(VOVworld)- Vietnam and France are celebrating the 40^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties this year. Speaking to reporters on the occasion, Deputy Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son said that the cooperation between the two countries was a model for East-West cooperation, between a leading European country and a dynamically developing Southeast Asian country.

French President Francois Hollande (left) meets Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung in Paris yesterday. — VNA/VNS Duc Tam

Son said that this year, the two countries have organized numerous activities and increased delegations exchanges to mark the event. The highlight of these events was Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s official visit to France, during which the two countries officially set up the strategic partnership demonstrating their determination to further deepen bilateral ties for mutual benefit. Mr. Son says:“The two countries’ Joint Statement on the Strategic Partnership reflects the comprehensive development of bilateral ties in all fields ranging across politics, diplomacy, economics, trade, investment, science and technology and national defense. In addition, the statement affirms the increasing international prestige and role of Vietnam and France. The establishment of a strategic partnership shows the two countries’ recognition of each other’s roles and their commitment to support each other in their respective national development”.

Mr. Son said that in the near future, France would strengthen cooperation with Vietnam and invest in major areas. France also pledged to grant assistance aid for Vietnam, even after 2016. France is currently the leading European donor towards Vietnam’s industrialization process.