A high-ranking delegation from Hanoi led by Secretary of the municipal Party Committee Pham Quang Nghi is visiting Australia to further develop cooperation with the country.

During the visit, as part of activities celebrating the 40 th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic ties, the Hanoi guests had working sessions with senior officials of New South Wales and Victoria States.

During the meetings, Nghi spoke highly of the fine development of the bilateral relationship over the past four decades, especially since the two sides signed the Comprehensive Partnership Agreement in 2009.

He noted that the two countries still see great potential for their future cooperation.

The Hanoi leader applauded the Australian Government’s assistance for development projects in Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general.

Australia is now Vietnam ’s eighth largest trade partner and ranks 21 st among foreign investors in the country, he said, adding that it is also an attractive destination for Vietnamese students.

Meeting with New South Wales Governor Marie Bashir on September 15, Nghi spoke highly of Australian experience in urban planning and development, especially in Sydney .

Marie Bashir expressed her deep love towards Hanoi and Vietnam , informing that she will visit Vietnam this November.

While working with Melbourne Mayor Robert Doyle on September 16, the Hanoi leader hailed Australia ’s success in preserving cultural diversity and relic sites. The host also praised Vietnam ’s efforts in tourism development.

Responding to Vietnam News Agency reporters’ queries, Nghi highlighted Australia ’s position in Vietnam ’s foreign policy, revealing that his visit aims to further intensify the multilateral cooperation between the two countries and call for more investment in Vietnam .

The delegation is scheduled to leave for New Zealand on September 17.-VNA