Vietnam, Timor-Leste to foster ties in energy

The agreement was reached at talks between Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and his Timor-Leste counterpart Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão in Hanoi on September 4.

The two PMs concluded that relevant ministries and departments would work together to sign an agreement to encourage and protect investment, ensure food security and promote links in tourism, people-to-people exchange and oil and gas.

They agreed that the two nations would actively implement the Vietnam-Timor-Leste Framework Agreement on Economic and Technical Co-operation signed in April 2010, and hold the first session of the Inter-Governmental Committee to discuss concrete steps for co-operation.

A trade agreement was also signed by the two Governments during the visit, which the leaders say lays an important legal foundation for bilateral economic and trade links.

PM Dung said Vietnam would actively work with ASEAN member countries to back Timor-Leste's bid to join the grouping. Both sides vowed to continue working closely at multilateral forums and organisations.

They also agreed on the need to ensure maritime security, and peace and stability in the region as well.

PM Gusmão expressed his support for ASEAN's stance on the East Sea issue, which is made clear in its Six-Point Principles on the East Sea.

At a press briefing later in the day, PM Dung stressed that the visit is an important milestone in the history of Vietnam-Timor-Leste ties that gives momentum to their friendship and all-around co-operation.

The Timor-Leste PM said he hopes both countries will further co-operation in the fields they are strongest.

He also promised to make it easier for Vietnamese firms to do long-term business in his country.

(Source: Nhandannewspaperonline)