Ho Chi Minh City is interested in being twinned with the capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava, to promote all-around cooperation between the two nations, said Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan.

During his reception for Slovakian Defence Minister Martin Glvac, who is on a working visit to Vietnam, Quan suggested the two countries enhance their connection in economics, trade and education-training.

The host and guest concurred that there is great untapped potential for the two sides to enhance their ties.

Expressing his impression of the strong development and socio-economic stability of Vietnam and HCM City, Martin Glvac stressed the need to continue boosting the traditional relationship between the two countries.

The Slovakian Minister hailed the Vietnamese community in Slovakia and for their contributions to promoting friendship between the two nations, saying they serve as an important bridge to boost bilateral relations.

Specific measures should be rolled out to bolster links between Slovakia and Vietnam, and HCM City in particular, the guest said.

Last year, trade between HCM City and Slovakia hit 85 million USD and the number of Slovakian tourists to the Vietnamese city reached 1,500.

Slovakia has set up an honour consulate office in HCM City, showing the European country’s interest in the bilateral diplomatic ties, which were established 60 years ago.-VNA