“Imagine running a city,” a diplomat muses. Now consider supporting every visiting diplomat in Hanoi. That’s the task of the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps.
The Service Department for Diplomatic Corps or SDDC plays a crucial role. It supports foreign affairs and ensures the safety of diplomatic missions. The SDDC also manages properties and provides transportation. It arranges recreational facilities for diplomats and foreign workers.
Established on June 10th, 1964, the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps has a rich history. For over 60 years, it has provided high-standard services to diplomatic missions in Hanoi. This work has greatly helped the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Vietnam’s international relations. The SDDC has earned prestigious awards for its contributions. These include the Second-class Labour Medal in 2004 and First-class Labour Medals in 2014 and 2024.
Currently, the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps employs around 500 people. Its staff includes architects, engineers, translators, interpreters, and skilled workers. The SDDC manages 115 villas in Hanoi for diplomatic residences. These are mainly in the national administrative area. They also oversee apartments in Van Phuc Diplomatic Compound and Trung Tu Kim Lien Diplomatic Compound. These locations ensure safety and security for diplomatic staff.
One notable activity is the companionship program for laborers organized by the SDDC. This program involves visits to cultural and natural sites. One such trip included a visit to Mo Mam Stream Eco-tourism area in Lang Son province. Participants appreciated the natural beauty and learned about local culture. The delegation also visited the Bac Son Uprising Museum. This museum commemorates the Bac Son Uprising of September 27, 1940. It preserves artifacts and tells stories of Vietnamese patriotism.
The Service Department for Diplomatic Corps also organizes conferences. These events inform Vietnamese laborers about government policies. A conference in 2024 discussed new salary policies. The Director General of the SDDC emphasized the department’s commitment to managing labor relations. The SDDC acts as an intermediary, advising on regulations and protecting laborers’ rights.
The SDDC’s efforts extend to cultural exchange. They organized an exchange program in Lang Son. Participants enjoyed traditional Then singing and Trau dancing. They also sampled local cuisine. These events promote the image of Lang Son to international friends.
The headquarters of the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps is located at No. 10 Le Phung Hieu street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. Its transaction name in English is Service Department for Diplomatic Corps. The SDDC continues to play a vital role in facilitating diplomatic relations. It ensures the smooth functioning of international missions in Vietnam. The SDDC stands as a crucial link between Vietnam and the world.