Deputy Foreign Minister Ha Kim Ngoc paid a visit to Chile from November 23-25 during which he held a political consultation with his Chilean counterpart Edgado Riveros Marin.

The two Deputy FMs evaluated outcomes of cooperation aspects between the two countries, and agreed on the future bilateral agenda with more high-level delegation exchanges, enhanced connection among ministries and businesses, and close coordination in the organisation of cultural exchange activities.

The two sides also agreed to effectively implement cooperation mechanisms and signed agreements, including the bilateral free trade deal that became effective from January this year, while continuing negotiations for agreements on consular affairs, finance, education and fisheries, thus completing legal framework for partnership.

They also discussed regional and international issues of mutual concerns, and concurred to support each other at multilateral forums.

During his stay in Chile, Deputy FM Ngoc paid a courtesy call to Presidents of the Senate Isabel Allende Bussi and Chamber of Deputies Aldo Cornejo Gonzalez, and Chilean President Michelle Bachelet’s mother, Angela Jeria.

During meetings, the Chilean leaders expressed their warm sentiments to Vietnamese people and their admiration for the country’s history of struggling for national independence as well as recent achievements that Vietnam has gained.

They affirmed their wish to further foster bilateral relations with Vietnam in all fields.

Ngoc thanked the support that Chilean people gave to Vietnam during the past struggle for national independence and unity as well as current national construction.

He stated that Vietnam always treasures and prioritises to the development of ties with Chile, hoping to strengthen cooperation with the country in politics-diplomacy, economics-trade, culture-education, and security-defence.

He also said he hopes legislative bodies and public organisations of both sides will foster their connection.

On the East Sea issue, leaders of Chile’s parliament and Foreign Ministry affirmed their consistent stance of supporting the settlement of disputes through peaceful measures in line with international law.

He also visited leaders of the Chile-Vietnam Cultural Institute and visited the University of Chile’s Institute for International Studies where he delivered a speech on political and security climate in Asia.

VNA/VNN