The ongoing APEC meetings provide “a golden chance for the country not only to promote its image to the world, but also to develop businesses”, the radio said.

Part of the accelerated preparations includes the resurfacing of almost every road in Hanoi. Down the streets decked with red banners with yellow lettering carrying messages to welcome the meeting. Around 500 student volunteers have been enrolled to help in this event.

The Japanese Mainichi newspaper on November 16 ran an article praising Vietnam’s joining the World Trade Organisation and its hosting of the 14^th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting as remarkable achievements of the country’s implementation of the renewal process and open-door policy.

Meanwhile, the Sankei newspaper of Japan saw the 14^th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting as an excellent chance for Vietnam to show the international community its renewal achievements which, the paper said, have made remarkable impression on participants at the APEC Investment Forum just held in Hanoi.

Meanwhile, Russian First Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Andrey Denisov said Vietnam is about to make a great success of hosting the 14^th APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting.

The Russian diplomat said that the colossal and well-equipped national conference centre, together with people’s hospitality, good food and perfect services were promising Vietnam a successful meeting beyond expectation.

Mr Andrey also congratulated Vietnam for its entering the World Trade Organisation – the global trade body of which Russia has not yet gained full membership.

Russia hopes to join the WTO, he said, adding that “Vietnam’s success in joining the WTO and organising the APEC meeting would offer the very good lessons for Russia”.

The Deputy Minister also highlighted the country’s great achievements in poverty reduction after 20 years of implementing the renewal process.