Vietnam and Portugal should double their efforts to make economic, trade, and investment cooperation key pillars in their bilateral relations while promoting affiliation in marine economy, navigation, energy and tourism.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the remarks at a meeting with Portuguese President Anibal Cavaco Silva on June 3 as part of the Vietnamese government leader’s official visit, the first by a Vietnamese senior leader to Portugal since the two countries established diplomatic ties in 1975.

The two leaders agreed to enhance all-level delegation exchanges, especially among high-ranking officials. In this spirit, the Vietnamese PM passed along an invitation from State President Truong Tan Sang to the Portuguese counterpart to visit Vietnam.

PM Nguyen Tan Dung also proposed the two countries encourage people-to-people exchange to increase mutual understanding and cooperation across fields.

He affirmed that Vietnam will create favourable conditions for enterprises of both countries to forge business links.

President Anibal Cavaco Silva agreed on the aforesaid proposals and welcomed the two countries’ Prime Ministers to attend the marine economics forum and a business dialogue.

The president said Portugal prioritises the development of sea-based economy and the country is willing to cooperate with Vietnam in this field.

He confirmed that Portugal supports Vietnam to strengthen its comprehensive relations with the European Union (EU) and hoped the two sides would conclude a bilateral free trade agreement soon.

Once implemented, the trade pact is expected to boost economic ties between Vietnam and the EU in general and Portugal in particular, he said.

In discussing regional and international issues, including the recent developments in the East Sea, President Anibal Cavaco Silva affirmed that Portugal advocates the settlement of disputes in the East Sea via peaceful means and dialogues and with respect for international law’s fundamental principles.

VNA