Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and former US Secretary of State John Kerry (Source: VNA)

At the reception, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc lauded former US Secretary of State John Kerry’s efforts for bilateral ties. He said he hoped that Kerry and partners will make further contributions to Vietnam – US ties.

Kerry, for his part, said the delegation includes those who previously urged the US to lift embargo on Vietnam and promote partnership between the two countries. As Vietnam is facing climate change impact in the Mekong Delta and shortage of power for development, he said he knows banks and international organizations that are interested in investing in clean power in the country. Therefore, he wished to receive support from the Vietnamese Government, ministries, agencies and localities in the regard.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and US former Ambassador to Vietnam Pete Peterson (Photo: baochinhphu.vn)

The same day, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosted a reception for US former Ambassador to Vietnam Pete Peterson. Peterson expressed his delight over the thriving ties between the two countries, especially after the US’s removal of trade embargo on Vietnam. There are several investors showing their interest in the operation of the Hanoi-Hai Phong expressway, he said, adding that he has made efforts to seek corporations who have strong financial capacity and considerable experience to invest in the project. PM Phuc spoke highly of Peterson’s thorough understanding about Vietnam, asking him to send documents to competent authorities in Vietnam to discuss his initiatives further.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (right) and President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation  Douglas Foo (Photo: VNA)

Also on Friday, the Prime Minister met with President of the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) Douglas Foo. Prime Minister Phuc lauded Singapore’s high indexes in innovation, creativity and productivity, and expressed his hope for stronger cooperation with the country in these fields. The PM highlighted the guest’s talks on important issues regarding innovation and creation in which Singapore has experience. He also welcomed the SMF President’s initiatives for cooperation in this sphere between Vietnam and Singapore.