Vietnam, Norway promote bilateral cooperation
Hanoi (VNA) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh talked
on the phone with Norwegian Foreign Minister Ine Eriksen Soreide on May 26,
discussing measures to enhance bilateral cooperation and coordination at
multilateral forums.
The
two officials noted with satisfaction the sound development of bilateral ties,
particularly the implementation of agreements reached during the visit to
Norway by Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc in May 2019. They agreed
to work together to organise activities marking the 50th anniversary
of bilateral diplomatic relations (1971-2021).
The
two sides compared notes on orientations to promote economic and trade ties
between the two countries, one of which is to push for the early signing of a
free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the European Free Trade
Association (EFTA), in order to support their economies in overcoming the
impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.
They
also discussed measures to control the pandemic and promote post-pandemic
economic development. The Norwegian Foreign Minister praised pandemic control
measures taken by Vietnam, saying they are effective and provide good experience.
Deputy
PM Minh said Vietnam is willing to share experiences in this field with Norway
and support each other in citizen protection work. He welcomed Norway’s
initiatives on UN coordination to help developing countries overcome the
consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic and push ahead with the research for a
vaccine for the disease.
The
two officials expressed their satisfaction at bilateral coordination at
multilateral forums, noting that the two countries share many similar
viewpoints on international affairs, including the maintenance of peace and stability,
respect for law, and sustainable development.
The
two sides agreed to continue with coordination to better tap the potential for
cooperation between Norway and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations
(ASEAN) during the year Vietnam is the chair of the association. They also
vowed to enhance collaboration at the UN, especially when Vietnam is serving as
a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2020-2021 tenure. /.