The AFP on Oct. 7 quoted a Germangovernment source as saying that Germany "is a very strong supporter"of a free-trade deal between Vietnam and the EU, adding thatVietnam has a very dynamic growth rate, which is of great interest toGerman firms.
The sources also said Germany andVietnam have long enjoyed close relations and Germany 's interest inVietnam is much greater than in the other countries in the region.
After her trip to Vietnam , Merkel will travel to Mongolia in a bidto step up ties between Europe 's top economy and the two fast-growingAsian countries. She will be accompanied by business leaders who areeying up opportunities in the two Asian economies./.