The President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is, according to the constitution of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the head of state of Vietnam. In this capacity, the President represents the government both domestically and internationally, and maintains the regular and coordinated operation and stability of the national government and safeguards the independence and territorial integrity of the country. The President appoints the Prime Minister, Vice President, Ministers and other officials with the consent of the National Assembly. The President is furthermore the commander-in-chief of the Vietnam People's Armed Forces and Chairman of the Council for Defense and Security. The tenure of the President is five years, and a president can only serve three terms. If the President becomes unable to discharge duties of office, the Vice President or Prime Minister assumes the office of acting president until the President resumes duty, or until the election of a new president.