At the reception (Photo: VNA) Mai expressed his belief that Philipe’s visit willopen up many cooperation opportunities for businesses of the two countries and the two cities in particular.
Briefing the guest on HCM City’s socio-economicdevelopment, the official said the city always attaches importance tointernational cooperation, especially with Europe, including France.
Navigation, seaport and export-import are among the focusesof the southern metropolis, he said, adding that they play a crucial role inlocal economic development.
Apart from the existing seaports like Tan Cang and Saigon,HCM City is aiming to build an international entrepot, according to the official.
Mai used the occasion to thank Philipe for invitingHCM City to join the International Association of Cities and Ports, andinformed the guest about the locality’s activities towards green, sustainableeconomic development.
HCM City has mobilised resources for infrastructuredevelopment, attracted both domestic and foreign investments, reformed administrativeprocedures and promoted high-quality personnel training, towards becoming aninternational centre of finance and trade, he said.
Mai stressed the importance of educationalcooperation, and noted that HCM City wishes to cooperate with enterprises in France and Le Havrein culture, health care, personnel training, and biologicalresearch.
For his part, Philipe said he hopes to intensify cooperation,cultural exchanges, and trade promotion between the cities. He affirmed that many French experts, businesses and investors are keen to cooperate with HCM City, particularly in fields suggested by the city's leaders.
Philipe suggested HCM City continue withadministrative reform to raise the efficiency of investment attraction, facilitateoperations of businesses, and contribute to economic development.
Earlier, Philipe and his entourage visited a number ofseaports and schools in HCM City./.
VNA
