafficking in women and children 2004-2010 Tel: 7223168 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support Vietnam Women's Union in implementation Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org UNICEF, VWU of the NPA against trafficking 2004-2010 Ms. Duong Thi Xuan, Director, IEC department, VWU Tel: 9719916 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support MOLISA in implementation of the NPA Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org against trafficking 2004-2010 Mr. Nguyen Van Minh, Director of Social Evils Prevention Department of MOLISA Tel : 9347317 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for joint activities between Vietnam and Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org UNICEF, MPS, MOLISA, VWU, China against cross border trafficking in women and Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police CPFC, border guard command children (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 106 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for improvement of policy and guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org MoJ - UNICEF birth registration for all children Mr. Nguyen Quoc Cuong, vice Director, Judical Administrative Department, MOJ Tel: 08048076 VN National Assembly/ Committee Support for the development of Law of Domestic Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection on Social Affairs - UNICEF, Violence Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org UNFPO, WHO, UNAIDS Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for the development a guideline on Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF Community based child protection network Mr. Nguyen Dinh Thiet, Director, Children Department, VCPFC Tel: 7474036 Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for the development of child protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF lexicon Mr. Nguyen Dinh Thiet, Director, Children Department, VCPFC Tel: 7474036 Ms. Nguyen Thuy Hong, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: nthong@unicef.org Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Support for issuance of the code on social work MoLISA - UNICEF Tel: 9362926 Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan, Director, Staff Training Centre, CPFC Tel: 8437774 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Support for the finalisation of the lexicon on juvenile MoJ - UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Cong Hong, Deputy Director, Criminal and Administrative Legislation justice Department, MOJ Tel: 7335117, Email: hongnc@moj.gov.vn 1. Mrs. Duong Thi Thanh Mai, Director of the Institute for Law Science, MOJ Support a Legal Review of Child Participation: Tel: 8231131 MOJ (Legal Research Institute) - SCS Legal Review of Child Participation in Vietnam 2. Mr. Michael Ekstrom, Country Manager, Save the Children Sweden. Tel: 8 232393, Email: Michael@scsweden.org.vn 1. Mr. Ngo Van Don, Rector, Procuracy In-service Training School. Procuracy Professional In-service Tel: 034. 829 594 Contribute to the strengthening of the training Training School/Supreme 2. Mr. Michael Ekstrom, Country Manager, Save the Children Sweden. capacity in juvenile justice Procuracy, Justice Academy of Tel: 8 232393 Vietnam, SCS Email: Michael@scsweden.org.vn 107 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support through assistance in drafting an inter Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org MoPS, Supreme Procuracy, agency guideline on criminal proceedings for juvenile Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police Supreme Court - UNICEF offenders and child victims (C14), MPS Tel: 7223168 Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for the development of National Plan of CPFC - UNICEF Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org Action on Juvenile Justice Mr. Ha Dinh Bon, Vice Director, Legislation department, VCPFC Ms. Julie Bereron, Project Officer for Child Protection Supoprt for finalisation of legal review on child pro- Tel: 9425706, Email: Jbereron@unicef.org MOLISA - UNICEF tection Mr. Nguyen Hai Huu, Director, Department of Social Protection, MOLISA Tel: 9362926 Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for development of MOU between MPS Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Vietnam and China on coordination against cross UNICEF-MPS Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police border trafficking (C14), MPS Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for development of the National mechanism Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org of recovery, repatriation and reintegration of traffick- MOLISA-UNICEF Mr Nguyen Van Minh, Director of Social Evils Prevention Department of MOLISA ing victims Tel: 9347317 Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection Support for strengthening inspection system on child Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org CPFC - UNICEF rights and child inspection Ms. Ninh Thi Hong, Director, Inspection, VCPFC Tel: 7472778 Support for the development of guidelines to Ms. Pham Kieu Oanh, Project Officer for Child Protection strengthen functions of inspectors who deal with Tel: 9425706, Email: pkoanh@unicef.org CPFC (Inspection Unit) and monitoring and investigation of children's rights Ms. Ninh Thi Hong, Chief Inspector, CPFC UNICEF (especially the most vulnerable groups) at the national Tel: 7472778 and sub-national levels 108 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Ms. Nguyen Thi Ha, Project Officer for Child Protection Support MPS to follow up the Sub- Regional Tel: 9425706, Email: nthiha@unicef.org Coordinated Initiatives against Trafficking (COMMIT) MPS; other key agencies; UNICEF Mr. Nguyen Manh Te, Deputy Director, Deprtment of Criminal Investigation Police and National Program of Action (NPA) against (C14), MPS trafficking in women and children 2004-2010 Tel: 7223168 Support training on the rights of women and children Mr. Hoang Van Binh, Deputy Director, Department of Culture, Education, Youth and as human rights for members of local people's NA - UNICEF Children, Office of the National Assembly councils and other elected officials Tel: 08044280, Email: vu-vanhoa@qh.gov.vn Support for strengthening the capacity of Party Commissions at all levels to compile, issue, direct, Strengthening the Party's 1. Ms. Thanh Van, PO UNDP,25-29 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi monitor, organise and supervise the implementation leadership and multisectoral Tel: 942 1495, ext 150 of new directives, resolutions and policies relating to collaboration for successful CCSE-UNDP/Sida 2. Katja S Gray-HIV/AIDS Specialist the control and prevention of HIV/AIDS, with a view implementation of National UNDP, 25-29 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi HIV/AIDS strategy to creating a favourable environment for the effective Tel: 942 1495, ext.162, Email:katja.gray@undp.org implementation of solutions suggested in the National HIV/AIDS strategy. Strengthening the Leadership Role and Multisectoral Collaboration of People-elected Bodies and Government Agencies at Different Levels for the Successful Implementation of the National HIV/AIDS Strategy: Support people-elected bodies engaging in aware- Ms. Thanh Van, PO ness raising activities and possess updated knowl- UNDP,25-29 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi edge on HIV/AIDS prevention as well as on relevant National Assembly's Committee for Tel: 942 1495, ext 150 policies and legislation Social Affairs/CCIC-UNDP/ Sida Ms. Katja S Gray-HIV/AIDS Specialist UNDP,25-29 Phan Boi Chau, Hanoi Support the capacities of the National Assembly and Tel:942 1495, ext.162, Email: katja.gray@undp.org people elected bodies at different levels for development and dissemination of resolutions, policies, laws related to HIV/AIDS prevention and control. (Please note that these are just some of the outputs for the project) Support for enhanced enforcement of Intellectual Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Property Rights (IPR) by the Government enforce- MPS - USAID (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn ment officials Strengthen the capacity of the Supreme People's Implementation of Intellectual Court and local courts in enforcing IPR. Strengthen Property Rights (IPR) the awareness of and coordination within People's SPC - USAID (STAR Project) Hanoi Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Committees in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City on the and HCMC PCs - USAID (STAR Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn importance and means of IPR enforcement through Project) awareness-raising, coordination, and training workshops 109 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Strengthen the awareness of and coordination within People's Committees in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City on the importance and means of IPR enforcement Hanoi and HCMC PCs - USAID through awareness-raising, coordination, and training (STAR PROJECT) Vietnam Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor STAR Project workshops. Strengthen the capacity for officials at the Copyright Center - USAID (STAR Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn grass root level (the Vietnam Copyright Center) in Project) enforcing IPR of Vietnamese artists and authors through awareness-raising workshops Strengthen the capacity for officials at the grass root level (the Vietnam Copyright Center) in enforcing Vietnam Copyright Center - USAID Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor STAR Project IPR of Vietnamese artists and authors through (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn awareness-raising workshops Support in the enforcement of IPRs in Vietnam 1. Mr Niclas Morey - Director ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, Ministry including the possible setting up of a specialised of Commerce in Thailand. EC-ASEAN Intellectual Property IP Court: Tel: +66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677, Email: nmorey@ecap2.net Rights Co-operation Programme To improve the enforcement system of intellectual 2. Mr Stephane Passeri, Administrator ECAP II, Department of Intellectual Property, (ECAP II), recipient National Office property rights in Vietnam by eventually replacing the Ministry of Commerce in Thailand. of Intellectual Property (NOIP), many agencies involved in enforcement by a more Tel: +66/2/5474678, Fax: +66/2/5474677, Email: spasseri@ecap2.net Vietnamese Judiciary, Customs and specialised and transparent system. 3. Ms Minh Thu Nguyen, Assistant ECAP II, National Office of Intellectual Property Police (NOIP), Hanoi, Vietnam Training of judiciary, customs and police. Tel: +84/4/557/2091, Email: tnguyen@ecap2 1. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Thuy Hien, Director, Director, National Agency for Registration of Secured Transactions, MOJ MOJ (National Registration Agency Tel: 7334160 Registration of secured Support the capacity building and training for officials of Secured Transactions) - ADB 2. Mr. Shinsuke Kawazu, Counsel, Office of the General Counsel, ADB transactions of registration agencies for secured transactions (under the TA VIE/3436 on LSDS Tel: (632) 632-5215, Fax: (632) 636-2501, Email: skawazu@adb.org funded by ADB) 3. Mr. Dao Viet Dung, Governance and Public Sector Reform Officer, ADB Tel: 933 1374, ext. 125, Email: dvdung@adb.org Organise training courses on skills on investigation of violations on competition laws, abuse of market MOT (National Agency on Strenthening capacity for monopoly position Competition Management) - JICA National Agency on Study international experience on laws and MOT - FSP (Assist Vietnam for Competition Management regulations on competition management international economic integration) Disseminate laws and regulations on competition Support for strengthening capacity of local govern- 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager ment in legal dissemination to public, and conciliation Strengthening capacity for Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 at grassroots level in selected provinces o Hai Phong, officials at the grass root level MOJ - Project VIE/02/015 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org Quang Binh, Da Nang, Khanh Hoa, Tien Giang, Lam in law implementation 2. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP Dong (more provincial beneficiaries will be increased Tel: 9421495, ext.103, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org and identified in 2007) 110 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Support for strengthening legal capacity for officials in Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org the political system at grassroots level of Lang Son CPIAC - Project VIE/02/015 2. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP province Tel: 9421495, ext.103, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org 3. Mr. Nguyen Dinh Luc, Director, Legal Department, CPIAC Tel: 08045143 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 Strengthen capacity for legal officials at local levels Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org through legal needs assessment and prepare legal MOJ (Project VIE/02/015) 2. Mr. Luu Tien Dung, Program Officer, UNDP training materials Tel: 9421495, ext.103, Email: luu.tien.dung@undp.org 3. Mr. Nguyen Tat Vien, Director, Legal Dissemination Department, MOJ Tel: 8231130 Mr. Hoang Phuoc Hiep - Director , Department of International Law, MOJ Tel: 8431386 - 7340982, Fax 8431431, Email: hiephp@moj.gov.vn International economic Strengthen capacity of commercial dispute settlement Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy in WTO and study Chinese experience on legal MOJ - CIDA (LERAP) integration Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca drafting and review for WTO accession in China. Ms. Vu Thi Yen Programme Officer, CIDA Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca Strengthen capacity to implement quarantine regulations between four countries Vietnam, Laos, MARD - Newzealand Cambodia and Myanmar Strengthen capacity for enterprises and officials on Mr. Graham Alliband, CEG Facility Manager investigation and application of anti-dumping MOT - CEG Facility (AusAID) Tel: 936 0290, Fax 936 0289, Email: galliband@ceg.edu.vn measures (completed) Provide training courses for enterprises on basic knowledge on WTO requirements and integration MOT - Italy policy of Vietnam Strengthening Law training in Viet Nam: Upgrade law teachers' knowledge on teaching meth- Mr. Le Minh Tam, Rector of Hanoi Law University ods; Hanoi and HCMC Law University Legal education at law Tel: 8359653, Fax: 8359654 Train law teachers at LLM and PhD levels; and MOET - Sida universities Ms. Charlotta Bredberg First Secretary Embassy of Sweden, Sida Develop Teaching curriculum; (ongoing: 6/2005-11/2009) Tel: 7260402, Email: charlotta.bredberg@sida.se Improve project management and international relations Cooperation between Hanoi Law University and Paris II University on LL.M and PhD. degrees Hanoi Law University / MOET- 1. Mr. Le Minh Tam, Rector of Hanoi Law University training in Viet Nam and in France (Degree issued France Tel: 8359653, Fax: 8359654 by Pantheon Assas - Paris II University): (Ongoing project, from November 2. Nguyen Van Binh, Director of the Maison du droit vietnamo-francais Provide legal lecturers in French, and scholarships 1997- ) Tel: 8351899 - 0903450535, Email: nguyen.vanbinh@maisondudroit.org for the best students Produce join- curriculum 111 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Assist to formulate and implementing a two-year Judicial training bachelor course on Japanese and Vietnamese law Mr Morinaga Taro, Legal Expert, JICA Project providing a basis for research and studies on VNU - JICA/LCP Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) - 095-335-7315 (Mobile) Japanese law (ongoing - enrollment of 3rd term Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn students starting) Training on international commercial law: Distribution of Curriculum on International Commercial Law - Theory and Practice Issues Conduct training courses on international MOJ (Hanoi Law University) - commercial laws and English for trainers and USVTC Mr. Le Minh Tam, Rector of Hanoi Law University lecturers (July 2003 - July 2006) Tel: 8359653, Fax: 8359654 Establish a database on international commercial law Translate relevant documents and materials into Vietnamese and English Provide written comments, seminars and study tours to Japan to assist judicial training institutions in becoming capable of developing high-caliber human resources; developlemt of a common MOJ Mr. Kokubu Takafumi, Legal Expert, JICA Project curriculum for prospective judges, procurators and (Judicial Academy - former LPTS) - Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) lawyers; compiling 4 textbooks (civil law, civil JICA/LCP Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: t-kokubu@mbp.nifty.com procedure law, civil adjudication skills and criminal adjudication skills); (ongoing) Mr Morinaga Taro, Chief Advisor, JICA Project Provide consultation, written comments and SPP - JICA/LCP Tel: 04-9-426-558 (Office) - 095-335-7315 (Mobile) workshop to develop a comprehensive manual for Fax: 04-9-426-561, Email: tkmorinaga@fpt.vn procurators in the field of criminal investigation and criminal first instance trial. Implement dissemination workshops using the completed manual. (on going) Support for Access to Justice Dissemination of Law on tourism in order to enhance Development of national legal managment capacity in tourism area and implement Vietnam General Administration of Legal Department, General Administration of Tourism database and legal information sustainable development of tourism and poverty Tourism - UNWTO/AECI/ SNV dissemination alleviation Strengthen capacity to implement quarantine regulations between four countries Vietnam, Laos, MOH Cambodia and Myanmar Strengthen capacity for enterprises and officials on Mr. Graham Alliband, CEG Facility Manager investigation and application of anti-dumping MOT - CEG Facility (AusAID) Tel: 936 0290, Fax 936 0289, Email: galliband@ceg.edu.vn measures (completed) Provide training courses for enterprises on basic knowledge on WTO requirements and integration MOT - Italy policy of Vietnam 112 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors Support publication of court decisions (publication SPC - USAID (STAR Project) of two volumes of judicial decisions for the Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Supreme Judicial Council) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn SPC - EC Support for establishment of a website to publish judicial decisions of the Supreme People's Court Develop a Roadmap for Creating an Electronic Ms. Charlotte Laursen, Counselor Development, Embassy of Denmark (DANIDA) OOG - DANIDA/ Official Gazette to publish laws and regulations on Tel: 8231888, Email: chalau@um.dk SCOG and USAID (STAR Project) the internet Support enhanced transparency in legislative Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project ONA - USAID (STAR Project) operations of the National Assembly Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Support online business forum for publishing draft Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project regulations for comments by businesses by VCCI - USAID (STAR Project) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn development of a website operated by VCCI for publishing draft legal documents for public comment. Mr. Ngo Duc Manh, Director of Legal Information, Research and Library, ONA Support publication of reference materials on Tel: 08043838, Email: ngoducmanh@yahoo.com BTA/WTO and related legal reforms and research on ONA - STAR Project Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project economic impact of the BTA Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Raise awareness and build support for legal changes NA/SPC/ MOT/IAC/ Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project in BTA implementation and WTO accession and the MOJ and others -USAID (STAR Tel: 9349814, E mail: johnbentley@fpt.vn economic impact of the BTA. Project) Enhance capacity of MoJ's staff in accessing legal information in the National Legal Database MOJ (Legal Research Institute)- 1. Mrs. Duong Thi Thanh Mai, Director of the Institute for Law Science, MOJ Strengthen legal dissemination Sida Tel: 8231131 Develop a legal library Support for dissemination of laws and regulations on MOFA - AusAID (Project LASRAI) national boundaries 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Support for dissemination of Law on Conclusion, Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 MOFA - VIE/02/015, USAID (STAR Accession and Implementation of International Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org Project) Treaties 2. Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn Support the development of national legal database Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, and legal information and dissemination on CEDAW UNIFEM and Vietnamese law on gender equality and the Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org NCFAW-UNIFEM advancement of women in all government ministries Ms. Tran Thi Mai Huong, Permanent Vice-President, National Committee for the and organizations at all levels, including the updating Advancement of Vietnamese Women (NCFAW) of a website of the NCFAW Tel: 8210068, Email: ncfaw@hn.vnn.vn Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, National Coordinator, CEDAW South East Asia Programme, Support the legal information and dissemination on UNIFEM CEDAW and Vietnamese law on gender equality and Party Committee for Mass Tel: 7345391, Email: vungoc.binh@unifem.org the advancement of women in the Communist Party Mobilisation -UNIFEM Ms. Nguyen Thi Can, Director, Department of Mass Organisations, Party Committee system for Mass Mobilisation Tel: 08043061, Email: bichlien_thuykhue@yahoo.com 113 Vietnamese Implementing Area of subpport Key objectives, Activities Name, address, tel/fax and email of contact persons Agencies and Donors 1. Mr. Vu Ngoc Binh, Project Officer for Rights Promotion Tel: 9425706, Email: vnbinh@unicef.org Support the dissemination of CEDAW and the new Vietnam Women's Union - UNIFEM 2. Ms. Duong Thi Xuan, Director, Department of Communication, Vietnam Women's Law on Gender Equality at local levels (in preparation) Union Tel: 9719916 Support for implementation of Action Plan for Mr. John Bentley, Chief Legal Advisor, STAR Project dissemination of state management on foreign debts MOF - UNDP (Project VIE/01/010) Tel: 9349814, Email: johnbentley@fpt.vn (based on Decree 90) Provide training courses on Legal dissemination skills MARD - UNDP (project VIE/02/016) Ms. Lynne Racine, Counsellor for Development, CIDA, Canadian Embassy Support to disseminate legal information and support Tel: 734 5000, Email: lynne.racine@international.gc.ca SPC and MOJ - CIDA (JUDGE) local mediation Ms. Vu Thi Yen Programme Officer, CIDA Tel: 7345000, Email: Vu.YenThi@international.gc.ca 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager Support to strengthen capacity of conciliators at Tel: 7336722. Fax: 7340104 Conciliation at grassroots level grassroots level through development of training MOJ - Project VIE/02/015 Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org materials and manual on conciliators' skills 2. Mr. Nguyen Tat Vien, Director of Legal Dissemination Dept., MOJ Tel: 8522767 - 0912659226 Strengthen NLAA capacity to carry out legal aid, 1. Mr. Le Thanh Long, Project Manager strengthen the PLAC's capacity to carry out legal aid, Legal Aid MOJ - Project VIE/02/015 Tel: 7336722, Fax: 7340104 strengthen the capacity of mediation groups, lawyers, Email: lethanhlong250@yahoo.ca, vie02015.vn@undp.org law students to carry out legal aid. (completed) Mrs. Ta Thi Minh Ly, Director, NLAA, MOJ Support to National Legal Aid System and 10 PLACs Tel: 8431389, Fax: 7333153, Email: tathiminhly@fpt.vn MOJ- SDC (NLAA project) in Vietnam (Phase 1) (completed) Ms. Nguyen Thanh Giang, Program Officer SDC Tel:9346627, Email: giang@sdc.net - Strengthening of the Child Rights facilitators' capacity in child participation promotion and 1. Mr. Michael Esktrom, Country Manager, Save the Children Sweden. The Centre for Legal Aid and Law counselling for children of the Legal Aid Centre (LAC, Tel: 8 232393, Email: Michael@scsweden.org.vn Dissemination for Farmers/ VN Vietnam Farmers Union) 2. Mr. Vu Tien Nam, Director of the LAC Farmer Union - SCS - Integration of CRC into LAC's Law Dissemination Tel. 7345245, Email: tgpl_hnd@yahoo.com Program (according to the Order CT 26/TTg) 114 Abbreviations used in the Matrix ADB: Asian Development Bank AECI: Agencia Española de Cooperacion Internaciónal (Spanish International Cooperation Agency) AusAID: Agency for International Development of Australia CEDAW: Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination CEG Facility: Vietnam - Australia Capacity Building for Effective Governance Facility CEBA: Committee on Economy and Budget (of the National Assembly) CIEM: Central Institute for Economic Management (Ministry of Planning and Investment) CIDA: Canadian International Development Agency CPFC: Committee for Population, Family and Children CPIAC: International Affairs Committee of the Central Communist Party DANIDA: Danish International Development Agency DFID: United Kingdom Department for International Development EC: European Commission ECAP II: EC-ASEAN Intellectual Property Rights Co-operation Programme EPO: European Patent Office FES: Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (Germany) FTU Hanoi Foreign Trade University GTZ: Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (German Tecnical Co- operation) GI: Government Inspectorate JICA/LCP: Japan International Cooperation Agency / Legal Cooperation Project IAEA: International Atomic Energy Agency KOICA: Korean International cooperation Agency LERAP: CIDA funded Legal Reform Assistance Project MARD: Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development MOET: Ministry of Education and Training MOJ: Ministry of Justice MOT: Ministry of Trade MOF: Ministry of Finance MOFA: Ministry of Foreign Affairs MOH: Ministry of Health MONRE: Ministry of Natural Resource and Environment 115 MPS: Ministry of Public Security MUTRAP II: Multilateral Trade Assistance Project Vietnam II NA: National Assembly NCFAW: National Committee for the Advancement of Vietnamese Women NLAA: National Legal Aid Agency NORAD: Norway Agency for Development OHMI: Office for the Harmonization in the Internal Market OOG: Office of the Government ONA: Office of National Assembly PCs: People's Committee(s) PLAC: Provincial Legal Aid Centre PMRC: Prime Minister's Research Commission REFAS: Support to the Reform of the Forest Administration System SBV: State Bank of Vietnam SCOG: Strenghening the capacity of the Office of the Government Project SDC: Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation SECO: State Secretariat for Economic Affairs of Switzerland SEMLA program: Vietnam ­ Sweden Cooperation Program on Strengthening Capacity of land and environment management Sida: Swedish International Development Agency SNV: Netherlands-based International Development Organisation SPC: Supreme People's Court SPP: Supreme People's Procuracy STAR: Support for Trade Acceleration Project, funded by USAID SSC: State Securities Comission UNDP: United Nations Development Programme UNICEF: United Nations Children's Fund UNODC: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime UNWTO: World Tourism Organisation USAID: Agency for International Development of the United States VCCI: Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry VLA: VIetnam Lawyers' Association VNU: Vietnam National University WHO: World Health Organisation WTO: The World Trade OrganisationPARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT 116 PARTNERSHIP DEVELOPMENT IN PUBLIC FINANCE MANAGEMENT PROGRESS REPORT (Documents for the Consultative Group Meeting, 14-15 December 2006) I. Background: The year 2006 is the first year of the Socio-economic Development Plan (SEDP) for the period 2006- 2010. Therefore, the financial and budgetary field has been a special focus. Apart from that, in the context of increasing demand by both the Government and the donors to accelerate the process of public finance reforms, the partnerships in the public finance management have been strongly and extensively developed, with focuses on a number of specific areas. II. Process of implementation of cooperation relationship in 2006: 1. Information exchanges amongst the working group led by the Government have been maintained on a regular basis to assess results of the reforms in public finance management. The group-based thematic approach has been applied and gained substantial results, including: Preparation of Single Document integrating all the existing strategies, programs and action plans of the financial sector as well as MOF's sub sectors, implemented under the financial support of MTDF. Such a Single Document will serve as a basis for the donors to provide tech- nical and financial support in accordance with a consistent and systematic framework. This doc- ument wills also response to Hanoi Core Statement on Aid Effectiveness and Harmonization. Realization of recommendations in Public Expenditure Review (PER) 2004 ­ a group has been established for this purpose; it has started working and improved the quality and efficiency of the recommendations, as well as regularly updated the results to the concerned parties. · Reforms of public asset management and the Government's responsibility of payment ­ a group has been established for this purpose, which will help to facilitate activities in the com- ing years to be well on track and of high efficiency. · Tax reforms are considered to rely on the core unit which is the Reform Committee under General Department of Taxation. This unit has been working as a sub-group to coordinate, receive and implement technical assistance programs for taxation. 2. Increasing technical assistance: Technical assistance programs of multilateral and bilateral organ- izations in the area of public finance management in 2006 have been mainly focused on the fol- lowing tasks: State budget spending: supports have been made to establish state budget norms for the new period of budgetary stabilization from 2007 to 2009; to work out the mid-term financial plan and mid-term expenditure plan; to launch the TABMIS contract, etc. and especially, to imple- ment the recommendations of the PER 2004. · State budget revenues: technical assistance programs continue to support the strategic plan on tax reforms and prepare for the Tax Management Modernization project financed by the World 117 Bank. The process of international integration has put forward a lot of reform requirements for the customs, which has been proved by the inclusion of the Customs Modernization Project financed by the World Bank. · Government's debt management: this is a focused area in the recent technical assistance pro- grams, aiming at a comprehensive and consistent management of both domestic and foreign debts to ensure budget safety and readiness. · Price management: this area is still receiving very limited supports. At present, the MDTF is assisting in developing and completing the policy system on price valuation in Vietnam. Public asset management: Likewise in the area of price control, very limited support is now given to public asset management. The MDTF is assisting in improving and completing the legal system for state asset management. Recently, the Australian Government (through AusAid) has expressed its interest to assist in developing law on State Asset management. State owned enterprises reforms (SOE reforms): this area has received quite a lot of technical assistance including support to strengthen the financial management capacity of the SOEs through studying and renovating the methodology for management of the state capital in the SOEs; as well as support to deal with debts and outstanding assets of the SOEs, and etc. Other areas (training, insurance, accounting, auditing, security market, financial policies, etc.): many support programs have been concentrated on capacity strengthening through consulting services, short term and long term training courses, workshops and thematic studies. 3. With the completion of 6 projects and initiation of other 6 new projects, including two large proj- ects financed by the WB, and other bilateral assistance programs from new partners such as the US, South Korea, Czech, Hungary, etc., the area of public financial management is requiring strengthened efforts to coordinate parties of the partnership group. III. Achievements of partnerships in the area of public financial management: 1. Promotion of reforms in finance and budget management: 1.1. Continued efforts to implement the State Budget law approved by the National Assembly in 2002: · Continued revisions and completion of the system of policies and regimes on state budget: the Government has issued norms for recurrent budget allocation for the year 2007, i.e. the first year of the local budget stabilization period (2007-2010) on the basis of inheriting from and tak- ing advantages of achievements of the old system of norms, resolving outstanding problems and unreasonable features to increase cost norms for poor local regions and assure budgets for implementing regimes and policies recently issued by the Government; implementing impor- tant objectives and tasks of the new development stage as guided by the Communist Party res- olutions; and satisfy strategic finance and budget demands for the period 2006 - 2010. · Promoted transparency and disclosure in public financial management: disclosure has met the requirements of the State Budget Law on budget disclosure; the norms have been decided and adopted by the National Assembly and People's Councils of different levels, and have been publicized thereafter. Disclosure on budgets and expenditures of the organizations receiving support from the state budget has also been done; funds initiated from the state budget and funds made of the people's contribution have also been announced; as well as capital invest- 118 ment construction projects funded by the state budget, and other financial supports from the state budget to the individuals and the public, etc. · Published Reports on 2006 Cost Estimates and 2004 State Budget Settlement. · Formulated and issued, for the first time, the principles, criteria and cost norms for develop- ment expenditure allocation from the state budget, applicable to the period 2007-2010 (as guid- ed in the Prime Minister's decision No. 210/2006/QD-TTg of 12 September 2006 regarding principles, criteria and norms for development expenditure allocation from the state budget, period 2007-2010). 1.2. Implemented recommendations of the Public Expenditure Review report 2004: · Based on the decision of the Prime Minister appointing MOF to work with the World Bank in publishing the Vietnam Public Expenditure Review Report 2004 (PER 2004), and based on rec- ommendations of this report, MOF, MPI and concerned agencies, with support from the World Bank and other donors, have implemented the recommendations of PER 2004 and organized periodical reviews of the results. · Concerned ministries and agencies actively participated in implementing the recommendations of PER 2004. Line ministries were proactive in formulating plans and implementation steps to realize these recommendations. Therefore, most of the PER 2004 recommendations have been launched in 2006. 1.3. Launched the Public Financial Management Reform project: · Developed regulations and processes to improve management and increase management effi- ciency while operating the Treasury and Budget Management Information System (TABMIS). · Developed the first medium-term Financial Framework (MTF) and Expenditure Framework (EF) for 4 pilot sectors of education, health care, transportation and agriculture; and conducted on pilot base in 4 provinces (including Hanoi, Phu Tho, Binh Duong and Vinh Long), which would lay an important foundation for developing MTF and EF for the following years. · Debt Management component: studied and developed a project on debt management, which study and analyze the current status and make recommendations as well as solutions for future debt management in order to unify debt management activities of in Vietnam. 1.4. Promoted the realization of sustainable development and poverty reduction objectives: · The state budget continued giving priority to the objectives of sustainable development and poverty reduction. The system of norms for state budget allocation for 2007 has given more pri- orities to the poor and disadvantaged localities, and has served as a basis for budget stabiliza- tion in the coming period of 2007-2010. · Promoted socialization, autonomy and accountability of the public non-profitable agencies and state administrative agencies. The Government has issued series of Resolution, Decree and Circular letters to implement this task. · Strengthened the effective management and utilization of budget expenditure categories for national targets from the state budget to local budgets. 2. Tax administration reforms: 119 · In addition to the active pilot implementation of self-assessment mechanism, which will be conducted at the national level from 2007, the Government has focused on implementing the 3rd step of the Tax System Modernization and Reforms Plan for period 2005-2010, with the focal content of tax administration reforms. The tax administration objectives of the reform program are "to improve tax administration in Vietnam to the same level as other countries in the region, to develop an advanced, modern and professional tax sector for Vietnam in order to ensure the proper implementation of the tax laws; to ensure fair, transparent, efficient and effective tax administration; to facilitate organizational and individual tax payers in compli- ance with the international standards, to increase the readiness to obey tax regulations by indi- vidual and organizational tax payers; to strengthen supervision and monitoring by tax agencies; to ensure revenues for the state budget to facilitate the cause of industrialization and modern- ization" with 10 action plans. · Some draft versions of the new Tax Law have been produced and submitted to the National Assembly for consideration in order to make reform of the tax sector intensively and extensive- ly. Specifically, the draft Law on Tax Administration endorsed by the National Assembly is a firm legal corridor to renovate the tax administration in the coming time. 3. Promotion of corporation governance reforms: · Last year, the Government restructured more than 1,000 state owned enterprises (SOEs), 800 of which were equitized. Equitization of these enterprises, along with changes in the corpora- tion governance arrangements has increased the business efficiency of the enterprises and relieved the burden of the state budget. · The State Capital Investment Corporation (SCIC) has been established to manage the state capital in joint stock companies, through which the Government can remove the patronage mechanism over these enterprises and apply its investment policy through SCIC. 4. Promotion of the development of capital market and financial market: · Implemented a mechanism to combine equitizing and listing companies on the stock market, and at the same time, issued new regulations on corporation governance and information dis- closure. The Securities Law was issued in June 2006 and would come into effect from 1 January 2007. Until November 2006, 74 companies have been listed with the total value of market capitalization reaching 7.7% of the GDP of 2005. The liberalization of stock market has been widened with the right of foreign investors to hold 49% stocks of listed companies. IV. Key activities to be implemented in 2007 in the area of public financial management: Continue implementing reforms in the area of public financial management with following detailed tasks: 1. Budget Expenditure management: to strengthen legal framework; to improve human resource competency; to speed up the development of Treasury and Budget Management Information System (TABMIS) as well as the development of long term and medium term expenditure frame- work; to improve the budget transparency and increase the financial decentralization; 2. Budget Revenue management: to strengthen the tax administrative system and customs reform toward modernization; 120 3. Debt management: to improve the domestic and foreign debt records; to develop debt manage- ment strategy; and to develop risk management mechanism; 4. To perfect legal document providing guidelines to the Securities Law; to restructure securities market toward the expansion of official stock market while narrowing the OTC market; to progres- sively open the securities market following the integration process; to increase management, supervision, coercion, and implementation; 5. Corporate Finance Management: to perfect the policies and mechanism in corporation finance management and improve the capability in state financial management over enterprises; to speed up the equitization process; 6. State assets management: to establish a system for better supervision of state material assets as well as requirements to manage the state asset utilization as defined in the legal documents; 7. Price control: to develop a system of valuation; to renovate the mechanism of price policy regula- tion, especially the price of input materials in the framework of a market economy. V. Measures to strengthen the partnerships: 1. With an aim to strengthen the information exchange and collaboration between concerned parties in order to improve the efficiency in mobilizing and utilizing resources to support public financial management, Ministry of Finance has established a working group which is responsible for coor- dinating activities in international cooperation and developing the relations with donors commu- nity in the field of public financial management. Duties and operation of such working group can be elaborated as follows: · Responsibilities: - To strengthen communication and policy dialogues; - To improve the coordination for better efficiency in mobilizing and utilizing donating sources. · Organization and Operation: - The working group will be led by Vice Minister of Finance who is in charge of external coopera- tion, a leader of International Cooperation Department will be standing member and other mem- bers comprise leaders from concerned departments and general departments within Ministry of Finance (i.e. State Budget Department, General Department of Taxation, State Treasury, State Assets Management Department, Corporate Finance Department, Price Control Department, etc.) - Meetings between the working group and representatives from related organizations and donors will be held on regular basis every 6 months, of which the mid year meeting will be hosted by leader of International Cooperation Department and the year-end meeting will be hosted by the Vice Minister in charge. - The working group will speed up and facilitate the information exchange, policy dialogues and to develop technical assistant programs and projects for the area of public financial management. 2. To strengthen the cooperation with related organizations of Vietnam and international donors who are interested and taking part in the activities of the working group; - Ministry of Finance welcomes the participation from Vietnamese related organizations and donors 121 into the working group. When there is a wish to join the working group, please send to Ministry of Finance a written concern. - The close collaboration will be continually strengthened with the leading role of Ministry of Finance. - Donors who are interested in and timely respond to the assistant needs of the Government based on the prioritized order. - To ensure the interactive communication between the Government and donors. 122 MINISTRY OF FINANCE LIST OF NEWLY APPROVED PROJECTS IN 2006 LIST OF PROJECTS SUBMITTING FOR APPROVAL AND WAITING FOR SPONSOR COOPERATION ACTIVITIES WITH MINISTRIES OF FINANCE IN OTHER COUNTRIES Implementation No Program/Project Donor ODA fund Target Contact person Note time LIST OF NEWLY APPROVED PROJECTS IN 2006 NON-REFUNDABLE ODA 3,018,702 PROJECTS To test the electronic processing system International Cooperation Department - General Customs Office Pilot project on customs clearance (e-Manifest), aiming at assisting Mr. Dng Vn Tâm 1 for commodities serving USTDA 10/2006 - 11/2006 601,893 Vietnam for a better customs clearance Deputy Director - nternational Cooperation Department - General APEC2006 for delegation participating in APEC Customs Office 2006, thus improving Vietnam's image. To assist the implementation of budget State Budget Department - MOF Public Finance (Component 2 of 1,250,000 policy and fiscal policy, a public finance 28 Trn Hng o 2 Germany 1/2006 - 12/2009 Macro Economic Reform Program) that are in line with international Tel: 220.28.28 Feasibility study of the Project standards at a higher level Ms. Trn Kim Hin To sponsor products and services need- "Upgrading and Development of State Securities Committee ed to establish the feasibility study of the 3 Security Transaction Centre in USTDA 6/2006 - 6/2007 420,000 Tel: 04.9340763/ Fax: 04. 9340740 Project "Upgrading and Development of Hanoi" Ms. Ngà - Expert, International Cooperation Department Security Transaction Centre in Hanoi" (1) To develop more the Vietnam's Centralized Security Centre (2) To State Securities Committee Development of regulations and develop the management, in order to 4 First Fund - 7/2006 - 2/2007 385,000 Tel: 04.9340763/ Fax: 04. 9340740 guidelines on the management of assist and supervise activities of invest- Britain Ms. Thuy - Expert, International Cooperation Department Asset Fund and Investment Fund ment funds on the basis of orientations stated in the Security Law To build capacity and develop skills in the analysis, planning, evaluation and Project "Capacity development for Gender budget" Capacity development for Gender 5 Canada 8/2006 - 8/2007 89,809 supervision of bidget from gender Academy of Finance budget aspect (incorporating gender into budget 7 Lý Thng Kit, Hanoi cycle) 123 To establish a modern National Financial Staticstical Information Informatics and Financial Statistics Department Vietnam's Financial Statistical 6 USTDA 2006 - 1/2008 272,000 System (NFSIS) and to strengthen Ministry of Finance Information System capacity of MOF staff on managing input data, analysis and report writing. LIST OF PROJECTS SUBMITTING FOR APPROVAL AND WAITING FOR SPONSOR NON-REFUNDABLE ODA PROJECTS (1) To strengthen the safety and sustain- The Ministry agreed in principle able development of Vietnam's insur- that the Insurance Department ance market; (2) To assist MOF in issu- Vietnam towards international stan- First Fund - will coordinate with relevant 1 11/2006 - 3/2007 249,000 ing management and supervision regu- Insurance Department - MOF dards on insurance supervision Australia agencies and donors to develop lations that are in line with international a detailed project document for standards of the Association of approval from the authorities. International Insurance. To provide consultancy and assist MOF Technical assistance project on Lobbying for funding from (Tax General Department) in preparing 2 Modernisation of tax administrative Japan 2006 - 2007 1,000,000 Tax General Department - MOF Human Development Fund for project's access to WB loans, serving management PHRD tax reform strategy until 2010. To assist tax department to successfully implement the Tax Modernisation and Tax administrative management D kin 120 3 WB 2007 - 2010 Reform Plan, in accordance with the set Tax General Department - MOF Loan proposal to the WB Modernisation triu USD orientation and ensuring the sustainability of the reform program. MDTF Fund Room 503, Project building - No. 4, Alley 1, Hang Chuoi street To assist all 6 components of D kin 5 triu Tel: 04.9719650 4 MDTF Fund (phase II) 9 donors 7/2007 - 2010 Modernisation Program in Finance USD Contact: Mr. Nguyn Chí Tun Sector Assistant to Director nguyenchituan@mof.gov.vn "Local Developmen Investment D kin 120 - To establish local development Department of Banking Finance and 5 WB xut vay vn WB Fund" Project 150 triu USD investment funds. other Credit Institutions - MOF 124 COOPERATION WITH MINISTRIES OF FINANCE IN OTHER COUNTRIES AND OTHER PARTNERS To cooperate in information exchange, International Cooperation Department - MOF workshops, training. Vietnam will sum- 28 Trn Hng o Cooperation with the US Ministry 1 USA marise the needs for technical assis- Tel: 04.220.28.28/ Ext 7021 of Finance tance and send to the US Ministry of Mr. Quách Mnh Lâm Finance Expert - phòng CTDA International Cooperation Department - MOF Vietnam is exchanging information on 28 Trn Hng o the needs and technical assistance pro- 2 Cooperation with Hungary Hungary Tel: 04.220.28.28/ Ext 7021 posals that are appropriate with Mr. Quách Mnh Lâm Hungarian advantages. Expert - phòng CTDA International Cooperation Department - MOF MOU was signed in September 2006, Cooperation with Ministry of 28 Trn Hng o implementing by training, workshops, 3 Economics and Finance - South Ministry of Economics and Finance - South Korea Tel: 04.220.28.28/ Ext 7166 conference, study tours, information Korea Mr. Tran Duc Trung exchange and staff exchange. Expert - phòng CTDA It is expected that first cooperation International Cooperation Department - MOF activities will be carried out in 2007: 01 28 Trn Hng o 4 Cooperation with Czech Republic Czech Republic study tour by Vietnam's MOF delegation, Tel: 04.220.28.28/ Ext 7170 coming to Czech Republic for Ms. Mai Thi Le Mai experience learning. Expert - phòng CTDA MOU was signed in September 2006. International Cooperation Department - MOF Assistance is committed in (1) 28 Trn Hng o Development of bond market (2) Risk Tel: 04.220.28.28/ Ext 7166 5 Cooperation with HSBC HSBC management (3) Management of Mr. Tran Duc Trung Financial Funds (4) Training and capaci- Expert - phòng CTDA ty development for MOF. 125 SUMMARY OF IMPLEMENTATION PROGRESS OF VIETNAM PUBLIC EXPENDITURE REVIEW 2004 RECOMMENDATIONS (Compilation from submissions by Ministries, Central Agencies and Governmental Entities) Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) - Tasks of Socio-economic and financial Plan - 2006-2010 budget plan and busi- 1. Public expendi- 1. Reflect the analysis and recommendations of PER-IFR 2004 in ness plans of Ministries. ture analysis forthcoming Socio-Economic Development Plan and forthcoming Ministries (MPI) 2005 - 2008 - Decree No 92/2006/ND-CP dated September 7, 2006 of the Government on the budgets, and monitor the implementation closely. preparation, approval and management of The Overall Plan Socio-Economic Development. - Project VIE 03/010 funded by the UNDP for Policy Analysis Capacity 2. Further enhance the capacity and status of public expenditure Enhancement and managed by MOF. analysis teams within the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Ministries 2005 - 2007 - In 2007, the Ministries shall design their training programs to enhance the public Planning and Investment, sector ministries and provinces. expenditure analysis capacity in all Ministries and Branches. 3. Continue to take a lead in coordinating with WB and Donors to MOF, other Ministries Completed by Under preparation for researches on a small scale, e.g. 'financial risks and budget implement another PER-IFA within the next three years, and and Local end of 2007 sustainability'. conduct annual updates on a smaller scale. Governments 2. Fiscal In 2005, MTEF has been piloted in 4 Ministries (MOET, MOH, MOT and MOARD) 1. Rapidly implement the plan to prepare a realistic, feasible and sustainability MOF, MPI, Annually from for the 2006-2008 period; it is continuous to implement in pilot manner in those 04 sustainable Medium-Term Fiscal Framework as part of every ministries and local 2005 Ministries and other local governments (Ha Noi, Ha Tay, Binh Duong and Vinh budget cycle governments Long) for the 2007-2009 period. - It is reflected in State Budget and Financial Plan for 2006-2010 (Decision No.211/QÐ-TTg dated 14th Dec. 2004 by the Prime Minister ratifying financial 2. Keep the reasonable share of revenues in GDP at current level development orientation of Vietnam toward 2010). of 21-22 percent, with ongoing efforts to improve tax policy and MOF, MPI From 2005 - Drafting the Personal Income Tax Law (submitted to National Assembly) and Tax tax collection administration. Administration Law has been recently passed by NA on Nov. 22, 2006 and being effective on Jan. 1, 2007. - To be studied and completed by the Component 3 (debt management) of the PFMRP; it is expected to establish an independent unit in MOF to manage public debt. Decree No 134/2005/ND-CP dated Dec. 1, 2005 is issued, replacing the Decree No 90/1998/ND-CP, to regulate clearly the responsibilities of all agencies related to foreign debt management. 3. Clarify and rationalize assignment of responsibility for - Decree No 131/2006/ND-CP dated Nov. 9, 2006 of the Government issuing the management of debt, and strengthen arrangements for the MOF 2005 - 8008 Regulations on Management and Use of ODA which replaces the Decree No monitoring and management of other fiscal risks. 17/2001/ND-CP dated May 4, 2001 of the Government. - Decision No 231/2006/QD-TTg dated Oct. 16, 2006 of Prime Minister to issue the Regulations on Establishment and Management of National Foreign-debt Appraisal and Supervision Indicators System. - Decision No 232/2006/QD-TTg dated Oct. 16, 2006 of Prime Minister to issue the Regulations on Compilation and Consolidation for Sharing and Publishing Foreign debt Information. 126 126 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) 4. Control the budget deficit (exclusive principle payments) below 3 This is reflected in State Budget and Financial Plan for 2006 ­ 2010 (Decision No. MOF 2005 - 2007 percent of GDP. 211/Q-TTg) Government bond liabilities have been included in the debt repayment schedule of Government. In State Budget and Financial Plan for 2006-2010 (Decision No. 5. Restrict an issuance of off-budget bond, and channel all MOF, MPI, Local 2005 - 2008 211/Q-TTg), it is regulated that: the outstanding levels of government debt and Government borrowing in future into the budget. Governments national debt should be kept at safe level. Study for State Budget Law revision. 6. Take urgent action to resolve the arrears of current construction Ministries, Local Implementation of the Resolution of the Government to solve the non-performing expenditure (particularly in the transport and agriculture sectors) 2005 - 2007 Governments debts in construction in all economic areas in 2005 and 2006 period. and prevent their further increase. 7. Use the fiscal reporting system in light of GFS standards MOF 2005 - 2008 Under study for development and implementation. designed by IMF. 3. Composition of 1. Set up a reasonable and effective balance between capital and public - Reflected in Decision 211/Q-TTg on State Budget and Financial Plan for 2006- recurrent expenditure of State budget, with an aim to move core expenditure 2010: the composition of capital and recurrent expenditures and debt repayments priority to composition, quality and sustainability of capital MOF, MPI 2005 - 2007 are developed reasonably. expenditure rather than quantity. (In the World Bank's view, the - Together with salary reform strategy in 2003-2007 period, the proportion of recur- Government should not make the capital expenditure faster rent expenditure would be improved increase than recurrent expenditure.) 2. Create an appropriate environment for private investments, Reflected in State Budget and Financial Plan for 2006-2010 (according to Decision including the options for attracting private participation in MOF, MPI 211) and Law on Bidding: non-state enterprises can participate in bids for 2005 - 2007 constructing a public infrastructure system in order to reduce the infrastructure construction projects. subsidy of State budget for SOEs related. 3. Restructure budget plan to ensure that recurrent expenditure - Budget estimate and salary reform approach for 2003-2007 and increasing pace takes an increasing proportion of the State budget; but it is noted of recurrent expenditure have been improved further. MOF, MOHA 2005 - 2007 that the increases in wages and salaries should not make a - Measures to increase salary but not reduce other recurrent spendings are stud- decrease of other operation and maintenance spendings. ied. 127 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) - Resolution 05/NQ-CP dated 18th April 2005 by the Government to accelerate the socialization of culture, health care, education and sports - Decree No. 130/2005/N-CP dated 17th Oct. 2005 stipulating self-responsibility regime on employee employment and administrative expenditure in Governmental agencies (in replacement of Decision 192/Q-TTg dated 17th Dec. 2001 by the Prime Minister on pilot extension of lump-sum on employee size and administrative expenditure) - Decree No. 43/2006/N-CP dated 25th Apr. 2006 regulating autonomy and self-responsibility regime on performance, organizational structure, employee size 4. Strengthen and combine a preparation of salary plan and and financial matters of public services units. employment reform; increase salary through implementation of a MOF, MPI and other 2005 - 2007 - Decree No 53/2006/ND-CP dated May 25, 2006 on policy encouraging the clearer strategy to shift non-core tasks from Government to the ministries development of service supply units from private sector (it replaces the Decree No private sector. 73/1999/ND-CP dated August 18, 1999. - Decree No 115/2005/ND-CP dated September 5, 2005 regulating the autonomy and self-responsibility regime of public science and technology organizations. - Inter-Ministries Circular No 03/2006/TTLT-BTC-BNV dated January 7, 2006 instructing implementation of Decree No 130/2005/ND-CP.. - Circular No 71/2006/TT-BTC dated August 9, 2006 of MOF instructing implemen- tation of Decree 43/2006/ND-CP. - Circular 91/2006/TT-BTC dated Oct. 2, 2006 instructing implementation of Decree No 53/2006/ND-CP. - In 2005, MTEF has been piloted in 4 Ministries (MOET, MOH, MOT and MOARD) for the 2006-2008 period; it is continuous to implement in pilot manner in those 04 5. Combine the allocation of functional and economic expenditures Ministries and other local governments (Ha Noi, Ha Tay, Binh Duong and Vinh with those of national and sector-level strategies. This effort Long) for the 2007-2009 period. should be based on the policy analysis in the aggregate MTFF MOF, MPI 2005 - 2007 - In the meantime, Circular No 56/2006/TT-BTC dated June 23, 2006 of MOF on and sector and province-level MTEFs, rather than on arbitrary instruction of the preparation of state budget estimation of 2007 requesting all and inflexible rules on budget shares for "priority sectors". budgetary entities to set up their plans for budget revenue and expenditure for 2007-2010 period (dividing into annual basic). - Decision 151/2006/QD-TTg dated June 29, 2006 of Prime Minister on the 6. Use new MOLISA and GSO poverty data to assess whether issuance of allocation ceilings for recurrent expenditure in 2007 reflecting the top Right after the resources are allocated in line with targets to reduce poverty priority for most difficult and poor areas. MOF, MPI poverty data and promote growth; and further investigate how allocations are - Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg dated Sep. 12, 2006 of Prime Minister on the available benefiting various sub-groups of the population. issuance of principles and ceilings for investment and development budget alloca- tion for 2007-2010 period also reflecting the core priority for poor areas. 128 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) 4. Public 1. Expand budget coverage to comply with internationally-accepted expenditure norms. In particular, budgets should include all fees and management contributions, and all government debt, including on-lending and MOF 2005 - 2008 Study to amend State Budget Law to record all Government debts on budget. the currently off-budget bonds. Budgets should also include as detailed as possible an estimation of guaranteed debts and other contingent liabilities. - Within the Hanoi Core Statement, the Research Groups have been set up to pre- pare the options moving ODA into budget plan, including Public Finance Reform 2. Encourage Donors to accelerate harmonization of their Group and ODA Spendings Indicators Appraisal Group. disbursement process and our disbursement of ODA through MPI and MOF 2005 - 2007 - MOF has issued the Decision No 61/2006/QD-BTC dated Nov. 2, 2006 on that State treasury; and ensure that all ODA is recorded on budget. replaces the Decision No 112/2001/QD-BTC dated Nov. 9, 2001 of Minister of Finance issuing some spending levels to be applied for projects/programs that use ODA in borrowing type. - In 2005, MTEF and MTFF have been piloted in 4 Ministries (MOET, MOH, MOT 3. Promote function of the recently established Inter-Ministerial and MOARD) for the 2006-2008 period; Working Group on Medium-Term Expenditure Planning; and MOF 2005 - In 2006, it is continuous to implement in pilot manner in those 04 Ministries and accelerate implementation of the pilot MTFF and pilot MTEFs in other local governments (Ha Noi, Ha Tay, Binh Duong and Vinh Long) for the 2007- four sectors and four provinces. 2009 period. - The TABMIS is expected to be linked with other Ministries and Branches to allow them accessing to information concerned. - Bid of whole system has been completed. - Minister of Finance has issued the Decision No 2226 and 2227 to mobilize 81 staffs and experts from related Departments of MOF participating in TABMIS 4. Carry out the steps to ensure the TABMIS provides timely and Development Committee. accurately information that could be immediately accessed by - Its implementation pace has been accelerated, including: MPI and other 04 Ministries and provinces who are on pilot MOF 2005-2008 + Analyzing uniform between operational procedures and software application; implementation of MTEF when developing the new Treasury and + Completing policies, regulations and management procedures of budget fund Budget Management Information System TABMIS) and state treasury process to produce the standard process of TABMIS opera- tion in future; + Preparing the State accounting procedures; + Studying a roadmap to apply centralized payment system; + Studying requirement s of training and transformation. 5. Continue to consider options for merger of planning units with Ministries and 2005 - 2007 Many ministries started to merge these two units at ministerial level. financial ones in local and sectoral levels in selected method. provinces - Being carried out under the PFMRP, Component 2: MTFF and MTEF development. - In 2005, MTEF and MTFF have been piloted in 4 Ministries (MOET, MOH, MOT 6. To strengthen MOF-MPI joint working, MPI should become an and MOARD) for the 2006-2008 period. In April 2006, the performance reports active partner with MOF, line ministries and provinces in the MOF, MPI 2005 have been issued to related Ministries, central agencies and other entities for refer- preparation of MTEFs; and MOF should play a major role in the ence. development of the Socio-Economic Development Plan. - In 2006, it is continuous to implement in pilot manner in those 04 Ministries and other local governments (Ha Noi, Ha Tay, Binh Duong and Vinh Long) for the 2007- 2009 period. 129 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) Germany financed Project has provided financing support to study budget 7. Strengthen the links between performance indicators and estimation preparation basing on performance. Also, the overseas study tour and MOF 2005 - 2007 budgetary decisions. Seminar have been organized in Ha Noi to introduce this method to officials relat- ed of Ministries, central organizations and two provinces (Ben Tre and Hai Duong). 8. Strengthen the monitoring of service delivery by using the Decree No 43/2006/ND-CP regulated that the heads of profit-production units have Citizen Inquiry card; and encourage civil organizations to be MOF, MHA 2005 - 2007 responsibilities to cooperate with and facilitate the Party and Social organizations more active in participating in monitoring service delivery at the to participate in monitoring and managing all aspects of service suppliers. local level. - On June 29, 2006, Prime Minister issued the Decision No 151/2006/QD-TTg 9. Consider options for further reform of allocation norms used to introducing the allocation norms of recurrent expenditure estimation plan for 2007. determine public expenditure needs in the formulates of - On Sep. 12, 2006, Prime Minister issued the Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg on balancing supplement/revenue-sharing ratio; issue guidance to MOF 2005 - 2007 the issuance of Principles and Norms of make clearer what norm is only indicative and what norm is Development investment expenditures for a period of 2007-2010 from State budget compulsory. funds. 10. Develop TABMIS to ensure that MPI and line ministries are given direct access to State Treasury database for execution of MOF 2005 - 2008 Implementation of TABMIS is accelerating. budget spending at each economic sector in every level of Government. 11. Monitor and assess the impact of budget implementation basing on annual estimation plan and the more flexibility in such implementation in order to ensure that it results in an MOF 2005 - 2007 Under study. improvement and not deterioration in the composition of budget expenditure, outputs and services quality. 12. Refine and adopt the new Unified Chart of Accounts to use it as MOF 2005 - 2006 Being implemented under the PFMR Project. part of TABMIS. 13. Continue to pay attention to change management, organization- MOF 2005 - 2006 This is implemented under the PFMR Project. al readiness when developing TABMIS. - In 2005-2006, 6 new accounting standards were issued. 5. Financial - Standing Committee of NA has issued the Solution No 917/2005/NQ-UBTVQH accountability dated Sep. 15, 2005 on the preparation and issuance process of State Accounting and Standards System. This is a legal basis for revising the old one that has been transparency effective since 1999. - Vietnam State Audit is studying to prepare the pre-audit procedures for State budget estimate and national important constructions; - Vietnam State Audit is studying to prepare the regulations on the request of technical assessment for audit and the authorization and recruitment of auditing firm; 1. Move progressively towards adopting International Public Sector MOF, State Audit of 2005 - 2007 - SAV is now preparing the State auditing standards based on international Accounting Standards (IPSAS) and International Auditing Standards. Vietnam practices; - Accounting Policy Department (APD) under authorization of MOF is going to organize three (03) training courses on international accounting standards in public sector for some Ministries and economic Universities. First course will be from 11 to 21 December, 206. - MOF has issued the new system of profit-production entities accounting procedures under the Decision 19/2006/QD-BTC dated March 30, 2006 (replacing the Decision 999) and approved the scope of State accounting application and its accounts system. 130 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) - Project VIE 02/008 on "Strengthening the capacity of the National Assembly and People's Councils to determine, decide and monitor State budget" is formed under Economic and Budgetary Committee of NA. 2. Establish a unit in National Assembly in charge of overseeing - On August 2006, MOF has in cooperation with EBC of NA completed the book the public accounts, perhaps by strengthening the capacity of National Assembly 2005 - 2006 namely "Budget Supervision Manual of National Assembly and People Committees the Economic and Budgetary Committee. in all levels" that will be used by representatives of NA and those PCs; - EBC of NA has incorporation with MOF organized several training courses to improve the capacity of representatives of NA and PCs in supervising budget implementation. - The National Assembly of Vietnam ratified Audit Law in June 2005 and it was in effective since Jan. 1, 2006; 3. Ensure an independence for SAV by converting it into a - This Law regulated clearly the operation principles of State Audit Agency and its specialized organization of the National Assembly operating on NA 2005 - 2006 legal position in order to ensure the independence of its operation; independent manner in accordance to related law. - This Law also regulated the power and process to appoint a post of General State Audit in order to keep the independence and objectivity of this function in particular and the State Audit Agency in general in carrying out the audit tasks. - Reflected in Audit Law approved by the NA in June 2005. 4. Improve the transparency of the oversight process by publishing - In 2005, State Audit Agency has published the auditing results of 2004 budget the audit reports to the public, and promote demand for State Audit 2006- 2007 plan. accountability by encouraging the debate in media and public on - It is expected that the process of publicity of auditing results will be issued in third public financial management issues. quarter of 2007 to standardize this operation in accordance to Audit Law. - In the State Audit Law (Provision 3, Article 6), it regulated the responsibilities of entities in setting up their internal auditing units, and the responsibilities of state audit agency in conducting and instructing the practices of internal audit (in Provision 15, Article 15). 5. Further rationalize the roles and responsibilities of the audit and - A Seminar on internal audit has been organized jointly by WB, MOF and State State Audit and inspection functions, for example, consider establishing internal Audit Agency. Government 2005 - 2007 audit functions, initially at ministerial level, to gradually replace - It is expected that in fourth quarter of 2007 the instruction paper of internal Inspectorate the existing inspection function at each ministry. auditing operation and use of its results will be prepared. It would be issued immediately after the legal documents regulating the operation and organization of internal auditing units in agencies, organizations and entities which manage and use Sate budget and assets have been passed by EBC of NA or other Government authorized agency. 6. Ensure application of revised accounting and auditing standards A new accounting procedures for enterprises has been issued. MOF 2005 - 2007 in large SOEs (General Corporations). 131 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) - The Enterprise Law was approved by the NA in Nov. 2005 and effective on 1st July 2006; 7. Draft a combined law to be applied by SOEs and non-state - Decree No 88/2006/ND-CP dated August 29, 2006 on business registration enterprises so that they have the same obligations; strengthen process; MPI the internal audit function in SOEs; and establish a professional 2006 - 2007 - Circular No 03/2006 dated Oct. 19, 2006 instructs the contents and procedures of association of internal auditors. business registration according to Decree No 88/2006/ND-CP; - At this time, MPI is studying to issue the instructive Circulars following Decree No 88/2006/ND-CP. - The Decision 192/Q-TTg dated 16th Nov. 2004 by the Prime Minister on finan- 8. Continue to monitor systematically the publicity of budgets and cial publicity regulations has been put into implementation; financial funds at local levels, and also encourage provinces and - MOF has issued 05 Circulars conducting the implementation of those regulations; MOF 2005 - 2007 districts to monitor how many schools, health centers and other - MOF also issued Circular 54/2006/TT-BTC dated June 19, 2006 instructing the spending units publish their budgets and financial funds. implementation of regulations on publicity of direct budget support for individuals and public. - The 2005 budget estimate and 2003 budget final account were published. 9. Publish an annual report with detailed information on public Annually from - The book of "Publicity of 2006 State budget estimate and Final account of State MOF expenditures in each province. 2005 budget 2004" has been published in Oct. 2006. In which, the detailed collection and spending amount of all localities have been published. 10. Produce each year the "Budget White Paper" explaining in Annually from MOF has passed the outline and to finalize it in coming time. It is expected that this easier way of understanding the contents of the Budget plan and MOF 2006 document would be published at the end 2006 or beginning 2007. its links to national development goals and strategies. - The National Assembly approved Law on anti-corruption in Nov. 2005. The Action Plans of Government, Ministries and local governments to implement this Law has been also developed; - On Otc.20, 2006, the Government has issued the Decree No 120/2006/ND-CP 11. Complete as soon as possible the corruption review report and Government regulating and instructing in details some provisions of the Law; 2005 ensure appropriate follow-up action. Inspectorate - The report No 1831/BC-TTCP dated Sep. 28, 2006 of the Government Inspection Agency on the discussion and preparation of action plan related to UN Convention on Anti-corruption; - Office of Government has official letter No 6332/VPCP-VI dated Nov. 1, 2006 on the approval and implementation of this Convention. 1. Monitor and evaluate the impacts on public service delivery 6. when provincial authorities are authorized to actively decentral- Decentralization - Study and assessment of State budget classification in accordance to State ize the budget management tasks to Districts and Communes; MOF, local to local 2005 - 2007 Budget Law and the proposed revisions are expected to do in coming time and consider in long-term period the way to identify the specif- governments governments - The impact of public services will be continuously studied in coming time. ic revenue and expenditure assignments for districts and communes. 132 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) 2. Enhance administrative capacity at the local governments by implementing the programs to upgrade and maintain essentially MOF 2005 - 2007 The training courses for commune officials in charge of budget and financial man- technical and administrative skills at the district and commune agement have been organized nation-wide. levels. 3. Consider the need in near future to determine specific expenditure assignments for districts and communes, and the Assessing the implementation of revised State Budget Law and considering for its MOF 2005 - 2008 need to allow for asymmetric assignments under the provincial amendment in coming time. level in certain local government. - Resolution No 05/NQ-CP dated April 18, 2005 of Government on the further socialization of education, health, culture and sport activities; 4. Issue regulations to strengthen the cooperation among agencies - Decree 63/2005/ND-CP of the Government introduces the regime for the private at different levels of government and the coordination among the health centers to provide the medical care services for persons having health agencies taking a share of the same expenditure assignment; MOF insurance cards; 2005 - 2006 and to facilitate the private sector participating in public service - Decree No 53/2006/ND-CP dated May 25, 2006 on the encouraging policy of supply. non-government public service suppliers, which replaces the Decree No 73/1999/ND-CP dated August 18, 1999. 5. Study the feasibility of increasing an autonomous rights at the Assessing the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment MOF 2005 - 2007 provincial level in tax collection in medium term. in coming time. 6. Consider the ways to improve the share of revenue collected Assess the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment in MOF 2005 - 2007 from different taxes between central and provincial budget funds. coming time. 7. Monitor and review how the existing approaches that are not regulated in SBL in regard to a share of revenue for districts and Assessing the implementation of revised State Budget Law (2002) and considering communes are performing. (In the WB's view, the Government MOF 2005 - 2007 its amendment in coming time. could mandate in more explicit basis a share of revenue for these local levels in next step of State Budget Law revision.) - The Prime Minister has issued the Decision No 151/2006/QD-TTg dated June 29, 8. Consider to update the existing estimation system of balancing 2006 introducing the norms of budget allocation for recurrent expenditure estima- supplementary allocation by adding the clearer collection norms tion in 2007; MOF, MPI 2005 - 2007 based on better capacity of revenue forecast; and by introducing - On Sep. 12, 2006, Prime Minister issued the Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg intro- transparency norms for investment expenditure budget. ducing the principles and allocation norms for investment expenditure for a period 2007-2010. 9. Consider an adoption of balancing supplementary support regime Assessing the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment MOF 2005 - 2008 basing thoroughly on fixed formula. in coming time. The Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg dated Sep. 12, 2006 of Prime Minister intro- 10. Strengthen the targeted supplementary support system for both MOF 2005 - 2007 duced some principles and criteria and norms of additional budget allocation for recurrent and investment expenditures. targeted projects. 133 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) 11. Consider an establishment of new budget classification system, whereby the full autonomy of local governments on their budget Assessing the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment MOF 2005 - 2008 funds should be ensured with basic point that their People's in coming time. Councils are fully authorized to decide the budget plans. 12. Delegate more authority to local governments (mainly provincial levels) in determining their own expenditure regimes in Assessing the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment MOF 2005 - 2008 accordance to principles or within a framework set by the in coming time. Government. 13. Strengthen the existing rules of capital mobilization for local governments ­ in particular, the rules of debt limitation- and Assessing the implementation of State Budget Law and considering its amendment MOF 2005 - 2008 ensure the inclusion of all bond issuance by provinces in the in coming time. State Budget. 7. Delegation to - Decree 130/2005/N-CP dated Oct. 17, 2005 of the Government regulating the spending units autonomy and self-responsibility of Government agencies on their personnel struc- ture and administrative spending funds, (replacing the Decision No 192/QD-TTg dated Dec. 17, 2001 of Prime Minister on expansion of pilot implementation of 1. Use the Citizen Inquiry Card method to help assessing the satis- Line Ministries; lump-sum regime for personnel structure and administrative expenditure) has one faction of public on lump-sum expenditure plan in administrative 2005 - 2007 MOHA, MOF Article regulating that this task would be assigned to the line Ministries to develop a units in accordance to the Decision 192/2001/Q-TTg. mechanism assessing quality of public services in all levels. - Inter-Ministries Circular No 03/2006/TTLT-BTC-BNV dated Jan. 7, 2006 instruct- ing the implementation of Decree No 130/2005/ND-CP dated Oct. 17, 2005 of the Government. - This is stipulated in Decree 130/2005/N-CP dated 17th Oct 2005 by the Government on autonomy and self-responsibility of Government agencies on their use of personnel size and administrative expenditure funds (in replacement of 2. Consider to give more constraint on the autonomy of budget Public Expenditure Decision 192/Q-TTg dated 17th Dec. 2001 by the Prime Minister). given to managers for salary and reward basing the Decision Management 2005 - 2006 Inter-Ministries Circular No 03/2006/TTLT-BTC-BNV guides the implementation of 192/2001/QD-TTg, while the reasonable flexibility is till kept to Department - MOF this Decree. allow them executing budget plans effectively. - Inter-Ministries Circular No 03/2006/TTLT-BTC-BNV dated Jan. 7, 2006 instruct- ing the implementation of Decree No 130/2005/ND-CP dated Oct. 17, 2005 of the Government. - Decree 130, which replaces Decision 192, expands the lump-sum norms of administrative spending for all public administration agencies; hence the differ- ences of salary structure between the lump-sum applied agencies and the remain- ing agencies when implementation. 3. Consider whether the separation of salary spendings is more - Decree No 43/2006/ND-CP dated April 25, 2006 which replaces the Decree No appropriate method in the situation of many inadequacies of cur- MOF 2005 - 2006 10, regulating the autonomy and self-responsibility of Government administrative rent salary structure in public sector. units on their task performance, organizational structure, personnel scale and financial issues; - Circular No 71/2006/TT-BTC instructing the implementation of Decree No 43/2006/ND-CP dated April 25, 2006 of the Government. 134 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) 4. Create the mechanisms to ensure the access of the poors and near-poors to essential social services. The recommendations - Resolution 05/NQ-CP dated April 18, 2005 of Government on pushing up the from Ministries are that it is necessary to push up "socialization" socialization of education, health, culture and sport activities. of conditioned and socially accepted services. In the meantime, - Decree No 43/2006/ND-CP dated April 25, 2006 regulating the autonomy and it is needed to set up the rules that ensure the poors and self-responsibility of Government administrative units on their task performance, near-poors being able to access to basic social services. In organizational structure, personnel scale and financial issues. MOF, MOH 2005 - 2007 addition, the transfer of some profitable administrative units to - MOF has issued the Circular No 91/2006/TT-BTC dated Oct. 02, 2006 on the the form of enterprise is needed. However, WB also instruction of implementation of Decree No 53/2006/ND-CP dated May 5, 2006 of recommended that Government should be prudent in developing the Government that encouraged the non-government units to provide services. implementation of Decree No 10/2002/ND-CP in order to have - Prime Minister has allowed undertaking a pilot transformation of some public time gathering experiences, making detailed review and setting health centers to joint stock companies in Ho Chi Minh city. up and performing the measures to limit the hidden risks. - Government has issued the Decree No 43/2006/ND-CP dated April 25, 2006 regulating the autonomy and self-responsibility of public administrative units on 5. Continue to review and assess the impact of Decree their task performance, organizational structure, personnel scale and financial 10/2002/ND-CP by using the "Public Service Review" card to MOF, line ministries 2005 - 2007 issues. It replaces the Decree No 10; help assessing the people satisfaction on public services. - MOF has also issued the Circular No 71/2006/TT-BTC dated August 9, 2006 to instruct the implementation of the Decree No 43. 6. For profitable administrative units operating under Decree No 10/2002/ND-CP, attention should put on the close link between MOF has cooperated with MOH to submit Prime Minister the draft of Decision that State budget resources and "purchase" of specific public goods replaces the Decision No 139/2002/QD-TTg towards linking closely the State budg- MOF 2005 - 2007 and services, especially for the poor ­ and the development of et sources to the purchase of health insurance for poorers and supporting the price mechanisms for monitoring and enforcing service delivery for near-poor persons. against signed contracts. 8. Public 1. Include the analysis of recurrent expenditure generated from investment investments into selection process of investment projects, and MPI, MOF 2005 - 2007 It is on pilot period in 04 Ministries (MOET, MOT, MOARD, MOH) and 04 provinces management use measures as MTEF to ensure a consistency between (Ha Noi, Ha Tay, Binh Duong and Vinh Long) under PFMR Project. recurrent and investment spendings. 2. Undertake a strategic review of the decentralization of public - Under implementation; investment responsibilities between different Government levels MPI, Ministries and - Investment Law No 59/2005/QH11 has been passed by NA on Nov. 29, 2005 and and different management levels when implementing the local governments 2005 being effective on July 1, 2006. Resolution 08/2004/NQ-CP by the Government. - The Investment Law has been approved by NA and introduced; - Decree No 108/2006/ND-CP dated Sep. 22, 2006 of the Government introducing 3. Strengthen capacity to guide, train, support and supervise the the detailed regulations and instruction for implementation of Investment Law; bodies that are decentralized with authority of investment decision MPI 2005 - 2007 - Decision No 1088/2006/QD-BKH dated Oct. 19, 2006 of MPI on the issuance of and management. samples for investment application in Vietnam; - Now, it is in consideration of issuance of Circular that instructs the implementation of Decree No 108/2006/ND-CP dated Sep. 22, 2006 of the Government. 135 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time frame (As of December 2006) On September 12, 2006, Prime Minister issued the Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg 4. Develop the indicators and norms of budget allocation for devel- MPI 2005 introducing the principles and norms of state budget allocation for development opment investment in light of State Budget Law. investment in a period of 2007-2010 period. 5. Systematize the analysis and assessment of risks linked to investment, including contingent risks associated with MPI 2005 ­ 2006 Under development of plan and research outline. Government credits. 6. Require all investment authorized bodies to keep registration of standard project in which the planned, authorized and actual Ministries, local From 2005 The TABMIS is under development process. expenditures are updated basing on database of TABMIS in governments, MPI soonest date. 9. Public - The Form of Goods Procurement Bidding Invitation has been published. Other procurement forms are being developed to be in line with the Bidding Law. management 1. Issue instructions and standard bidding documents to guide staff - The Standard Bidding Documents for Goods which was issued in 2005 will need in executing agencies in implementing Decree MPI 2005 to be revised to ensure consistency with the new procurement law and guiding 66/2003/N-CP decree; - RFP for consulting services and standard bid evaluation report form are currently under development and the first drafts have been prepared by MPI. - The web on bidding procedures has been completed: http://dauthau.mpi.gov.vn 2. Supplement the new paper-based Procurement Bulletin with a - This Website needs to be further refined for improving operational performance MPI 2005 website version. and exploitation of biding activities; - Now, there is a project to upgrade a biding news in website to the Biding Bulletin. - The Government has issued the Decree No 111/2006/ND-CP dated Sep. 29, 2006 guiding the implementation of Biding Law and the selection of construction bidder according to Construction law; 3. Establish a way to monitor the application of biding rules and bid- - A Baseline Indicator System (BIS) assessment and the development and piloting MPI 2005 - 2006 ing outcomes. of a performance measurement tool is presently underway and will be completed by Feb. 07. This will provide the framework and tools required for systematic collection of procurement data and monitoring and reporting of procurement performance and outcomes in the country. 136 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) - The National Assembly approved the Bidding Law in Nov. 2005 which is effective from 1st April 2006; 4. Establish a mechanism for receiving and responding to MPI 2005 - 2006 - On Sep. 29, 2006, the Government has issued the Decree No 111/2006/ND-CP complaints. guiding the implementation of Biding Law and the selection of construction bidder according to Construction law. 5. Finalize the Biding Ordinance (as legal document on biding - The National Assembly approved the Bidding Law in Nov. 2005 which is effective that is used consistently for all public procurement, from 1st April 2006. including consultancy selection, goods purchase and MPI 2005 - On Sep. 29, 2006, the Government has issued the Decree No 111/2006/ND-CP construction) to submit it to the National Assembly for guiding the implementation of Biding Law and the selection of construction bidder consideration and approval. according to Construction law. It is a time of implementing the Decision No 136/2201/QD-TTg dated Sep. 16, 2001 6. Design a multi-year capacity building strategy to ensure that approving the Overall Program of State Administrative System Reform for managers and technical staffs have the appropriate capacity MPI 2005 - 2007 2001-2010 period. to fulfill their required tasks and functions. - MPI has recently signed a TA Project financed by LMDG to develop and implement a biding capacity building program. 7. Develop a program to build the capacity in managing and MPI 2005 - 2006 Study and development of "Handbook for investment contract management". implementing contracts. 8. Establish guidelines and instructions to enhance the quality MPI 2005 - 2007 Study and development of "Handbook for investment contract management". of contract preparation and supervision. 9. Strengthen enforcement of contractual provisions and respect for formal processes to resolve disputes over MPI 2005 - 2007 Study and development of "Handbook for investment contract management". commercial contracts. - The MOET is conducting the implementation of two shift-class in a day, with the 10. Public targets of: 100% for preliminary level and 40% for secondary level having such expenditure in class by the school year of 2010. Education and - In 2003-2005 period, issuance of education bond with value of VND 5.197 billions Training sector 1. Instead of further increasing Pupil/Teacher Ratios, has been made for cutting off 1.921 three-shift classes and reforming 57.651 Government should give prioritization on full-day class in under-qualified classes. wider scale, reduce tuition for pupils of social objects and MOET 2005 - 2007 - Tuition fee reduction for welfare beneficiaries: the tuition fee regime under the enhance the teachers' qualifications and class infrastruc- Decision 70/1998/Q-TTg dated 31st March 1998 by the Government on the ture, particularly in the poorest localities. tuition collection and the use of tuition in public training and education facilities of national education system. MOET has submitted the Project of Tuition Adjustment to submit Prime Minister but it is not approved yet (in which the reduction of tuition for pupils of social subject is also considered). The Project of Tuition Adjustment will be finalized on Dec. 2006 and to be re-submitted to NA in order to apply it in the 2007-2008 school year (included in pilot 2. Conduct an overall review of tuition collection regime in the MTEF of education sector for 2006-2008 period). General approach is to regulate a education sector. This review should be integrated with the MOET 2005 tuition collection regime (other collection would be added to tuition payment). The priorities being developed as part of the MTEF of education Government regulates a tuition framework and the local governments will decide sector. themselves the collection level basing on actual social ­ economic situations of specific area and condition. 137 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) The Decision No 151/2006/QD-TTg dated June 29, 2006 of Prime Minister 3. Review the adequacy of prioritized rates in the budget regulating allocation norms and principles for recurrent expenditure estimates of allocation norms for education to ensure the poor and more education-training sector. In which, the recurrent expenditure allocation of education vulnerable areas could be provided with standard services MOET 2005 program in provinces and central cities will base on population of 1 to 18 years old. of education (e.g. Fundamental School Quality This allocation is gradually increased from urban to field, mountain, minority in field Level ­ FSQL). and remote, high and island areas. Such way of expenditure allocation reflects the preferential policy of Government given to poor and difficult areas. The principle of recurrent expenditure allocation for education in 2007 and the 4. Develop mechanisms to ensure that a minimum level of period of 2007-2010 is based on population. However, local governments have been budget for each student should be sufficient to deliver stan- MOET 2005 - 2006 authorized to allocate budget to training and education centers basing on the dard services of training (e.g. FSQL). number of pupils. The allocation options will be submitted by People's Committees to provincial People's Council for approval according to the Budget Law. It is expected that the spending estimation for National Targeted Program 5. Increase budget allocation for education to enable the sec- simplementation in 2007 is about VND 3.380 billions (increased by 13,8% in tor to achieve the quality target and accessible chance; and MOET 2005 comparing with 2006). The NA has approved the education expenditure budget of consider setting aside a larger proportion of total education 20% in aggregate budget expenditure for 2007 in line with the Resolution budget for targeted education programs. 37/2004/QH11 of 11th National Assembly (6th Session). - The salary of teachers has been settled in the Overall Salary Reform of the Government. The MOET, MOHA and MOF have introduced the Inter-Ministries Circular No 01/2006/TTLT-BGD&DT-BNV-BTC dated Jan. 23, 2006 instructing the implementation of Decision No 244/2005/QD-TTg dated Oct. 6, 2005 of Prime 6. Consider to link the teachers' salary improvement to their MOET 2005 - 2007 Minister on the preferential subsidy regime for the teachers who are providing responsibilities and performance. direct teaching in public education centers. - The Government has issued the Decree No 61/2006/ND-CP dated June 20, 2006 regulating the preferential policy for teachers and education managers who are working in special schools and most difficult areas of socio-economic conditions. 7. For the education and training sector, the WB recommended - The Government issued Decree 43/2006/N-CP dated 25th April 2006 on that Decree 10/2002/ND-CP at least in primary and autonomy and self-responsibility of organization, personnel size and financial secondary schools should not be implemented; instead, matters of public service agencies (replacing Decree 10/2002/N-CP dated 16th MOET 2005 - 2007 consideration should be given to delegating a flexible power Jan 2002 by the Government). to heads of schools under Decision 192/2001/QD-TTg or - Also, MOF has issued the Circula r No 71/2006/TT-BTC dated August 9, 2006 other powers. instructing implementation of above Decree No 43. 8. Give priority to the development of standard tests checking The MOET has assigned the Institute of Education Program and Strategy and its the understanding ability in important stage in order to apply MOET 2005 - 2007 functional departments to implement this policy. This task will be completed in timely them systematically for objective assessment of teaching manner (2005-2007). quality. - The MOET is asking its Financial and Planning Department and other related departments to implement this task. It will be completed in timely manner 9. Prioritize the developments of human resource management (2005-2007). skills and information systems at every level of the education MOET 2005 - 2007 - By great effort, the first stage of developing human resources management skill sector. and modern information system in Planning and Financial Department of MPI will be completed at the end of first quarter of 2007. 138 Implementation Progress Issue/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) The Decision No 151/2006/QD-TTg dated June 29, 2006 of Prime Minister 3. Review the adequacy of prioritized rates in the budget regulating allocation norms and principles for recurrent expenditure estimates of allocation norms for education to ensure the poor and more education-training sector. In which, the recurrent expenditure allocation of education vulnerable areas could be provided with standard services MOET 2005 program in provinces and central cities will base on population of 1 to 18 years old. of education (e.g. Fundamental School Quality This allocation is gradually increased from urban to field, mountain, minority in field Level ­ FSQL). and remote, high and island areas. Such way of expenditure allocation reflects the preferential policy of Government given to poor and difficult areas. The principle of recurrent expenditure allocation for education in 2007 and the 4. Develop mechanisms to ensure that a minimum level of period of 2007-2010 is based on population. However, local governments have been budget for each student should be sufficient to deliver stan- MOET 2005 - 2006 authorized to allocate budget to training and education centers basing on the dard services of training (e.g. FSQL). number of pupils. The allocation options will be submitted by People's Committees to provincial People's Council for approval according to the Budget Law. It is expected that the spending estimation for National Targeted Program 5. Increase budget allocation for education to enable the sec- simplementation in 2007 is about VND 3.380 billions (increased by 13,8% in tor to achieve the quality target and accessible chance; and MOET 2005 comparing with 2006). The NA has approved the education expenditure budget of consider setting aside a larger proportion of total education 20% in aggregate budget expenditure for 2007 in line with the Resolution budget for targeted education programs. 37/2004/QH11 of 11th National Assembly (6th Session). - The salary of teachers has been settled in the Overall Salary Reform of the Government. The MOET, MOHA and MOF have introduced the Inter-Ministries Circular No 01/2006/TTLT-BGD&DT-BNV-BTC dated Jan. 23, 2006 instructing the implementation of Decision No 244/2005/QD-TTg dated Oct. 6, 2005 of Prime 6. Consider to link the teachers' salary improvement to their MOET 2005 - 2007 Minister on the preferential subsidy regime for the teachers who are providing responsibilities and performance. direct teaching in public education centers. - The Government has issued the Decree No 61/2006/ND-CP dated June 20, 2006 regulating the preferential policy for teachers and education managers who are working in special schools and most difficult areas of socio-economic conditions. 7. For the education and training sector, the WB recommended - The Government issued Decree 43/2006/N-CP dated 25th April 2006 on that Decree 10/2002/ND-CP at least in primary and autonomy and self-responsibility of organization, personnel size and financial secondary schools should not be implemented; instead, matters of public service agencies (replacing Decree 10/2002/N-CP dated 16th MOET 2005 - 2007 consideration should be given to delegating a flexible power Jan 2002 by the Government). to heads of schools under Decision 192/2001/QD-TTg or - Also, MOF has issued the Circula r No 71/2006/TT-BTC dated August 9, 2006 other powers. instructing implementation of above Decree No 43. 8. Give priority to the development of standard tests checking The MOET has assigned the Institute of Education Program and Strategy and its the understanding ability in important stage in order to apply MOET 2005 - 2007 functional departments to implement this policy. This task will be completed in timely them systematically for objective assessment of teaching manner (2005-2007). quality. - The MOET is asking its Financial and Planning Department and other related departments to implement this task. It will be completed in timely manner 9. Prioritize the developments of human resource management (2005-2007). skills and information systems at every level of the education MOET 2005 - 2007 - By great effort, the first stage of developing human resources management skill sector. and modern information system in Planning and Financial Department of MPI will be completed at the end of first quarter of 2007. 139 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) - In Dec. 2005, the 2006-2008 MTEF report has been completed. The 2007-2009 11. Public MTEF is finalizing; expenditure in 1. Re-assess proposed estimates of future expenditure needs - The 2007 Capital expenditure plan is submitted to Prime Minister for approval, in Transport sector for the transport sector when preparing its MTEF and which budget for road accounts for 65% of total investment budget (due to the MOT 2005 - 2007 consider transferring resources from sub-sector of road strictly requirement of counterpart funds for some major ODA projects which are in transport to rail and waterway sub-sectors. implementation period in compliance with Borrowing Agreement); budget for railway counts for 10% and waterway budget is only 1% (due to having two big project to get credit from WB but being in preparatory stage. - For arrears resolution: request Prime Minister arranging the over-threshold 2. Establish a regime to keep further close control on the revenue collection or additional allocation for capital plans from 2007 to 2009 to commitments of spendings in transport sector; conduct an resolve the arrears of VND 8.000 billions (including debts of advanced capital, immediate review of all projects approved in the transport credit fund's loans and arrears of completed works). This problem has been per- sector in order to determine whether allocated budgets are MOT 2005 - 2007 mitted by Prime Minister to reschedule these arrears by the Notice No 130/TB- sufficient for their implementation or not; implement urgent VPCP dated August 21/2006 on payment of arrears for 2007-2010 period. In short measures to clear arrears in the transport sector; and time, MOT would have advanced budget to resolve these debts. accelerate equitization process of transport SOEs. - For equitization: in 2005, 100 SOEs has been equitized over planned 75 SOEs. As of Nov. 2006, 25 over planned 70 SOEs have been equitized. 3. Need to shift funds from new investment expenditure to operations and maintenance activities in the transport This issue is in the general balance of Government and also the long-term solution. sector; the recently formed Advisory Group on Road In fact, the resources provided for MOT until now could not meet their needs of both MOT 2005 - 2007 Management and Maintenance (AGRMM) should then make recurrent and capital spendings. Prime Minister has agreed the idea of setting up recommendations for longer-term solutions to road the Road Maintenance Fund. maintenance and management. - MOT has coordinated closely with the MPI and MOF to attract FDI for 4. Solve the key issues which is preventing private infrastructure development in the sector. investments in transport, such as legal framework and - MPI is studying to revise Decree No 77/CP dated June 17, 1997 and Decree No MOT 2005 - 2007 regulations; lack of implementation capacity, financial tools 62/1998/ND-CP dated August 14, 1998 to keep them consistent to Investment and domestic capital mobilization measure. Law and to create a legal corridor for attracting foreign investment in infrastructure development. - MOT has implemented the Construction Law and Decrees No 16/2005/N-CP and No 112/2006/ND-CP in the investment projects in preparation stage. However, there have some problems that some of the PMUs under MOT are permitted to 5. Reduce gradually the number of Ministerial PMU in transport manage ODA projects which are subject to be approved by Prime Minister and sector through merging them into sub-sector administrative MOT 2005 - 2007 under direct control of MOT. organizations. - After the Decree 131/2006/ND-CP dated Nov. 9, 2006 of the Government introduces the regulations of management and use of ODA, the MOT will have a legal basis to discuss in details with Donors on financial support in a way of further decentralization to its operational Departments. 12. Public The German funded project has financed the study for preparation of output-based 1. Develop tools and processes for preparation of budget esti- expenditure in Health estimation (e.g. organization of overseas study tour and seminar introducing the mation basing on the outputs that have been clearly defined sector MOT 2005 - 2007 method of performance results-based estimate preparation in Ha Noi for Ministries and carefully prioritized, rather than on the input-based and central agencies, and in two provinces (Ben Tre and Binh Duong) for officials norms that have been used in the past. from the center and south of the country. 140 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) Decision No 151/2006/QD-TTg dated June 29, 2006 regulating the norms of 2. Develop a new set of budget allocation norms that reflects recurrent expenditure allocation in 2007 for Ministries, central agencies, central both the population size and local health needs as well as provinces and cities. The People's Committees of central provinces and cities will MOT 2005 - 2007 the capacity to mobilize resources for local health set up their norms of local budget allocation, basing on the norms of allocation spendings (e.g. hospital fees and health insurance). mentioned in Decision 151 and their own conditions, and submit to provincial People's Council to decide. 3. Encourage provinces in implementing Decision 139/2002/QD-TTg on KCB Funds to help the Poor to pur- This is reflected in Decree 63/2005/N-CP dated 16th May 2005 on regulations of chase health insurance cards rather than making direct MOT 2005 - 2007 Health Insurance. The Government has decided to increase a premium contribution payment to health centers; and consider possibility to from VND 60.000/person in 2006 to VND 80.000/person in 2007. increase the insurance premium per beneficiary. - This is reflected in the Decree 63/2005/N-CP dated 16th May 2005 on 4. Monitor and evaluate closely the implementation of Decision regulations of Health Insurance and the revision and amendment draft of the 139/2002/Q-TTg (including the methods used to identify MOT 2005 - 2007 Decision 139/2002/QD-TTg to be submitted to Prime Minister. the poor), with appropriate steps to overcome any difficulties - The new poor criteria are regulated in Decision No 170/2005/QD-TTg dated July 8, happened during implementation process. 2005 and to be applied for 2006-2010 period. 5. Proceed cautiously with implementation of Decree 10/2002/N-CP in hospitals, with careful supervision to ensure that public subsidies should not be used to expand the health services to the high-income people. It is needed to set up and piloted a new regime that is more suitable to - The Decree 43/2006/ND-CP of Government which regulates the autonomy and implementation of Decree No 10/2002/ND-CP in the self-responsibility of profit-production entities on their performance accountability, hospitals of district level. (The WB Team recommended that MOT 2005 - 2007 organizational structure, personnel scale and financial issues is implementing. Decree 10 implementation would not be applied in the - Now, the spending units are required to prepare their plans for Decree No central hospitals until an appropriate monitoring mechanism 43/2006/ND-CP implementation from 2007. is established in order to ensure that it does not make any influence to the larger tasks of these hospitals). According to the viewpoint of WB, Decree No 10 should not be implemented in the commune level. It has been developing by individual step and being studied to finalize in coming 6. Give more priority to health information dissemination. MOT 2005 - 2007 time. 7. Develop a full and effective mechanism to grant Qualification Certificate to both public and private hospitals. It has been developing by individual step and being studied to finalize in coming After a certain period of performance, the disqualified MOT 2005 - 2007 time (to be registered with the Health Insurance organization). hospitals should be quitted out of the list of hospitals that are eligible to provide health services to the insured. - It has been developing by individual step and being studied to finalize in coming 8. Include all qualified hospitals into the system of health time, such as the purchase of Health Insurance Card for poors and social centers being eligible to provide services to the insured and subjects. In coming time, the KCB would be proposed to apply for health gradually shift the support method from a way of MOT 2005 - 2007 insurance of under-6 year babies and nearly-poor people; transferring health care costs to the users of health care - Social Insurance organizations have implemented the approach of signing a health services instead of the health centers. care service contract with some private health centers that have had all necessary conditions as regulated by Decree No 63. 141 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) - It has been studying to implement. MOH has cooperated with MOF to issue the Circular No 20/2005/TTLT-BYT-BTC dated July 27, 2005 on medicine biding 9. Conduct an overall review of the international experience in MOT 2005 - 2007 procedures; the area of health system purchasing. - Now, this Circular is studied for further amendment and revision in consistence to the Medicine Law issued by 2005. - MOH has cooperated with other Ministries to issue the Circular No 03/2006/TTLT- BYT-BTC-BLDTBXH dated Jan. 26, 2006 that supplements the Circular No 10. Study the international experiences in regulating the costs 14/TTLB dated Sep. 30, 1995 on pricing framework of health services; It has been of hospital services and medicine, and propose an useful MOT 2005 - 2007 gradually publishing the information of medicine prices in internet; regime to regulate the costs of major goods and services of - The Inter-Ministries Circular No 131/2006/TTLT-BYT-BTC-BLDTBXH dated Nov. health sector.. 14, 2006 revised and amended some issues regulated in the Circular No 14/TTLT dated Sep. 30, 1995 on the instruction of part collection of hospital fee. - It is planned to amend and revise the Inter-Ministeries Circular 101/2001/TTLT- 13. Public BTC-BNN&PTNT dated 20th Dec. 2001 on guidance of financial management expenditure in over state budget allocated to invest in programs of granting breeds, seeds and Agriculture and stocks being suitable to 2006-2010 period; Rural Development 1. Re-prioritize and strengthen management of expenditure - In the report of Agricultural and Rural Development Plan 2007 proposed a high sector within this sector before considering increasing its budget MARD 2005 - 2007 priority on investment, such as insuring the counterpart capital for ODA projects, proportion of expenditure fund for the sector. strengthening the dike system, project for production structure transform and project financed by Government bond issuance etc. The high priority is also given to research for science and technology improvement; - MARD is studying to seek for options to overcome the unbalance of resources in order to have most proper basis serving its preparation of MTEF of 2007-2009. 2. Improve balance between capital and recurrent This is reflected in annual budget expenditure plan and MTEF for agriculture area. expenditures, particularly spendings for irrigation should be In 2006, MARD prioritized to arrange budget for upgrade, repairing and maintenance adjusted further to meet with the maintenance costs of MARD 2005 - 2007 of irrigation projects. New construction spending has been reduced considerably, deferred construction projects; and complete, rehabilitate just about 50% total capital budget, of which 60% is invested for irrigation and adjust the irrigation systems to support diversification of development. crops and plants. - Studying and assessing the proposals in the MTEF of agriculture sector; - The Government issued Decision 220/2005/Q-TTg dated 9th Sep2005 to establish Institute of Agriculture Science of Vietnam, by which rearranging other 10 research agencies under the MARD; - Developing implementation of the Decree No 115/ND-CP on the autonomy and self-responsibility of State Science and Technology Research Organization. the Inter-Ministries Circular No 12/2006/TTLT/BKHCN-BTC-BNV and the plan of Science-Technology Management Improvement in agricultural and rural areas in 3. Increase a budget share for agricultural research, and MARD 2005 - 2007 2006-2010 period; rationalize number of research institutions. - Prioritizing investment for science-technology development making it to be the basic ground ensuring the agricultural production being productive, quality and effective with high competition (investment of science ­technology area in 2003 is VND 213 billions and expected to be VND 235,6 billions in 2007); - Continue to carry out the project of MARD on rearrangement of research units; - Official letter No 688/TTg-QHQT dated June 3, 2005 on the investment of VND 760 billions for upgrading and improving the logical facilities of Institutes and Colleagues related. 142 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) - For the period of 2001-2005, spendings for agriculture promotion increased by average of 15%/year. In the meantime, this expenditure in for period of 2006-2010 has been included in the annual expenditure plan and the MTEF of agriculture sector; - 2007 Rural and agricultural development plan of MARD has been included in the 4. Increase a budget share for agriculture promotion. MARD 2005 - 2007 priority strategy of investment in science-technology and promotion purposes; - Prime Minister approved the list of investment projects of "strengthening research capacity of agriculture, promotion and market information" under the Agriculture Development Program financed by ODA (letter 688 dated June 3, 2005); - In 2007, the sub-projects of agricultural promotion will be support with VDN 164 billions, increasing 27% in comparison with 2006. 5. Maintain proportion of budget allocation for forestry sector. MARD 2005 - 2007 It is reflected in annual expenditure plan and the MTEF of agriculture sector. Reform of SOEs management mechanism and restructure of 226 SOEs, of which 6. Reduce the burden of agricultural SOEs on public 146 are equitized and 14 are dissolved. In first 6 months of 2006, 13 SOEs have expenditure. been equitized, 4 SOEs have been sold and 2 SOEs dissolved. - The Decree No.16/2005/N-CP dated 7th Feb 2005 on authority and procedures of investment project appraisal, the MARD issued Decision 11/2005/Q-BNN dated 7th March 2005 regulating the responsibility and the disciplines applied for 7. Need to have a stricter appraisal of project; and establish violation of construction investment management and quality control of projects outcome and impact analysis of public spending in the MARD 2005 - 2007 under supervision of the MARD; agricultural sector. - MARD also issued the Circular No 18/20006/TT-BNN dated March 20, 2006 instructing some guidance to implement the Decree No 16/2005/ND-CP dated Feb. 7, 2005 on capital (i.e. state budget) management and use invested in construction projects under MARD control. The arrears in agriculture sectors have been resolved according to Decision 910/2004/Q-TTg dated 17th August 2004 by the Prime Minister. In the meantime, 8. Establish a more strict process of commitment controls in the MARD conducted to reduce the amount of arrears by restricting to create new the agricultural sector, and develop a plan to clear all MARD 2005 - 2007 projects, prohibiting carrying out a bidding for implementation of over-spending arrears and to prevent the appearance of new debts. activities, stopping temporarily the less urgent projects and focusing investment capital on completion of project with aim to keep concentrated investment and effective enhancement. - Decree 86/2003/N-CP dated 18th July 2003 by the Government regulating the functions and responsibilities of the MARD and Decision 254/2005/Q-TTg dated 13th Oct 2005 by the Prime Minister adjusting organizational structure of some units belong to MARD. The MARD issued regulations of functions and responsibility of its units, by which their autonomy and self-responsibility have been strengthened. 9. Adjust institutional functions and processes while the cen- - Carrying out the assessment of Administrative Reform Program in passing years, tral agencies should pay less attention to set up the produc- MARD 2005 - 2007 by which many administrative procedures have been reviewed, revised, eliminat- tion targets for specific goods. ed, streamlined and decentralized properly; implement "one-window" regime in some specialized management agencies; adjust the organization structure and clarify the functions of State specialized management; decentralize further the State management of agriculture and rural development to provincial level; and decentralize the tasks of management and settlement of routine works to depart- ments of MARD. 143 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) - Government Office issued official letter No 1275/VPCP-VX dated 10th March 2006 14. Public approving the list of National Target Programs for the period of 2006-2010. MPI in expenditure for 1. Continue to keep the NTPs as a complementary tool for MPI, sector cooperation with other Ministries and Branches is implementing this. National Targeted decisive capital towards the poors and consider increasing 2005 - 2007 ministries - Prime Minister issued the Decision No 210/2006/QD-TTg dated Sep. 12, 2006 on Programs (NTP) budget proportion for NTPs spending. the principles, criteria and norms of budget allocation for development investment from State budget in a period of 2007-2010. - It has been implementing; 2. Rationalize the NTPs and make a good coordination both MPI, line - Decision No 42/2002/QD-TTg dated March 19, 2002 of Prime Minister on the 2005 with each other and with main programs. Ministries management and coordination of national targeted programs has regulated a mixation and integration of these programs in the same area. 3. Need to have stronger regime to ensure that NTPs support - It is studying to revise and amend the Decision No 42/2002/QD-TTg dated March national targets, including establishment of annual MPI, line 19, 2002 of Prime Minister on management and execution of NTPs; 2005 - 2006 performance agreements based on specific outputs and Ministries - The Inter- Ministries Circular No 01/2003/TTLT-BKH-BTC dated Jan. 5, 2003 outcomes. conducted the implementation of Decision No 42/2002/QD-TTg. 4. Establish incentive mechanisms to use resources effectively and improve a sustainability of investment project through Line Ministries, - It is reflected clearly under the 135 program (Phase II); 2005 - 2006 NTPs ­ if the funds for O&M would be insufficient the MPI - It will be continuously undertaken in coming time. allocation of new investment should be cut off. - Decision 31/Q-TTg dated 6th Feb 2006 approving Fostering and Training Proposal for chairmen of People's Committees and People's Councils at commune level for the period of 2006-2010; - Decision 34/2006/Q-TTg dated 8th Feb 2006 approving Training and Fostering 5. Improve the skills and capacities of commune staffs. They Proposal for commune officials of minority communities for the period of MOHA, sector should be trained in accounting, financial and project 2005 - 2007 2006-2010; ministries management skills. - Decision 40/Q-TTg approving Training and Fostering Plan of Government officials for the period of 2006-2010; - The training courses of financial and budget managers in commune level over the country have been organized with financing support from MDTF and German funded project. 6. Increase local consultation and participation in NTPs MPI, line The 135 program (Phase II) reflected clearly the people's consultation. It will be 2005 - 2007 management and planning. Ministries continued to develop in coming time. - The Bidding Law is effective now; - The Government has issued Decree No 111/2006/ND-CP dated Sep. 29, 2006 7. Overcome the weaknesses in procurement under NTPs. MPI 2005 - 2007 instructing the Biding Law implementation and bidder selection in accordance to Construction Law. 8. Improving the monitoring and reporting procedures of - MOF issued the Circular No 86/2006/TT-BTC dated Sep. 18, 2006 instructing NTPs. The Government should undertake regular management of targeted supplementary capital from central budget to local one; evaluation of the NTPs. An audit and inspection plan should MPI, line - It is studying to revise and supplement Decision No 42/2002/QD-TTg dated March be agreed with clear regulations for sampling and reporting. Ministries 19, 2002 of Prime Minister on the management and execution of National It is needed to have a specialized agency within Targeted Programs. Government to review and report to all stakeholders on disbursement progress and expenditure control. 144 Implementation Progress Issu e/ Sector Recommendations Responsibility Time f rame (As of December 2006) MPI, line 9. Undertake regular evaluation of NTPs. To be implemented in coming time. Ministries 10. Develop mechanisms to gather and disseminate lessons learnt from local innovations and improvement in NTPs implementation and ensure that analysis and dissemination MPI To be implemented in coming time. mechanisms exist to exchange the experiences at national level and across provinces. 145 PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION REFORM PARTNERSHIP Hanoi, November 2006 I. GENERAL INFORMATION A. The Public Administration Reform (PAR) Partnership The PAR Partnership is a forum for Government and Donor agencies' cooperation to achieve the goals of the PAR Master Programme (PAR MP) 2001-2010. In 2006 it was comprised of 26 PAR projects at national and local levels, more than a dozen donor agencies, and several government ministries in charge of ODA management, and the Ministry of Home Affairs (MOHA) as the lead agency. Since its inception in 2003, the partnership has aimed to: Promote active government ­ donor information sharing and dialogue on the current status of evolving PAR issues and plans; Co-ordinate efforts to organize and manage PAR-related activities; Provide a forum for learning from PAR "pilots" and for replicating successful practices; and Prepare presentations analysing issues and findings, progress achieved as well as future plans for the mid-term and annual CG meetings. Major activities of the PAR Partnership are conducted through semi-annual and annual PAR project meetings and PAR Partnership forums, as well as ad hoc events throughout the year. Information is also shared through the PAR website and PAR Newsletter, and study-visits among PAR projects. B. Overview of PAR and the PAR Partnership in 2006 The year 2006 was in many ways a turning point for public administration reform in Viet Nam. It marked the beginning of Phase II (2006-2010) of the PAR MP 2001-2010. In 2006 the review of the PAR MP Phase I (2001-2005) was finalised and an action plan for Phase II was drawn up based on the lessons and experiences of the past five years. The broad framework for Phase II of PAR was established early in the year when the review report and an action plan for PAR 2006-10 was approved through Decision No. 94 /2006/QD-TTg of the Prime Minister, dated April 27th 2006. It included 69 tasks under the sub-programmes of i) institutional reform; ii) reform of the organizational structure; iii) development of the contingent of cadres and civil servants; iv) and public finance reform; as well as v) modernizing the state administration; and vi) PAR steering and guidance. Later in 2006 PAR gained increased prominence, especially through statements made by the Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, who indicated that the speed and effectiveness of PAR must be increased to meet the requirements of socio-economic development. In 2006 significant progress was achieved in the main component areas of the PAR MP. These include: the promulgation of new regulatory instruments on such issues as increased management free- dom and accountability of service delivery and administrative agencies and scientific institutes (Decrees 43,130 and 115); The Prime Minister's decision to require all administrative agencies to adopt quality (ISO) 146 standards; The decision to widen the One-Stop Shop (OSS) mechanism to ensure multi-level OSS and OSS in central ministries and agencies; In addition, further progress was made in the steering and management of PAR through the continued training of over 130 PAR specialists at central and provincial levels; training courses in modern management methods for hundreds of local and national officials; the continuing development of results based planning, management and monitoring systems; and implementation of new participatory tools such as surveys and focus groups. The Government has also made significant progress towards a range of new legislative instruments designed to act as the policy backdrop for future changes in PAR. These include, among others: The draft Law on the Organisation of Government focused on setting up structures of government within the wider context of governance; Upgrading the existing legislation on grassroots democracy to make it more effective; Drafting of a civil service law intended, amongst other things, to set the ethical basis for the reformed civil service. International partners of the PAR Partnership were active in supporting the Government in reaching many of these achievements through the implementation of a wide variety of PAR projects, sharing of experiences and models, and policy advice. Some key results that may be directly linked to the continuing partnership include: The visible expansion of Quality Standard System (ISO) models in public service agencies of key cities and provinces; The experiment of Performance Management Systems (PMS) in key socio-economic areas in HCMC; The introduction of Citizen Report Cards and public opinion polling to give greater voice to citizens and increase accountability in public service delivery; and The finalisation of a set of Shared Practices to widely disseminate promising models. To support Phase II of PAR programme, a number of meetings and workshops involving the Government, existing PAR donors and international experts were organized to assist with development of Government plans and directions, and to determine how donors can best sup- port the Government's PAR efforts. Both Government and donors agree that despite some promising results, PAR has not kept pace with economic reforms nor global integration. There is a consensus that a newly invigorated approach including changes in strategy is needed if the goals of the PAR MP are to be realized. This should include, amongst others, fundamental changes in the functioning of government; re-orientation of the civil service to a more service-oriented role; expanded use of tested good practices and successful pilot models; enhanced coordination of PAR efforts; and a greater role for the media and citizens. As part of a more effective PAR, the role of the PAR partnership in supporting these goals could be improved. The partnership forum has yet to be fully inclusive of all members, and more open and constructive exchanges are needed. 147 II. PAR PARTNERSHIP SUPPORT TO THE PAR MASTER PROGRAMME IN 2006 A. Support of PAR Partnership through bilateral and multi-lateral projects. The PAR Partnership in 2006 supported the PAR MP through implementation of 26 bilateral and multilateral projects, dialogue on a wide range of PAR topics, and cooperation to link PAR efforts with the SEDP and attainment of the MDGs. Through partnership activities, the donor community and Government agencies shared information, models and experiences, and continued to learn how to improve PAR planning and implementation. Several of the larger PAR projects - particularly those within MOHA, MARD and in HCMC - act as centres for sharing PAR information and best practices, while both national and local level projects were involved in pilot testing new models of PAR implementation. Results and policy impacts in 2006 for nine major areas of PAR Partnership cooperation and support are summarised below: 1) Strengthened institutional and regulatory framework Development and amendment to legal documents The PAR Partnership (through the multi-donor Project "Support to Implementation of PAR MP") has supported development and amendment to a host of legal documents in 2006, providing the Government with ideas and recommendations based on international practices to improve legislation related to PAR, including to: the revised Law on the Organisation of Government; Drafting of the Law on Associations; The Ordinance on Grassroots Democracy; A regulation for introduction of ISO; The review of three year implementation of OSS; The review of three year implementation of Decision 178 on PAR advocacy. More generally, donors have championed a concentration and orientation on improving public service delivery for the people and businesses, and this has become a major strategy for PAR in the 2006- 2010 period. 2) Strengthened central/local human resource development and civil service capacity Training monitoring and evaluation To help introduce a quality assurance system for training programs, MOHA and ADB has been working to develop a monitoring and evaluation framework for training. MOHA has been conducting several studies on assessing the quality, effectiveness and impact of training. The first drafts of proposed criteria are expected to be completed by end of 2006. Competency based training With inputs from SDC, MOHA and ADB conducted a survey on Training Need Assessment for commune leaders in the Lam Dong and Dac Lak and subsequently, piloted two competency-based training courses for chairpersons of communes in these two poor provinces in February and March of 2006. As a result of good outcomes of these pilots, MOHA and ADB agreed to replicate the competency and skills-based training programmes for grassroots level officials of other localities. 148 The NAPA project funded by Danida produced 15 tailor-made short training courses for local government managers and civil servants, which will be widely used by training institutions at both central and local levels. Results Based Management A number of training courses were undertaken by the PAR Support Project for provinces on results based planning, management and monitoring, as part of the continuing development of this critical aspect of modern public management. 3) Promoted performance efficiency and quality standards Introduction of ISO In 2006, Quality Standard Systems (ISO ­ 9000) were introduced in all 25 departments and various urban and rural districts of HCM city. A pilot model was expanded to four provinces (Nghe An, Binh Dinh, Binh Thuan and Kien Giang) under the support of the PAR Support Facility (PSF), and was experimented for the first time in the central Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD). The incorporation of this standard process into administrative systems has provided a tool to change the administrative culture via promoting accountability, transparency and service quality. These developments have contributed to the decision of the Prime Minister to institute quality management systems in all administrative offices throughout the country. Introduction of ICT Preparation work for opening of Telecentres in 13 rural poor communes was completed. To be put into implementation in early 2007, the telecentres will, for the first time in Viet Nam, open an innovative channel for farmers to better access information on agricultural production and markets. Such an ICT initiative also allows the rural poor to enhance their participation on government policy in rural planning and development. 4) Initiated result-based management in local socio-economic planning and management PMS in HCMC and other provinces Performance Management System (PMS), covering three development areas (land management, business management and social service), were piloted in three departments and two districts of HCMC and other developments are ongoing in Lao Cai and Ben Tre. PMS has proven to be a powerful public management tool to demonstrate an orientation on results in socio-economic development planning and management. Importantly, this pilot initiative has already started to bring about major cultural changes leading to improved performance, enhanced accountability and transparency, learning, and knowledge. In addition, the Strengthening Local Government Planning and Budgeting project (SLGP) and local training courses also contributed to this objective. 5) Enhanced public participation in PAR In order to promote people's participation in the reform process, several new PAR initiatives were undertaken in 2006. Introduction of Citizen Report Card system in Viet Nam Supported by SDC and WB in collaboration with MOHA, pilot Citizen Report Card surveys were conducted in four cities: Da Nang, Hai Phong, Nam Dinh and Ho Chi Minh City. The purpose of the pilots was to gather information about the quality and the outcome of service delivery as perceived by users, therefore providing an additional accountability mechanism. Ho Chi Minh City liked the 149 pilot experience of the Citizens' Report Card Survey and has decided to continue with the experience. MOHA has recently showed interest in expanding the citizens' report card survey pilot as part of the overall M&E development. Organisation of public opinion polling In order to evaluate the effectiveness and improve the quality of PAR advocacy, and more widely assess public satisfaction with the quality of public services, (as well as establish a baseline for future monitoring), the concept of independent public opinion polling was introduced in 2006 through the PAR Support Project. 6) Strengthened PAR partnerships for promoting cross departmental/provincial learning and replica- tion Shared Practices workshops Two shared practice workshops, sponsored by the PAR Support Project were organised in HCM City and Da Lat, where various experiences from the PSF and bilateral projects were discussed and ideas and information exchanged. In addition, a workshop for sharing information and practices on PAR between the provinces with PAR projects and provinces without PAR projects was held in Ho Chi Minh City. Another sharing workshop will be organized by MARD PAR projects in December 2006 with the participation of various central ministries and agencies. Development of an on-line Shared Practices system In recent months, efforts through the PAR Support Project have focused on the development of a Shared Practice System on the PAR Website. Planned to be online by the end of 2006, the System will open a new on-line avenue to further promote cross-provincial experience learning and replication. 7) Enhanced PAR MP management capacity Further development of provincial PAR specialists A major boost to PAR management capacity throughout the country was provided by additional training of the over 130 members of PAR taskforces in all provinces of the country. In addition, several study tours abroad were also undertaken for members of PAR taskforces. These efforts are part of an on-going programme of development of PAR capacity in provinces and ministries. Monitoring and evaluation (M&E) system Major development of new M&E systems for PAR began in 2006 through the PAR Support Project, incorporating results based output monitoring of PAR policy implementation; results based outcome monitoring of consequent improvement in service delivery; and monitoring of the views, attitudes and issues of the people through surveys and developments in report cards. 8) More strategic advocacy and information sharing By introducing a more strategic approach to planning and implementing advocacy measures, includ- ing research-based evaluation and use of two-way communications mechanisms, advocacy efforts in 2006 promoted understanding and support for reforms among civil servant, citizens and other key stakeholders. These included: Communication with citizens Citizen report cards and public opinion polling as mentioned in Section 4 above. Other results in this 150 area included expanded use of the PAR website for posting citizens comments on PAR, increased use of telephone "hot lines" in provinces for citizens to report administrative problems, as well as many grassroots events and initiatives involving mass organisations. Communication with and among civil servants In 2006 a readership survey was undertaken on the PAR Newsletter showing it to be highly valued by civil servants as a source of PAR information. Focus groups were undertaken on the PAR website to gauge users attitudes and make improvements. Several training courses were also undertaken by the MOHA PAR Department that included the management of advocacy information. Communication with and among PAR partners Some new mechanisms were implemented in 2006, including a monthly informal luncheon between the PAR Support Project, donors and occasional visiting speakers providing a variety of views and inputs on PAR. A new PAR E-Newsletter was approved, to begin in 2007 focused on improving information on PAR for donors and the international community. The sharing and dialogues on PAR also included a retreat with key participants from Governments, MOHA and Ministries, localities and selected donor representatives. Shared Practices system. As reported above section 6. 9) Other PAR related efforts Management of civil servants An international workshop on management of civil servants was organized by MOHA and ADB in June 2006. The workshop provided inputs and recommendations for drafting the new Civil Service Law which is expected to be submitted to the National Assembly by the end 2007. At the request of MOHA, the ADB has agreed to provide further assistance in developing a Law on Civil Service. Anti-corruption plans MARD completed a comprehensive anti-corruption plan in 2006. The plan provides an example of implementing the government's law on anti-corruption in central ministries and the integration of anti-corruption actions in PAR and other reform programmes. In addition, Sida-Sweden and the Governments of Canada, Denmark, Netherlands, and Norway have supported the Government Inspectorate anti-corruption program through the Programme "Strengthening the Comprehensive Capacity of the Inspectorate System from 2006 to 2010." The Programme began in October 2006. B. The PAR Partnership Forum In 2006, efforts continued to better coordinate, enhance, and link PAR efforts through the PAR Partnership Forum. In addition to many bilateral exchanges, the organisation of strategic partnership events (such as the international workshop on PAR in November and informal monthly donor / Support Project lunches) provided useful opportunities for the government and PAR partners to exchange information on PAR and other related issues. 2006 is an appropriate time to evaluate the effectiveness of the PAR Partnership in an effort to understand how it may be strengthened and made more useful in supporting the Government's PAR agenda in the coming years. Like the PAR MP, the PAR Partnership is broad and involves a large number of agencies, donors, projects and initiatives throughout the country. The PAR Support Project, UNDP, along with the ICD and PAR Department of MOHA have been the major facilitators 151 of dialogue across PAR, though several projects has shared their experiences and expertise with stakeholders and other PAR projects through workshops, study tours and via the PAR Newsletter and website. To date the major mechanisms for sharing information and facilitating coordination has been the annual and semi-annual PAR Partnership Forums, workshops, informal discussions, and ad hoc events. The PAR Partnership Forums are the primary venue for representatives of all PAR projects and implementing agencies to meet and share experiences, learn about any new directions for PAR, and enter into dialogue on key issues. From the perspective of government agencies and PAR projects, especially local ones, it appears that these meetings are very useful, as they provide good for sharing experiences, information and best practices. There is some sentiment, however, from donors that while they appreciate very much the Government's efforts and increased importance placed on PAR, at the same time they desire more regular and open dialogue with Government, and more information shared on PAR directions and plans. Moreover, the organization of dialogue events should me more consistent so as to improve the level of exchange of information between the government and donor partners on the progress and attainments of each other's efforts. In addition, other donors noted that the PAR Partnership has not fully reached sufficient level of policy dialogue and coordination and synergy among various PAR efforts. Donors would like to see the government more clearly inform them of its action plan for Phase II of the PAR MP, with clear priorities and sequencing. While the sharing workshop on PAR experiences between Localities with PAR projects and localiti- ies without PAR projects conducted in HCMC was a laudable effort to make the PAR Partnership, but more events like this are needed to share and deepen analysis of projects at all levels. All of these comments and suggestions will provide the basis for developing a more effective part- nership in Phase II of PAR. C. Continuing commitment and new support by donor communities In addition to the existing PAR projects funded by donor communities, several donors also have com- mitted to the new supports in PAR, including: UNDP - Like Minded Donor Group (LMDG) joint support programme UNDP and the LMDG plans to finalize in 2007 a new multi-donor PAR MP Support Programme for Phase II of PAR based on the lessons learned and experiences of the current Support Programme as well as other PAR projects. A program design team (PDT) was formed with participation from key stakeholders, including the Government, PAR Steering Committee and Secretariat, and the Donors' Representative. The formulation of the PDT and related discussions have built up mutual trust and confidence for stakeholders to participate in the future PAR program. ADB The Programme to support implementation of the Public Administration Reform Master Programme Subprogramme II was rescheduled from 2008 to 2010 to suit the Government's timetable for the Phase II of the PAR MP. To facilitate the formulation of the Programme, ADB approved a TA in March 2006. The TA will provide technical advices and help conduct close consultation for designing the assistance programme. BTC (Belgium) 152 While Phase 1 of the project "Support to Public Administration Reform Program in Can Tho City and Hau Giang province" will end by the end of 2006, Phase 2 will be implemented in Hau Giang province with focus on improving planning system at provincial, district and commune level, improving public service delivery system, and improving capacity of training institutions in providing PAR training. The Phase 2 is planned to be launched next year. NORAD (Norway) To continue support in PAR in Ninh Binh Province, in June 2006, the Ninh Binh PAR Project Phase II started with funding from the Government of Norway for the period 2006-2010. Ninh Binh Province, under the strong commitment of the leadership, has shown high interest in taking up PAR as the key wheel in the provincial reforms. PAR in Ninh Binh will be implemented at all three levels of the province with a wide agenda including changes to budgeting, planning, and service delivery. Ninh Binh Public Administrative Reform Project would also play its role of being a "test bed" for the PAR-MP 2006-2010. SIDA (Sweden) With commitment to sponsor and support from SIDA, the MOHA is formulating a project on personnel structure in the civil service; the Ho Chi Minh Political Academy is formulating a project on leadership; and Quang Tri province is formulating a project on decentralization. These projects are to be launched in 2007. SDC (Switzerland) While Phase 1 of the project "Supporting PAR in Cao Bang" funded by SDC will end by 31 Dec. 2006, Phase 2 (2007-2010) will begin, with the overall objective of strengthening local authority to achieve effectiveness, efficiency, responsiveness, accountability, inclusiveness and transparency. Phase 2 will focus on: public administrative system and procedure reform; public service delivery reform; local enterprise development; and grassroots democracy. III. LESSONS LEARNT IN 2006 AND PERSPECTIVE FOR 2007 A. Shortcomings and outstanding issues A part from the encouraging achievements obtained by PAR partnership, which make positive con- tribution to the objectives of the PAR MP, there remained some shortcomings which need to be addressed in the coming time, as follows: Lack of a results-based M&E system for analyzing PAR progress. A need for better quality of the policy dialogue: donors would like to have more substantive and more regular dialogue with the Government on PAR policy issues, particularly with regards to priorities, future directions, and linkages to other reform programmes. A need for better sharing between provinces and localities of good models and practices in PAR implementation. Two-way communication with stakeholders (including civil servants and cadres, citizens, and the media) are needed and further developed to enhance PAR implementation and increase focus on beneficiary needs and satisfaction. A need for improvement of coordination and cooperation between PAR projects and between PAR and other reform agendas. 153 These shortcoming and outstanding issues are being considered by donors and Government, and actions are already being taken to address many of them, such as the M&E system, more two-way communications with stakeholders, and improving policy dialogue. Specific plans and recommendations are outlined in the next section. B. Orientations, correction measures and expected outcomes for 2007 Since the coordination between the Government and donors, and particularly between government agencies, is crucial for ensuring the synergy of the overall PAR Master Programme, the role of the PAR Partnership will continue to be important to ensuring that the objectives of the PAR MP are reached. The Government in 2006 outlined seven areas for the donor community to consider for future support. These are: 1) Strengthening the capacity of PAR Steering Committee and Secretariat at all levels of government, especially in the coordination of PAR initiatives; 2) Consolidation of new institutions for a market economy and decentralisation, leading to greater sensitivity and responsiveness to citizens' needs; 3) Raising of the quality of public officials and civil servants for effective functioning in a market economy and with a service orientation; 4) Modernisation of administration, especially in e-government; 5) Communication of PAR imperatives, direction, and achievements with stakeholder engagement; 6) Testing and piloting of new PAR initiatives; and 7) Development of a pool of PAR experts to advise on policy direction and to help implement PAR initiatives. These seven areas will form the basis of donor support to PAR in the coming years. In addition, donors have recommended some related measures and revised orientations for 2007: Organisation of more informal information exchange events and focused workshops on specific topics to allow more open and in-depth discussions on PAR and related reform/development issues. Operationalisation of an M&E system, institutionalisation of the shared practice system and further promotion of public/mass media participation in PAR. Facilitated connection of PAR with other governance programmes (e.g. anticorruption, legal, judiciary reforms). Evaluation and dissemination of the experience of the application of a new PAR tools. Conducting some international workshops on specific and relevant topics, such as (i) decentralization, (i) improving efficiency of the public sector through e-government, (iii) development of the M&E system, and (iv) management of civil servants as inputs for developing a Law on civil service, and (v) how to organise and to manage the PAR at the local levels in rural areas. Developing an Integrated Programme of Assistance to Enhance the Implementation of the Second Phase of the PAR Master Programme supported by UNDP and the LMDG. This pro- 154 gramme intends to support enhancement of the PAR MP management capacity, strengthening of policy advice and dialogue on a range of important PAR directions, promotion of public participation and local innovation, and sharing of good practices. The new programme also introduces principles of Hanoi Core Statement of Aid Effectiveness in terms of resource harmonisation, financial management and government ownership. Whether these plans and recommendations are successfully adopted and implemented in 2007 will depend on the commitment and will of Government and donor community, enhanced capacity and resources, and better coordination and communication between the many partners working to support the PAR MP./. 155