Vietnam, EU look to expand comprehensive cooperation

The EU ambassador made the remarks when he met Vietnam’s Party General Secretary, Nguyen Phu Trong, at a reception held in Hanoi on Thursday, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

Jessen also affirmed that the EU considers Vietnam a significant and priority partner in Southeast Asia.

He also pledged to continue making contributions to the promotion of Vietnam – EU ties in his future positions.

The diplomat expressed his belief that Vietnam and the EU have suitable conditions to expand ties.

Regarding the East Vietnam Sea issue, the ambassador reiterated the EU’s support for efforts to settle disputes through peaceful measures based on international law.

Vietnam’s Party General Secretary Trong said he highly appreciates the EU’s support for ASEAN and Vietnam’s stance on the East Vietnam Sea issue and asked for closer mutual support at regional and global forums.

The Party leader highly valued the comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and the EU since the two sides established their diplomatic ties 25 years ago.

He also agreed with the outgoing ambassador that substantial room remains for further cooperation between the Southeast Asian country and the bloc.

He affirmed the Vietnamese Party and State’s consistent policy of strengthening relations with the EU, and urged both sides to take measures to deepen their cooperation in the future.

Hailing the recent conclusion of negotiations on the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement, the Vietnamese leader asked the grouping to boost the signing of this pact.

He also recommended the union step up approval of the Vietnam-EU Framework Agreement on Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation signed in June 2012.