A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on agricultural and rural development cooperation was signed between Ireland and Vietnam in Hanoi on November 3.

At the signing ceremony, Vietnam ’s Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Cao Duc Phat spoke highly of Ireland ’s experience in transitioning from an agriculture-based economy to an economy driven by high-tech industries and advanced agricultural technology.

By signing the MoU, Vietnam will benefit greatly from Ireland ’s support and long-standing experience in high-tech agriculture, most notably in processing and food preservation, he said.

Irish Ambassador to Vietnam Damine Cole expressed his hope that the MoU would foster bilateral cooperation on agriculture, which is key to boosting economic ties between the two countries.

It also forms a basis for agricultural collaboration that helps Vietnam ensure food quality and hygiene standards, and foster long-term investments in food processing, he added.

Once the free trade agreement between Ireland and Vietnam is concluded, it will pave the way for enterprises from both countries to access each other’s markets. Last year, bilateral trade in the agricultural sector totalled 183.8 million EUR.

VNA/VNN