Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc and his Singaporean counterpart Lee Hsien Loong agreed to seek out new directions for the two nations’ bilateral ties during their talks in Hanoi on Thursday morning
The meeting was convened within the framework of PM Lee’s official visit to Vietnam from March 21 to 24.
According to Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the two heads of government reached consensus to develop trustful political ties through the regular exchange of high-level delegations.
They highlighted that the growth of bilateral cooperation in economic matters, trade, and investment was the central pillar of the two countries’ strategic partnership.
PM Lee promised to assist Vietnamese firms in joining global markets and supply chains, adding that will consider establishing industrial parks focused on hi-technology in Vietnam.
Singapore will also work as a bridge to connect Vietnam with other countries in Southeast Asia, he continued.
Both parties consented to seeking out new and creative directions for cooperation in order to keep pace with the ongoing technological revolution.
According to the Singaporean leader, his home country will support Vietnam in developing smart cities and related technology and facilitating startups, especially those specializing science and technology.
Singapore will also encourage its connection with major Vietnamese cities such as Ho Chi Minh and Da Nang.
Regarding regional and international issues, the two premiers expressed their concern over the rise of terrorism and piracy, agreeing to enhance collaboration in anti-terrorism, cyber security, maritime security, and the prevention of trans-national crimes.
They committed to accelerate trade liberalization and participate in regional initiatives, including the ASEAN Economic Community (AEC), Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the Free Trade Area of the Asia-Pacific (FTAAP).
Both sides will coordinate with other countries in seeking alternatives for the failed Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).
With regard to the situation in the East Vietnam Sea, Vietnam and Singapore highlighted the significance of peace, stability and maritime and aviation security and safety in the seaway.
The leaders reiterated the resolution of disputes via amicable measures in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
They also affirmed the importance of implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Vietnam Sea (DOC) and the early establishment of a Code of Conduct (COC) in the maritime area.
Following the talks, the two premiers witnessed the signing ceremony of several cooperation documents.
PM Lee also met with Vietnamese Party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, State President Tran Dai Quang, and National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan on the same day.
Source tuoitrenews.vn
