Vietnam: Disruptions expected during nuclear summit in Hanoi Feb. 27-28 /update 3

Event

Vietnamese authorities implemented heightened security measures in central Hanoi on Sunday, February 24, in the vicinity of the Government Guest House and Metropole Hotel where the US and North Korean leaders will hold a second nuclear summit on Wednesday, February 27, and Thursday, February 28. A large contingent of Vietnamese soldiers were reportedly conducting sweeps and installing metal detectors and other security apparatuses in the Hoàn Kiếm district on Sunday morning (local time).

Chairman Kim Jong-un will arrive by train in Dong Dang on Monday, February 25, and subsequently travel to Hanoi by car. Authorities ordered the partial closure of roads along the motorcade route from 19:00 on February 25, and fully ban traffic from 06:00 to 14:00 on Tuesday, February 26. 

Large diplomatic delegations, security teams, and a press corps will accompany the leaders. Heightened security measures, including checkpoints and increased security personnel, are expected ahead of and during the summit. Associated disruptions, including road closures and increased traffic congestion, are similarly likely. 

Context

US President Donald Trump and Chairman Kim met in Singapore in June 2018 to discuss bilateral relations and the North Korean nuclear program. It was the first-ever meeting between the leaders of the two countries.

Advice

Individuals in Hanoi are advised to stay abreast of the situation and anticipate heightened security measures, associated disruptions, and an increased demand for hotels.