President Truong Tan Sang received the visiting Speaker of the Upper House of Myanmar, Khin Aung Myint, in Hanoi on June 22.

At the reception, the Vietnamese State leader spoke highly of the important achievements the Myanmar people have recorded during their national construction and development process, especially successfully organising their parliamentary by-elections in April.

Sang said he was extremely pleased at the fine developments in friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Myanmar in the recent past.

He suggested that both countries continue to exchange visits at all levels and diversify relations to enhance mutual trust and understanding and seek out effective ways of boosting bilateral ties.

The President said he hopes both legislative bodies will soon set up a Parliamentary Friendship Group to strengthen friendship and mutual understanding.

Vietnam and Myanmar should set out specific ways of boosting economic cooperation, he said, adding that besides economics, the two countries need to promote ties in other fields, including culture and tourism.

He also suggested that both states step up cooperation at regional and international forums.

President Sang said he believed that Myanmar will successfully carry out its duties when it takes over the ASEAN Chair in 2014.

Speaker Khin Aung Myint praised the positive changes in Vietnam in recent years, saying he was sure that Vietnam will maintain a healthy macro economy and ensure social welfare.

Host and guest discussed Myanmar ’s experiences in reducing poverty levels, maintaining economic growth and political stability while strengthening its foreign relations.-VNA