Vietnamese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Le Thi Thu Hang

At regular press conference, Hang said, ”Vietnam is closely following the regional situation and consider peace, cooperation and development in the region and the world a common goal and countries should be responsible for contributing to this goal. Our view is that nuclear power and atomic development has to serve peace and economic development with ultimate safety for human and the environment”.

Regarding China and Chinese Taiwan’s application for CPTPP membership, the spokeswoman said this is an open free trade pact with comprehensive commitment to promote economic cooperation among member economies. Their interest in the deal and expectation for membership reflect the CPTPP’s role in economic cooperation as well as regional and international economic connectivity. Vietnam is willing to share information with China about admission to the agreement and will closely consult with other members on requests for membership.

She commented on the EU strategy on Indo-Pacific cooperation revealed on September 16. Hang said: “We highly praised the role and contribution by the EU in regional peace and development. On the basis of the comprehensive cooperation partnership with the EU, Vietnam is willing to cooperate with the EU in the realization of frameworks of common interest to leverage the ASEAN's central role to promote Asia-Europe partnership and the strategic partnership between the ASEAN and the EU for peace, stability and prosperity in the region and the world.”