PM Phuc wishes for early approval of trade deals with EU

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) welcomes the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA) Bernd Lange (Photo: VGP)

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosted a reception in Hanoi on October 31 for Chairman of the European Parliament’s Committee on International Trade (INTA) Bernd Lange, during which the Vietnamese Government leader thanked the INTA Chairman for his great efforts to accelerate the European Union’s signing of the two trade pacts.

He underscored the need for Vietnam and the EU to intensify high-level visit exchange, maintain dialogue and cooperation mechanisms, as well as swiftly deal with existing problems in bilateral ties as both sides are due to celebrate the 30th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties next year.

PM Phuc also highlighted the strategic economic significance of the EVFTA and EVIPA to Vietnam – EU ties as well as the promotion of open, transparent and rules-based economic connectivity.

He hailed the EU’s interest in Asia-Pacific and its stance on supporting freedom, security and maritime safety in the East Sea, wishing that the EU would continue playing an active and constructive role in the region.

The cabinet leader said he hopes that the EU – ASEAN ties, and Vietnam – EU ties within multilateral framework will continue to grow and flourish as a contribution to peace and prosperity in the region and the world.

In reply, the INTA Chairman affirmed that the EU supports Vietnam’s stance on the East Sea issue, noting that with the signing of important agreements on trade and investment, the development of ties based on partnership in lieu of competition is crucially important in the context of a fast changing world with numerous risks.

The EP will consider voting to ratify the two agreements in next February, adding that during the visit, his delegation had a meeting with Vietnamese authorities to discuss the ratification and delivery of commitments to those deals.

Bernd Lange affirmed the EU’s readiness to help Vietnam work out and fine-tune policies in order to spur growth and improve people’s living conditions.

The EU desires to work together with Vietnam at multilateral forums, especially in 2020 when Vietnam undertakes the role of ASEAN Chair and serves as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council for the 2020 – 2021 tenure, he said, while expressing his confidence that Vietnam will perform well these important roles.