The Prime Minister’s special envoy Doan Xuan Hung affirmed Vietnam ’s respect for Sudan ’s decision on South Sudan independence while meeting with Sudan leaders during his visit from June 21-25.

Hung, who is also Deputy Foreign Minister, said in a meeting with Sudan President Omar Al-Bashir that “ Vietnam treasures relations with Sudan and is working to promote relations with both parts of the country”.

He made the statement after confirming the Vietnamese Government’s respect for Sudan ’s political roadmap and its people’s will for the independence of the southern region.

In reply, Sudan President Al-Bashir said he would instruct relevant agencies to consider Vietnam ’s initiatives on bilateral relations, especially in trade, agriculture, oil and gas industry and telecommunications.

In Juba, the capital of South Sudan, Hung met with First Vice President Salva Kiir Mayardit, who is also President of the South Sudan Government, to hand over Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s letter, recognising the success of the political process in Sudan.

“ Vietnam will recognise South Sudan soon after it declares independence,” affirmed the PM special envoy.

He also emphasised that Vietnam ’s willingness to share experience with and join in the reconstruction of South Sudan .

Hung asked the South Sudan Government to provide favourable conditions for Vietnamese businesses interested in investment in the region.

His offers to help met the host’s expression of interest in Vietnam ’s assistance in the reconstruction and development of South Sudan .

Mayardit asked Hung to convey his letter of invitation to Prime Minister Dung to attend the South Sudan Independence Declaration anniversary scheduled for July 9.

During its stay, the Vietnamese delegation also held a consultative meeting with a delegation from Sudan Foreign Ministry and held working sessions with leaders from several ministries, agencies and businesses./.