Viet Nam treasures the friendship with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) and wants to enhance co-operation between the two countries, President Truong Tan Sang affirmed to the DPRK's defence leader.

At his reception for visiting General Pak Yong Sik, Minister of People's Armed Forces of the DPRK in Ha Noi yesterday, the President praised the DPRK's achievements in the past few years.

He applauded the outcomes of the talks between General Pak Yong Sik and leaders of the Viet Nam Ministry of Defence and urged the two ministries to carry out their commitments in an effective manner.

For his part, General Park Yong Sik said he is happy with the sound relations between two countries, which were fostered by President Ho Chi Minh and President Kim Il Sung and many generations of leaders.

The official also shared his admiration for Viet Nam's achievements in socio-economy and security-defence, especially Party building work and the development of the military. He expressed gratitude to Viet Nam for giving support to DPRK during the national construction process, and pledged to do his utmost to foster the relations between the two nations.

N Korea ties

Viet Nam wished to strengthen co-operation with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK), said Minister of National Defence General Phung Quang Thanh. At his talks with visiting DPRK People's Armed Forces Minister General Pak Yong Sik in Ha Noi yesterday, Thanh stated his country treasures its relations with the DPRK.

For his part, Minister Pak Yong Sik highlighted the development of bilateral ties, affirming that this was a valuable asset that needs to be nurtured.

The ministers confirmed their desire to reinforce the friendship between the two countries, bringing benefits to their people and contributing to peace, stability, co-operation and development in the region.

They agreed to maintain ties through increased exchange of delegations and language learners as well as promoting co-operation in education-training museums, libraries, culture and sport.

Minister Pak Yong Sik is on an official visit to Viet Nam from November 25-28 at the invitation of Minister Phung Quang Thanh.

VNS