President Truong Tan Sang received visiting Norwegian Prime Minister Erna Solberg in Hanoi on April 17, saying that her visit will help deepen the friendship and cooperation between the two countries.

The President hailed the support that Norway has given to Vietnam in it national construction, socio-economic development and international integration.

He said the two Governments should facilitate linkages between the business communities of the two countries, and push for the early conclusion of negotiation and signing of the free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Union.

The two Governments should continue to make full use of dialogue and political-diplomatic consultative mechanisms, while maintaining close coordination at multi-lateral forums, the President said, adding that besides economic ties, cooperation in culture and education-training should also be strengthened to enhance the friendship and mutual understanding between the two peoples.

PM Erna Solberg affirmed that Norway wishes to deepen its cooperation with Vietnam, particularly in the fields of investment and trade.

She praised Vietnam for fulfilling ahead of schedule many UN Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and pledged that as Co-Chair of the MDGs Advocacy Group, she will continue to support Vietnam in completing the remaining MDGs and build Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).-VNA