Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc at the opening ceremony of the ASEM 12 (Photo: VOV)

In his opening speech, President of the European Council Donald Tusk praised ASEM’s role as a leading cooperation and dialogue mechanism between the two continents, helping to promote multilateral cooperation and a law-based international order. Themed “Asia and Europe: global partners for global challenges”, ASEM 12 will design cooperation orientation and vision for the new decade.

During an earlier meeting with Chinese PM Li Keqiang, Mr. Phuc spoke highly of new progress in bilateral relations and China’s goodwill in enhancing cooperation. He suggested that both sides maintain regular visits and meetings and implement measures to ensure sustainable trade while reducing Vietnam’s trade deficit with China and expanding the market for Vietnamese goods, especially farm produce.

PM Li said he hopes both countries will increase cooperation for mutual benefits in all areas, control and properly handle differences, maintain peace and stability in the East Sea, and promote the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership  between the 2 countries.