Vietnam and Timor Leste have agreed to enhance ties in politics, economics-trade-investment, agriculture-forestry-fisheries, energy, information-communications, and education and training.

The agreement was reached at the talks between Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and his Timor Leste counterpart Kay Rala Xanana Gusmão in Hanoi on September 4. The talks took place following a welcome ceremony on the morning of the same day.

The two PMs shared the view that relevant ministries and departments will work together to promptly sign an agreement on investment encouragement and protection, ensure food security and promote links in oil and gas, tourism and people-to-people exchange.

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

The leaders hailed the signing of the trade agreement between the two Governments during the visit, saying that it will lay an important legal foundation for bilateral economic and trade links.

Discussing regional and global issues of mutual interest, both sides vowed to continue working closely at multilateral forums and organisations.

Vietnam will actively work with ASEAN member countries to back Timor Leste’s bid to join the grouping, PM Dung noted.

Moving on to the East Sea issue, they agreed on the need to ensure maritime security and safety, and peace and stability in the region as well.

PM Gusmão expressed his support to ASEAN’s stance which is made clear in its Six-Point Principles on the East Sea.

Following the talks, both host and guest witnessed the signing of a trade agreement between the two Governments.

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

The Timor Leste PM said he wishes both countries will further cooperation in fields of their strength.

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