The National Maritime Bureau under the Ministry of Transport held a meeting in Hanoi on May 4 to mark its 45^th anniversary and receive the title “hero of the people’s armed forces”.

Addressing the meeting, Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai emphasised that during the anti-US war of resistance, the maritime sector played an important role in guarding the northern flank and assisting the southern frontline. During the renewal process, it also played a key role in the national economy. Mr Hai expressed his belief that the sector will uphold its tradition and strength to fulfill its tasks set by the Party and State.

On behalf of the Party and State, State Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan presented the title “hero of the people’s armed forces to the maritime sector”.

Currently, Vietnam has 49 seaports and 42km of wharves. The amount of goods transported via ports has increased by 13 percent per year. In 2009, it reached more than 251 million tones. Many major projects have been carried out such as Hai Phong international port, Hiep Phuoc-Nha Be and Cai Mep-Thi Vai ports.

In addition, the sector has consulted with the Government about joining 16 international treaties and signing maritime transport agreements with 21 countries and agreements with 22 countries to recognise the qualifications of its crew members.