New York (VNA) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and Malawi’s Foreign Minister Nancy Tempo witnessed the signing of a joint statement on establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Malawi, which marked an important milestone in the relationship between the two countries.
Speaking to Vietnam News Agency after the signing, Tempo expressed her delight and high hope at the growth of bilateral ties after this historic moment.
She highlighted the great potential of cooperation and experience sharing between the two countries for the benefit of the two peoples, as Malawi and Vietnam can find common ground in many areas.
The minister said that Malawi is focusing on developing sectors such as agriculture, tourism, mining and coffee industry, which are also Vietnam's strengths, which opens up opportunities for the two countries to work together.
In 1996, Vietnam's Gross Domestic Product (GDP) was lower than Malawi's, but now Vietnam has surpassed Malawi with a much higher GDP than Malawi’s, with many jobs created for the people and a prosperous economy. The Malawian FM underlined that this is truly an inspiring story and Malawi can learn a lot from Vietnam's experience in the upcoming development journey.
At their meeting following the signing ceremony, the two FMs shared the pleasure at the signing of the joint statement of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Son suggested that the two sides carry out delegation exchanges and conduct bilateral contact through various channels to enhance understanding, political trust and expand cooperation opportunities.
He pledged that Vietnam is willing to share development experience with Malawi, especially in areas of Vietnam’s strength such as economic development, renovation and integration, agriculture, aquatic farming and education. Vietnam is also willing to coordinate with Malawi to seek sponsorships from a third party such as the UN Food and Agriculture Organisation and the European Union for tripartite projects in Malawi, Son stated.
By establishing diplomatic relations with Malawi, Vietnam now has diplomatic relations with all African countries and with 194 countries worldwide./.
