National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan  receives President of the France-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians' Group Catherine Deroche (Photo: VNA)

At a reception for President of the France-Vietnam Friendship Parliamentarians' Group Catherine Deroche in Hanoi on Friday, Ms. Ngan suggested that both sides increase bilateral cooperation in defense, security, science, technology, culture, education, healthcare, and the teaching of French language. She called on the French Senate to support the European Parliament’s prompt ratification of the agreements already signed with Vietnam. Regarding the East Sea issues, Chairwoman Ngan thanked France’s viewpoint on settling disputes by peaceful means, maintaining stability, security, and aviation and navigation safety. She said parties involved must abide by international law and not violate the right to exploitation in the continental shelf.

Ms. Deroche said both sides need to boost cooperation in defense, tertiary education, and especially youth exchanges.