Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) and President of Lombardy region Attilio Fontana. (Photo: VNA)

PM Chinh hailed their visit which takes place at a time when the two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties and the 10th anniversary of strategic partnership.

Informing the PM about the outcomes of his visit, Fontana affirmed that Vietnam is an important partner of Italy. He highly evaluated Vietnam's potential for sustainable and comprehensive development with sound development policies and directions, a “human-centered" approach and an abundant young population.

The delegation also proposed measures to promote the bilateral ties in agriculture, industry, aviation, high technology, tertiary education, and more. The aim is to transform potential and opportunities into specific projects and joint activities.

The President of Lombardy said the region wishes to enhance cooperation and access to the ASEAN market through Vietnam.

Prime Minister Chinh proposed the two sides continue reinforcing economic and trade ties by leveraging their similarities and complementing each other. Italy should further open its market for products of its demand and Vietnam’s strength such as apparel, leather and footwear, agro-aquatic products.

The two sides should increase the exchange of business delegations, effectively utilise the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), and accelerate the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA). Additionally, efforts should be made to urge the European Commission (EC) to soon remove its "yellow card" warning against Vietnamese aquatic products, he said.

Affirming that Vietnam is ready to serve as a bridge to boost economic and trade ties between Italy and ASEAN, the PM suggested further boosting cooperation in culture, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, studying the possibility of opening a direct flight between Vietnam and Italy, assisting Vietnam in developing the fashion and cultural industries, as well as football, vocational training, and further partnership in digital transformation, high technology, innovation, green transformation, circular economy, renewable energy, and climate change response.

He also proposed the Lombardy region consider the possibility of establishing a partnership with a Vietnamese region, such as the Red River Delta region with Hanoi capital city, or the southeastern region with Ho Chi Minh City.

The guests vowed to actively engage with the two countries’ relevant agencies to promote coordination in various areas, especially in the fields suggested by the PM.

The Italian Ambassador to Vietnam also pledged to accelerate the opening of a direct air route between the two countries.