Viet Nam treasures strategic partnership with the UK: Deputy PM
VGP – Deputy PM and FM Pham Binh Minh affirmed that Viet Nam values and wishes to further accelerate its strategic partnership with the United Kingdom (UK), during a reception for UK Ambassador to Viet Nam Gareth Ward in Ha Noi on September 19.
The deputy PM congratulated the diplomat on his appointment as the new UK Ambassador to Viet Nam, especially as the two countries are celebrating 45 years of their diplomatic ties and bilateral relations are growing finely across all fields.
He emphasized that Viet Nam highly appreciates the UK’s position and role, and wants to boost bilateral cooperation in the areas of economics, trade, investment, finance, culture, education, defence and security.
Deputy PM Minh suggested both sides strengthen coordination and mutual support at international and multilateral forums, while supporting the development of ties between the UK and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
He expressed his belief that with his abundant experience, Ambassador Gareth Ward would have a successful tenure in Viet Nam, thus contributing to facilitating the Viet Nam-UK strategic partnership.
For his part, Gareth Ward affirmed the UK’s high appreciation for Viet Nam’s position and role, stating that the two countries share the strategic vision and stance of backing free trade, while enjoying huge potential to enhance bilateral cooperation across various spheres, especially economics, finance, education and defence.
The diplomat voiced his expectation that the two sides would move forward the signing of a bilateral free trade agreement in the future, as well as strengthen coordination at the United Nation Security Council and in regional and international issues.
He asked Viet Nam to support the development of partnership between the UK and ASEAN, while pledging his efforts to further accelerate the UK-Viet Nam relations in the time ahead.
By Vien Nhu
http://news.chinhphu.vn