(VOVworld) – Vietnam attaches importance to improving friendship and cooperation with traditional friends, including Norway, said Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung. At talks with Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg, who is on a 3 day visit to Vietnam, Prime Minister Dung expressed hope that the visit would contribute to lifting bilateral ties to new heights.
Both leaders agreed that the two countries have many potentials and advantages in expanding cooperation for mutual benefit. They agreed to enhance exchange visits at all levels, continue implementing existing political dialogue mechanisms, and create favorable conditions for businesses and investors of both countries to boost cooperation.
Photo: norwaynews.com
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They agreed to enhancing cooperation in training activities between universities and research centers in both countries, especially in science and technology, oil and gas, energy, aquaculture, agricultural and environmental management, as well as boosting cultural, sports, and tourism exchanges in anticipation of the 45th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties in 2016.
Vietnam and Norway pledged closer cooperation in multilateral forums and international organizations. Vietnam hailed Norway’s efforts in boosting cooperation with ASEAN, especially in both sides’ advantageous fields including maritime security, climate change, and water security.
The Prime Ministers discussed several international issues of mutual concern. Regarding the East Sea issue, they shared concerns over recent developments in the area, highlighting the need to settle disputes through peaceful measures and in accordance with international law, the UN Charter, and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea. They called on related parties to soon build a Code of Conduct to contribute to ensure peace, security, navigation and aviation freedom, safety, and trade in the East Sea.
Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung spoke at a press briefing following talks: "The Vietnamese and Norwegian governments will strive to promote early conclusion of negotiations and signing of an FTA between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) in 2015. This agreement is expected to bring about cooperation opportunities and boost friendship relations between Vietnam and Norway."
The same day, Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg was also received by President Truong Tan Sang and National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung. She also attended an international seminar entitled “From Millennial Development Goals to Sustainable Development Goals: inheriting Vietnam’s achievements in the post 2015 development period”.