Vietnam, NZ trade union agencies enhance bilateral cooperation
The Vietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) and the Council of Trade Union of New Zealand (NZCTU) should cooperate in protecting each other’s guest workers and support each other at international labour forums, said VGCL President Bui Van Cuong.
President of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour Bui Van Cuong (right) presents a gift to Secretary of the Council of Trade Union of New Zealand Sam Huggard
Hanoi (VNA) – TheVietnam General Confederation of Labour (VGCL) and the Council of Trade Unionof New Zealand (NZCTU) should cooperate in protecting each other’s guestworkers and support each other at international labour forums, said VGCLPresident Bui Van Cuong.
At a reception for NZCTU Secretary Sam Huggard on November 21,Cuong briefed his guest on the VGCL’s structure with more than 10.5 millionmembers.
During 2018-2023, the confederation will focus on protecting legaland legitimate rights and interests of trade union members and labourers, whilerevamping its operation, developing the contingent of trade union officials andstepping up communications work, he said.
It is expected to admit at least 2 million members during theperiod, according to the official.
He said the Vietnamese National Assembly has passed theComprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP)to which New Zealandis also a member.
The deal is expected to generate both opportunities and challengesfor trade union orgnisations, forcing the Vietnamese trade union organisationto reform, he said, adding that the confederation is working to attract moremembers.
For his part Huggard, said during their stay in Vietnam, the New Zealand delegation attended aworkshop on trade and decent work held by the VGCL, the International TradeUnion Confederation – Asia Pacific (ITUC-AP) and the German foundation Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung.
The visit aims to connect the NZCTUand the VCGL, he said, stressing cooperation possibilities between the twosides in protecting employees.-VNA
Vietnam and New Zealand on October 4 agreed to continue facilitating trade and investment between the two countries and providing broader access for agricultural products to each other’s market.
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In an document issued on August 5, the PM emphasised the need to stablise living conditions for people hit by floods, landslides, and flash floods in late July and early August in northern and north-central provinces, especially Dien Bien, Son La, and Nghe An which suffered some of the worst damage.
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President of the Vietnam General Confederation of Labour Bui Van Cuong (right) presents a gift to Secretary of the Council of Trade Union of New Zealand Sam Huggard 
