After setting up a diplomatic relationship in 1973, Vietnam and Iran have cooperated and supported each other on many issues. On this occasion, we asked Iranian Ambassador to Vietnam, Saleh Adibi, for a short interview about his thoughts on the visit, as well as the relationship between the two countries.
Reporter: Thank you for joining us today. Can you share with us some assessments on the relationship between Vietnam and Iran both in the past and at present?
Iranian Ambassador to Vietnam, Saleh Adibi: Vietnam and Iran established a diplomatic relationship early in history. We have sent and received many delegates and cooperated at many bilateral, multi-lateral, and international forums. The two countries agree and support each other on many issues. It can be said that the current period is the best period in Vietnam and Iran’s relationship.
As you know, State President Truong Tan Sang is going to have a visit to Iran. What issues will be discussed in the visit? And how will the visit affect the relationship between Vietnam and Iran?
The two sides will focus on methods to strengthen the Vietnam-Iran relationship in many fields, including trade, science, technology, and education. Also, implementation of past Memorandums of Understanding will be discussed. In addition, we are hoping to exempt Vietnamese nationals and businesses from visa requirements. The people of Iran welcome State President Sang’s visit and I believe the visit will create a breakthrough in our bilateral relationship.
What can Vietnam and Iran do to further promote economic and trade cooperation?
We always prioritise cooperation with Vietnam in energy, oil, and the transferring of technology. Iran also hopes to increase the exchange of goods with Vietnam, especially in fields where both countries are strong, like garment and textile, agriculture, and sea products. Iran will invite its businesses to attend State President Sang’s visit and discuss cooperation with the Vietnamese enterprises accompanying him. Opportunities for business cooperation between Vietnam and Iran are now open.
Now that embargoes on Iran are lifted, what does this mean for cooperation between Vietnam and Iran in the future?
The biggest obstacle for the two countries in the past was the embargoes. Now I can affirm that there are no more obstacles between Vietnam and Iran. We currently have an open market which is good for bilateral cooperation. However, I would like to emphasise that both countries still need to step up efforts to implement signed Memorandums of Cooperation.
