PM Le Minh Hung and Chinese Premier Li Qiang held their first telephone conversation on the morning of June 15, reaffirming their commitment to deepening bilateral cooperation and implementing agreements reached by the top leaders of both countries.
Prime Minister Le Minh Hung speaks with Chinese Premier Li Qiang by telephone. Photo: VGP
The two premiers expressed satisfaction at conducting their first discussion following the completion of leadership appointments within Vietnam’s government after the first session of the 16th National Assembly.
Premier Li Qiang said he highly valued Prime Minister Le Minh Hung’s important contributions to China-Vietnam relations throughout his various leadership positions.
Prime Minister Hung, in turn, welcomed China’s continued emphasis on relations with Vietnam within its neighborhood diplomacy policy.
He stressed that Vietnam consistently regards developing ties with China as an objective requirement, a strategic choice and a top priority in the country’s foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, diversification and multilateralization.
The two leaders praised the positive momentum in relations between the two parties and countries, particularly the rapid implementation of action plans and cooperation programs designed to realize key agreements reached by senior leaders.
They agreed to maintain regular, candid and trustworthy exchanges and to coordinate closely in implementing outcomes from the recent state visit to China by General Secretary and President To Lam, as well as Chinese President Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam in 2025.
Expanding practical cooperation
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Hung proposed further strengthening strategic trust through high-level exchanges and existing cooperation mechanisms, including the 3+3 Strategic Dialogue involving the foreign affairs, defense and public security ministries of both countries.
He called for stronger infrastructure connectivity and the development of an integrated multimodal transport network, with railway cooperation identified as a priority area.
The Vietnamese leader also proposed expanding connectivity with other countries and regions, promoting balanced and sustainable bilateral trade, accelerating the launch of smart border gate models and developing cross-border economic cooperation zones to facilitate trade, investment and industrial collaboration.
Photo: VGP
Prime Minister Hung further expressed hope for broader cooperation in science and technology, education, high-quality workforce development and healthcare, particularly traditional medicine.
He also emphasized cultural and tourism exchanges, including preparations for the Vietnam-China Tourism Cooperation Years 2026-2027, while encouraging stronger collaboration between border provinces and other localities with significant development potential.
Premier Li reaffirmed that China considers Vietnam a priority direction in its neighborhood diplomacy and pledged to work closely with Vietnam to implement high-level agreements and expand practical cooperation across multiple sectors.
Li agreed with the proposals put forward by Prime Minister Hung and confirmed China’s readiness to deepen railway cooperation and improve connectivity with regional partners.
He also expressed support for stronger industrial integration, agricultural trade and cooperation in inspection and quarantine procedures.
The Chinese premier encouraged reputable and capable enterprises to increase high-quality investment, particularly in science, technology and innovation. He also highlighted opportunities for expanded cooperation in energy security, electricity connectivity, tourism and social welfare projects.
The two premiers exchanged views on regional and international issues of mutual concern and pledged close coordination to ensure the success of APEC 2026 in China and APEC 2027 in Vietnam.
They also agreed to better manage differences, maintain peace and stability at sea and preserve a favorable environment for the development of both countries.