National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan has described Vietnam-Netherlands ties as typical and effective relations between Vietnam and a European nation. 

National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan (R) and Queen of the Netherlands Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti 

The top legislator made the remarks at a reception for Queen of the Netherlands Máxima Zorreguieta Cerruti, who is also the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development, in Hanoi on May 31. 

Vietnam attaches importance to and advocates enhancing the friendship and multi-faceted cooperation with the Netherlands which is playing an important role in the European Union (EU), she said. 

Ngan highlighted the significance of inclusive finance to the development of each nation, which she said, is the main driver mentioned in seven out of 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 

The Government, National Assembly, relevant agencies and businesses of Vietnam stand ready to discuss with Queen Máxima issues regarding inclusive finance to boost growth, the Chairwoman noted. 

Vietnam is well aware of contributions of inclusive finance to livelihoods as well as the rotation of investment flows and savings in the society, she said, adding that inclusive finance is also an effective tool to mobilise social resources in order to spur socio-economic development, poverty reduction and sustainable development. 

Chairwoman Ngan attributed Vietnam’s internationally recognised poverty reduction achievements to the implementation of many policies and activities related to inclusive finance such as microfinance, credit for agriculture and rural areas and social welfare, thus helping residents easily get access to financial and banking services. 

With limited resources, Vietnam wishes to receive international support in this field, she said, calling on the Queen, in her capacity as the UN Secretary-General’s Special Advocate for Inclusive Finance for Development, to assist the country in mobilising financial and technical resources from the UN and other international organisations to implement inclusive finance. 

Queen Máxima, for her part, congratulated Vietnam on its achievements in poverty reduction over the past years. 

Speaking highly of Vietnam’s commitment to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), she said the UN, the Netherlands and international partners are willing to share experience with Vietnam in building a national inclusive finance strategy. 

According to the Queen, the involvement of ministries and agencies concerned, particularly those regarding technology and private sector, in devising the draft national strategy is needed, during which, the State Bank of Vietnam plays an important coordinating role. 

She also highlighted the diversification of current financial services, adding that the two countries could cooperate in developing a highly integrated electronic payment system in Vietnam.

VNA