(VOVWORLD) -Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue has met with Brazilian top leaders to discuss methods to boost cooperation between the two countries.
 Deputy PM Vuong Dinh Hue and Brazilian President Michel Temer. |
Mr. Hue told President Michel Temer on Monday that Vietnam appreciates Brazil’s position and role in the global arena, and emphasized the importance of maintaining ties with the Latin American country. President Temer spoke highly of Mr. Hue’s visit and said he hopes that Vietnam will serve as a bridge, linking Brazil with the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Meeting with Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes Ferreira, Deputy PM Hue said that the time-honored friendship, built on trust and political respect, functions as an important base to deepen the bilateral comprehensive partnership.
The two sides pledged to create a framework agreement on technical cooperation and information sharing regarding tariffs, as they look towards the signing of a double taxation avoidance pact.
They underlined the importance of ensuring peace, stability, security, and safety relating to aviation and navigation in the East Sea, and solving disputes through peaceful means that adhere to relevant international law. They also voiced their backing for the early formation of a Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) created by ASEAN and China.
 Deputy PM Vuong Dinh Hue holds talks with Foreign Minister Aloysio Nunes Ferreira, July 2, 2018. |
During meetings with Brazil’s trade and agricultural ministers, Deputy PM Hue suggested both countries facilitate market access for each other’s key commodities, such as Vietnam’s Tra fish and shrimp, and Brazil’s beef and fruit. He proposed Brazil not levy high duties on Vietnamese stainless steel, and to recognize Vietnam’s market economy status. Minister of Industry, Foreign Trade and Services Marcos Jorge suggested the two countries hold negotiations toward the signing of an investment protection agreement. He also pledged to push for the Brazilian Government’s recognition of Vietnam’s market economy status this year.
Both sides signed several cooperation agreements, including a governmental agreement on aviation cooperation, a memorandum of understanding on agricultural cooperation and another on cooperation between the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, and the Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency.