Minister of Natural Resources and Environment Pham Khoi Nguyen of Vietnam

spelling out the government's dilemma.

Pham Khoi Nguyen was answering questions in the national assembly following a series of pollution scandals in which companies from Taiwan and other countries have been caught pumping toxic waste into rivers.

Nguyen said environmental inspectors have to inform factories of site visits in advance, and that polluting factories now face maximum fines of just 70 million dong (US$4,100) per breach of regulations.

forces during the Vietnam War, Vice Minister of Science, Technology and Environment Pham Khoi Nguyen said the two governments now needed to discuss more than just research priorities.

Looking ahead to bilateral talks on Friday, Nguyen said such cooperation should include establishing a network of communal medical centres and providing drugs to counter the effects dioxin, rehabilitation of those born with birth defects and improved infrastructure in sprayed areas.

In an interview granted to a Vietnam News Agency correspondent in the UK , Minister Nguyen said the UK pledged to share experiences with and assist Vietnam in weather forecast, enhance officials’ capability and technology and transfer communications.

now needed to discuss more than just research priorities.

birth defects and improved infrastructure in sprayed areas.