Việtnam’s 16th National Assembly Convenes First Session in Hanoi
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: The first session of Việtnam’s 16th National Assembly (NA) formally commenced on Monday morning at the National Assembly House in Hanoi, marking the beginning of a new legislative term for 2026–2031.
The day’s proceedings began at 7:00 a.m. with National Assembly deputies paying tribute to national heroes by laying wreaths at the Hồ Chí Minh Mausoleum and the Martyrs’ Memorial.
The opening sitting, held at Diên Hồng Hall, was scheduled to start at 8:00 a.m. and broadcast live on national channels, including Vietnam Television (VTV1) and the Voice of Vietnam (VOV1). The session opened with a flag-raising ceremony and introduction of delegates, followed by an address from the outgoing National Assembly Chair. General Secretary of the Communist Party, Tô Lâm, was also slated to deliver remarks.
During the session, the National Election Council presented a comprehensive report on the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly and People’s Councils for the 2026–2031 term, along with the confirmation of deputies’ credentials.
Subsequently, lawmakers convened in a closed session to deliberate on the composition of the NA Standing Committee for the new term. The outgoing Standing Committee submitted proposals and draft resolutions, which were discussed and later adopted through electronic voting following revisions.
The session also featured the presentation and approval of nomination lists for key leadership positions, including the NA Chair, Vice Chairs, and members of the Standing Committee. The election of the National Assembly Chair was conducted by secret ballot, after which the newly elected Chair took the oath of office and delivered an inaugural address.
In the afternoon, deputies resumed private sessions to elect Vice Chairs and Standing Committee members. Draft resolutions were presented, debated, and approved to finalize the appointments.
Further nominations were made for critical posts, including the Chair of the Ethnic Council, heads of NA committees, the State Auditor General, and the Secretary General of the National Assembly, who also serves as head of the NA Office.
The inaugural session underscores Việt Nam’s commitment to strengthening its legislative framework and governance mechanisms for the upcoming term.
