(VOVworld)- Deputy Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung says Vietnam prioritises the comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia. He was speaking with the media when Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc successfully concluded his official visit to Russia and attended the ASEAN-Russia Commemorative Summit.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc holds talks with his Russian counterpart Dmitry Medvedev

Mr. Trung said that Vietnam and Russia agreed to continue their high-level contacts and coordination in international forums, and improving the two countries’ cooperation. During the PM’s visit, both sides signed 9 cooperative documents in oil and gas, agriculture and investment. Both leaders agreed to increase cooperation in other areas such as education, humanity, military technology, security, tourism, and coordination within the ASEAN-Russian framework.

Russia supports the settlement of East Sea issue peacefully and in accordance with international laws and the 1982 UN Convention of the Law of the Sea and pledges continue developing oil and gas in Vietnam’s continental shelf. Deputy Foreign Minister Trung stressed the significance of the Commemorative Summit marking the 20th anniversary of the ASEAN-Russia dialogue partnership initiated by President Vladimir Putin, saying it demonstrates both sides’ awareness on the need and potential of strengthened cooperation in the new situation. The leaders approved the Sochi Declaration, affirming their commitment to moving towards a strategic partnership for mutual benefit.

Mr. Trung added during the preparatory process for the summit, Vietnam actively pushed for the ASEAN consensus, and the reflection of common concerns and Vietnam’s own interests. He noted that Vietnam put forward many proposals to effectively develop the ASEAN-Russia, meeting the needs of both sides.