Minister Kang Kyung-hwa Talks with Vietnamese Foreign Minister: "Strong Regret over Excessive Entry Restrictions"

[Asia Economy Reporter Lim Cheol-young] On the evening of the 28th, Foreign Minister Kang Kyung-wha held a phone call with Pham Binh Minh, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Vietnam, expressing strong regret over Vietnam's excessive entry restrictions on Koreans in relation to the novel coronavirus infection (COVID-19).

Minister Kang stated, "Our government is making all-out efforts with transparent and proactive measures at the whole-government level to prevent the spread of COVID-19," adding, "Vietnam, a key partner in the New Southern Policy, is imposing excessive entry restrictions on our citizens, causing great disappointment within Korea."

Minister Kang particularly pointed out, "Vietnam's measures excessively restrict even essential exchanges between the peoples and businesspersons of the two countries, which not only places a considerable burden on Korea-Vietnam relations but also does not benefit the medium- to long-term interests of both countries," urging for the "prompt restoration of the visa-free entry policy."

Furthermore, he requested, "We ask the Vietnamese authorities to make special efforts to ensure that our citizens do not receive unfair treatment during the implementation of these measures and that the rights and interests of Koreans residing and staying in Vietnam are protected."

In response, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Minh asked for understanding, stating that the measures were inevitably taken to prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Minister Minh said, "The suspension of visa-free entry for Koreans is a temporary measure taken due to the COVID-19 situation," and added, "We will actively cooperate to ensure that visas can be issued as soon as possible to Koreans who need to visit Vietnam for purposes such as family visits or business."

He further added, "As Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, I will also do my best on the Vietnamese side to ensure the safety and health of Koreans residing and staying in Vietnam."

Meanwhile, both ministers agreed that based on the friendly and trusting relationship between the two countries, they can overcome the current situation together and decided to continue close communication between the two governments.