United Kingdom: The UK government has signed a pact with Vietnam to enhance their alliance in tackling illegal migration and stop Vietnamese citizens from endangering their lives by choosing the difficult English Channel route.
Michael Tomlinson, the UK Minister for Countering Illegal Migration, and Senior Colonel Vu Van Hung from Vietnam’s Ministry of Public Security jointly inscribed a statement of association in London to reiterate the powerful coalition between the two countries.
Recently, an increasing number of Vietnamese expatriates reached the UK via small boats. Between 2018 and the end of 2023, there were 3,356 Vietnamese small-boat arrivals, which positions Vietnam in the top 10 countries for such appearances. Home Secretary James Cleverly spoke with his Vietnamese counterpart General To Lam earlier this week, and they consented to a bunch of potent efforts to tackle the issue.
According to the agreement, both countries committed to strengthening their partnership on deterrence communication movements to prevent treacherous journeys in small boats. They also plan to improve intelligence-sharing to tackle visa abuse and continue to facilitate the procedure for the rescue of those who carry no right to remain in the United Kingdom.
Through the pact, the UK and Vietnam governments will generate a joint measure plan to tackle human trafficking, avert vulnerable individuals from being trafficked and disrupt people trafficking. They will also maintain direct and adequate mechanisms and transmission channels to convey information and facilitate legal routes to immigration.
Michael Tomlinson said that, “Illegal migration is a global problem that requires global solutions. This agreement is an important step with a valued partner to ensure we are working in lockstep to end exploitation by people-smuggling gangs, and to save lives. Only through continued close cooperation with our international partners will we dismantle the criminal networks profiting from this evil trade, and stop the boats.”
Vu Van Hung stated that, “The UK and Vietnam share a strong strategic partnership and are celebrating 51 years of diplomatic relations. Apart from collaborations in trade, education, research, technology innovation and climate change, tackling illegal migration and human trafficking is hugely important and mutually beneficial to both countries. We are committed to working together on ensuring safe and legal routes and protecting victims of human trafficking.”
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