Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh had a bilateral meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop who is in Vietnam for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Da Nang city on November 8.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh (R) welcomes Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop

Bishop extended sympathy to victims of typhoon Damrey, while speaking highly of the Government of Vietnam’s efforts in overcoming consequences of the storm and ensuring best conditions for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.

The two sides expressed their delight at growth of the enhanced comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and Australia, especially in trade, defence, security, education and development cooperation.

Both sides agreed to continue maintaining close consultation and trust between the two foreign ministries, especially in dealing with difficult and sensitive issues in the relationship between the two countries.

They will coordinate closely in preparing for high-level visits to mark the 45th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2018, aiming to soon lift up the two countries’ relationship to strategic partnership.

Bishop affirmed that Vietnam plays an important part in Australia’s foreign policies, adding that her country hopes to foster the practical, effective and in-depth partnership with Vietnam in all fields. She appreciated Vietnam’s cooperation in implementing Australia’s New Colombo Plan. So far, about 1,500 Australian students have arrived in Vietnam for study and exchange.

Deputy PM Minh highly valued Australia’s ODA projects which have helped improve socio-economy, environment, support startups and promote gender equality in Vietnam, contributing to forming the economic partnership between the two countries.

Both sides underscored support to each other during the running for seat in international organisations and important agencies of the United Nations.

They also shared viewpoints on regional security challenges, concurring to work closely at ASEAN high-level meetings.

Australia supports Vietnam in hosting the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week and promotes APEC achievements in the future, contributing to maintaining driving force for growth, prosperity and trade liberisation in the region.

On the occasion, Minh and Bishop attended the signing ceremony of an agreement implementing a 37 million AUD project to promote gender equality in Lao Cai and Son La provinces using non-refundable ODA from Australia, aiming to assist local women in agricultural production and tourism development.-VNA