Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung has expressed his wish that Norway will continue granting official development assistance (ODA) to Vietnam in order to help the country deal with climate change and prevent natural disasters.

Receiving newly-accredited Norwegian Ambassador to Vietnam Siren Gjerme Erikse in Hanoi on November 4, the PM said he is delighted at the development of bilateral cooperation over the past time and affirmed both sides’ determination to deepen it in the future.

Stressing great potential for Vietnam-Norway cooperation, he suggested the two countries further ties in politics-diplomacy, economy-trade-investment, science-technology, health, education, culture and tourism.

He spoke highly of Norway ’s active role in accelerating negotiations for the Europe-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement, expressing his belief that once the deal is signed, it will pave the way for the two nations to promote their trade and investment.

The Vietnamese Government always supports and create favourable conditions for the ambassador to fulfill his missions in Vietnam , PM Nguyen Tan Dung said.

In reply, Ambassador Siren Gjerme Erikse pledged to do his utmost to coordinate with Vietnamese ministries and agencies in implementing agreements reached between the two countries.

She said her country attaches importance to fostering cooperation with Vietnam in coping with climate change and sea level rises.

She also called for Vietnam’s support for Norway in promoting its cooperation with ASEAN countries.-VNA