Ahern: Ireland to open diplomatic mission in Vietnam

The Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has signalled his intention that Ireland is to open a diplomatic mission in Hanoi, Vietnam.

Mr Ahern is attending the fifth Asia/Europe summit which is taking place in Hanoi.

Bertie Ahern also wants to start a programme of development co-operation involving Vietnman, following a positive meeting with the country's Prime Minister.

It is the Taoiseach's a second day of meetings in south east Asia and the Arab Gulf.