Vietnam, Belarus seek ways to forge economic, trade, investment ties

Hanoi (VNA) – Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue and his Belarusian counterpart Igor Lyashenko on September 25 reached consensus on concrete measures to advance economic, trade and investment cooperation between Vietnam and Belarus, making it match potential of each side.

During their talks in Hanoi, they agreed that the two countries will join hands to effectively implement the free trade agreement between Vietnam and the Eurasian Economic Union, and the Vietnam-Belarus protocol on supporting the production of motor vehicles in Vietnam.

The move aims to create breakthroughs in the bilateral economic and trade ties, thus raising the two-way trade to 500 million USD in the years to come.

At the same time, the two sides will expand collaboration in agriculture, they consented.

They rejoiced at the inauguration of the first Vietnam-Belarus joint auto venture, slated for September 26 in Vietnam’s northern province of Hung Yen.

The two sides concurred to continue their close coordination in realising the Vietnam-Belarus programme on cooperation in science, education and culture, as well as the bilateral defence and security ties, while facilitating collaboration between localities.

The Deputy PMs lauded efforts made by the two sides to facilitate the exit and entry of their citizens, and promote tourism cooperation.

Hue said Vietnam always attaches importance to consolidating and developing the traditional friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with Belarus.

The official noted his hope that Belarus leaders and authorities at all levels will create more favourable conditions for Vietnamese to live and work in the host society.

Lyashenko, for his part, said Belarus considers Vietnam one of its top diplomatic priorities in Southeast Asia and Asia at large.

Both affirmed their resolve to consolidate and develop the relationship and soon elevate it to a new high.

They agreed to maintain all-level delegation exchanges in order to enhance the political trust and step up cooperation via the channels of the States, National Assemblies, ministries, agencies and localities.

They will also intensify coordination at multilateral forums like the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, contributing to protecting interests of each nation, for global peace, stability and prosperity.

Regarding international and regional issues of shared concern, Lyashenko affirmed his support for Vietnam’s stance on settling territorial disputes, including those in the East Sea, by peaceful measures, not using force or threatening to use force, with the engagement of all concerned parties.  

Following the talks, the officials witnessed the signing of a programme on cultural cooperation between the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the Belarusian Ministry of Culture for the 2020-2022 period./.