PM Dung's tour to France, US a success

On the occasion, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh granted an inclusive interview to the journalists who accompanied the Vietnamese delegation.

Regarding the outcomes of PM Dung's time in France from September 24-26, FM Minh said the visit was of significant importance, as it coincides with the 40th anniversary of the Vietnam-France diplomatic ties and because it marks a historical milestone, with a strategic partnership agreement signed by the two leaders.

The new strategic partnership is evidence of the strong political will of the leaders of both countries to deepen their traditional friendship, historical attachment and multifaceted co-operation, he said.

The establishment of a strategic partnership with France also contributes to enhanced co-operation between Asia and Europe, and between ASEAN and the European Union in particular, the diplomat said.

FM Minh expressed his deep belief that the strategic partnership, coupled with the high political resolve of the two countries' leaders and great efforts by their institutions, will enhance the fine friendship and multifaceted co-operation between Vietnam and France.

Following the visit to France, PM Dung was in the US from September 25-27 to attend the general debate of the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly.

During his stay in the US, PM Dung also held bilateral meetings with representatives of the US administration and American businesses. He also met with the leaders of several international financial and monetary organisations.

FM Minh described PM Dung's participation in the general debate of the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly in New York as an important diplomatic activity towards the realisation of Vietnam's proactive foreign policy and international integration.

At the session, the Vietnamese Government leader delivered a speech that called on leaders of UN member states to strive for a world free from war and hunger for the benefit of all of humanity.

The PM reiterated Vietnam's commitment to taking part in the United Nations peacekeeping missions, as well as the country's readiness to contribute to the common tasks of the international community in an active, constructive and responsible manner.

FM Minh said that the UN Secretary-General and leaders of the UN agencies had spoken highly of Vietnam's achievements realising the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), especially those on poverty reduction.

They affirmed to continue to support Vietnam during its national socio-economic development process, he added.

At the meetings with PM Dung, representatives of the US administration expressed their wish to strengthen practical co-operation with Vietnam in specific areas - especially economics, trade and investment - in line with the two countries' comprehensive partnership.

At a dialogue with PM Dung, US business leaders also showed their interest in Vietnam's current economic policy and in the country's business and investment environment, Minh said, evidence that Vietnam continues to be an attractive destination for American businesses.

FM Minh said PM Dung's tour to the US to attend the general debate of the 68th session of the United Nations General Assembly was a success, contributing to the enhancement of Vietnam's image abroad and its international position.

(Source: Nhandannewspaperonline)