Opinions & Interviews

MINSK, 8 September (BelTA) – Vietnam highly appreciates the assistance of Belarusians at a difficult time. The statement was made by Nguyen Thai Lai, President of the Belarus-Vietnam Friendship Society, former natural resources and environmental protection minister of Vietnam, during the soiree held in the Friendship House to mark Independence Day of Vietnam, BelTA has learned.

Nguyen Thai Lai is in Belarus on a visit on 6-10 September. He noted: “Belarus supported Vietnam a lot during the period when we had a lot of problems and difficulties”. He also drew attention to the fact that Vietnam rejoices at Belarus’ accomplishments in maintaining the social and political stability and at the growing respect for the country in the international scene. According to the guest, Belarus-Vietnam friendship has a long history. At present Belarusian-Vietnamese friendship is supported at all levels.

In turn, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Vietnam to Belarus Le Anh pointed out the importance of Vietnam’s accomplishments in the domestic and foreign policies in the independence period. He stressed that the 12^th congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam and elections to the parliament took place at the beginning of the year.

The Ambassador noted: “With a population of over 90 million people, Vietnam is an attractive market for foreign investors. The recent ratification of the free trade agreement between the Eurasian Economic Union and Vietnam once again proves it. Now trade between the countries will become more liberalized thanks to lower or annulled important customs duties. There is no doubt trade figures will grow. The document will come into force on 5 October.”

Le Anh also emphasized that Vietnam pursues an independent multiple-vector foreign policy, works hard to become part of international and regional processes, and pays close attention to bolstering relations with traditionally friendly nations.

The Ambassador stated: “Vietnam pays close attention to advancing the development of mutually beneficial relations with Belarus. Despite the geographical distance the two countries have been connected by friendship and mutual assistance for decades. Close contacts are maintained at the top level, mutual political trust grows stronger, support in international bodies is ensured, primarily in the United Nations Organization and the Non-Aligned Movement in matters concerning international development and matters of mutual interest. Apart from that, cooperation grows stronger in the area of economy, education, culture, communications and transport, security.”