The establishment of the Philippines-Vietnam Friendship Association in Manila has demonstrated the host’s efforts to boost its partnership with Vietnam, according to Chairman of the association Eddie U.Ilarde.

This also marks a new development in the friendship and solidarity between the two countries since they set up bilateral diplomatic ties 40 years ago, said Vietnamese Ambassador to the Philippines Truong Trieu Duong at the founding ceremony on July 29.

The association will help promote the mutual understanding between the two people and expand bilateral cooperation opportunities, especially in tourism, trade, culture and education, he added.

Former Philippine President Fidel V.Ramos hailed the cooperation between the two governments and people since Vietnam joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the World Trade Organisation (WTO).

He said he hopes the pair will increase work together in all realms.-VNA