Vietnam consistently creates all possible conditions for Norwegian businesses to help them intensify their presence in Vietnam, particularly in the fields of ship-building, hydroelectricity, renewable energy and oil and gas exploitation, said Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan.

Doan made the statement at her March 19 talks with Crown Prince of Norway Haakon Magnus, who is on his first visit to Vietnam from March 18-20.

She confirmed that in its foreign policies, Vietnam has always valued its ties with North European countries, including Norway.

Meanwhile, Haakon said he was impressed by Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements and its increasing role in the region and the world. He declared that the Norwegian royal family and government always pay attention to boosting Norway’s partnership with Vietnam.

The two sides expressed their satisfaction at positive developments in the Vietnam-Norway friendship and multifaceted cooperation, especially in politics, diplomacy, economics, investment, education and culture.

They agreed to maintain delegation exchanges and continue working together at international and multi-lateral forums, including at the United Nations, the Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM) and ASEAN.

The Norwegian prince thanked Vietnam for its support in strengthening Norway’s relationship with ASEAN and pushing for the approval of a joint statement on the ASEAN-Norway partnership.

In his position as an ambassador in charge of boosting Norway’s trade and investment abroad, Crown Prince Haakon promised to back economic ties between his country and Vietnam.

The presence of more than 50 leading businesses accompanying him during this visit reflects the country’s determination to expand the economic, trade and investment ties with Vietnam, he added.

Vice President Doan thanked Norway for providing official development assistance for Vietnam, saying that the capital has importantly contributed to the country’s socio-economic development and international integration.

The crown prince said that Norway will maintain its ODA for Vietnam, with focus on climate change adaptation, forest protection, natural resources management and education.

He plans to meet President Truong Tan Sang and Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung, and chair a round-table conference with the two countries’ businesses on an free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association.-VNA