Foreign journalists and news organisations will be allowed to continue press activities providing that they comply with Vietnamese laws, according to a new Government decree which will take effect from December 20 this year.

It has five chapters and 27 clauses regulating the respective responsibilities of the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Information and Communication, Culture, Sport and Tourism, and the municipal and provincial people's committees.

All violators will be fined according to the current provisions of Vietnam laws. Non-resident journalists working in the country must have their Press Permit issued by the Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs. To receive the permit they must apply to the ministry or an overseas Vietnamese consular office at least ten working days before coming to Vietnam. The authorities will reply with their final decision during that time.

In addition, the validity of a Foreign Journalist Card will be increased from six to 12 months in accordance with the duration of their visas. To apply for a card, resident journalists must send or hand a dossier to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Foreign journalists are allowed to temporarily import and re-export necessary devices like cameras and recorders. They are also allowed to import, export, install and use equipment to receive and transmit news directly through satellite. They have permission to transmit videos overseas through the national telecommunication network in accordance with the law.

In order to circulate publications (such as newspapers, magazines and pamphlets) foreign offices or organisations must send a written request to the Ministry of Information and Communications and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for notification. The publications must be in line with the Vietnamese press and publishing laws, and other relevant provisions.

(VNA/VOV Online)