At the event (Source: VNA) Singapore (VNA) – Vietnam’s relations with big countries, achievements and challenges in its diplomatic policy of multilateralisation and diversification, 30 years since its renewal, were featured at the Vietnam Forum 2016 held in Singapore on April 8.
Scholars discussed the development of the Vietnam – US, Vietnam – China and Vietnam - India ties, including sea-related issues, as well as ties with neighbouring Laos and Cambodia.
The country’s comprehensive and strong economic integration process, including the ties with the European Union via the free trade agreement, also received attention.
Participants shared the view that the bilateral relations with the said countries, particularly with the US and China, are significant to shaping Vietnam’s diplomatic policy.
They took note of the strengthened strategic trust between Vietnam and the US recently, which created prerequisites and a foundation for bilateral links not only in the economy, science-technology and trade-investment, but also in national defence and military affairs.
Talking to Vietnam News Agency reporters on the sidelines of the event, researcher Phuong Nguyen from the US’s Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) said US President Barack Obama’s up-coming visit to Vietnam underscores the core value of building bilateral strategic trust. She added that the visit would be a good chance for the two countries to show their seriousness in further tightening their cooperation.
Le Hong Hiep from the organiser ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute said with flexibility and creativity, Vietnam can maintain its peaceful and stable environment, given its increasingly enhanced position in the region.
Rajeev Ranjan Chaturverdy from the National University of Singapore’s Institute of South Asia said India is helping Vietnam strengthen its power since both sides support a diplomatic policy of independence.
India’s greater involvement in Vietnam will help the latter considerably improve its economic and national defence capabilites, he said.-VNA
