Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force Timothy Keating (Source: 3news.co.nz) Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh hosted a reception in Hanoi on August 17 for Chief of the New Zealand Defence Force Timothy Keating, who affirmed that his country is willing to share its experience in taking part in UN peacekeeping missions with Vietnam.
New Zealand will continue implementing the English language and skills training programme for Vietnamese officers, he stated.
He appreciated the organisation of the two countries’ annual defence consultation while hoping for the early organisation of the first defence strategic dialogue at the deputy ministerial level.
Deputy PM Minh confirmed that Vietnam attaches importance to its friendship, cooperation and comprehensive partnership with New Zealand, which has brought practical benefits to both countries’ people and development in the region.
He asked the two sides to actively coordinate to fully and effectively realise agreements reached during Prime Minister Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s official visit to New Zealand in March.
He also said he is satisfied with activities to celebrate the 40th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties this year.
For regional and international situations, both host and guest emphasised the importance of peace, stability and maritime security, safety and freedom for development and prosperity in the region.-VNA
