Vietnam, China conduct joint drill on counter-illegal border crossings

Lao Cai, October 29 (VNA) – The Border Guard Command of Vietnam’s northern province of Lao Cai and the Honghe border management unit in China’s Yunnan province jointly held a drill on preventing illegal border crossings on October 28.

The drill, built on the experience of the joint anti-terrorism exercises in 2015 and 2016, focused on inspecting suspicious vehicles, conducting joint border patrols and law enforcement, sealing off border areas, and apprehending violators. It particularly aimed to enhance the coordination mechanism for cross-border law enforcement and to apply professional measures to improve the quality and effectiveness of bilateral border management cooperation. To direct and coordinate the exercise, the two sides established a joint command, with forward command units, and simulated scenarios related to illegal entry and exit activities.

Congratulating the forces on the successful exercise, Vice Chairman of the Lao Cai People’s Committee Ngo Hanh Phuc stressed that the drill was well organised and realistic, demonstrating a high level of professionalism, mettle, responsibility, and operational coordination. He also highlighted the swift and flexible handling of situations, which was in line with Vietnam's foreign policy principles, including defence diplomacy, while respecting the sovereignty and independence of each nation.

The results of the exercise reflect the strengthened solidarity, mutual trust, and friendly cooperation between the border guard forces of Vietnam and China, the official said. The successful joint drill marked a step forward in bilateral coordination in border protection and checkpoint management, contributing to mutual understanding, trust-building, and the consolidation of peace, stability, and development along the shared border.-VNA