Partnership with Switzerland bolstered

The Prime Minister said Vietnam was keen on fostering the friendship with Switzerland and hoped the two countries will continue bolstering co-operation in all fields, especially trade and investment.

The prime minister was positive about the weekly direct flights from Switzerland starting in November, which are expected to boost bitateral trade, investment and tourism. Leuthard expressed her impression of Vietnam's growth as well as delight at the progress of the ties between the two countries over the past years. She expressed her hope that negotiations for a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association would be finalised this year after seven years, opening up new co-operation prospects in tourism, trade and investment.