Vietnam supports economic cooperation in Francophone organisation

Hanoi (VNA) – Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh stressed that Vietnam backs the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF)’s efforts to enhance economic cooperation apart from joint work in traditional sectors.

At his talks with Michaelle Jean, OIF Secretary-General in Hanoi on October 12, the Deputy PM said such cooperation will help strengthen the Francophone community and meet the expectations of its members.

Minh affirmed that the OIF is an important partner of Vietnam, and suggested specific measures to lift Vietnam-OIF ties, particularly in trade with African countries, supporting startup, promoting the teaching of French and in French, and joining the UN peacekeeping mission.

He discussed with the guest priority activities for the Francophone community in the time ahead and preparations for Vietnam’s delegation headed by President Tran Dai Quang to attend the 16th Francophone Summit in Madagascar this November.

For her part, Michaelle Jean said the OIF is willing to support Vietnam’s economic integration as well as assist the country in encouraging startups and connecting with African businesses.

Taking note of contributions and strong commitment of the country to the Francophone community, she said Vietnam is an important and reliable of many OIF state members in Africa.

She praised Vietnam’s mutually beneficial and sustainable approach when carrying out joint projects in some Francophone countries.

She affirmed that the OIF will strengthen cooperation with Vietnam in teaching French and teaching in French as well as back the participation of Vietnam in UN peacekeeping mission.

Concerning the East Sea issue, she urged sides involved to settle disputes by peaceful measures in line with international law and the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

After their talks, Deputy PM Minh and the OIF Secretary General witnessed the signing of a partnership agreement between the IOF and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam, which aims to improve French competency of Vietnamese diplomats and public servants.-VNA