Vietnam, Australia hold cooperation potential

President Tran Dai Quang (R) and Australian PM Malcolm Turnbull

He met with Australian Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull within the framework of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Week in the Central city of Da Nang on November 10.

Vietnam encourages Australian businesses to invest in infrastructure, high-tech agriculture, education and training, he said, calling for more help from Australia in dealing with post-war consequences, including bomb and mine clearance and search for Vietnamese soldiers missing in action.

PM Malcolm Turnbull stressed that Australia considers Vietnam an important partner in its foreign policy in the Asia-Pacific.

On this occasion, the PM conveyed sympathies of the Australian Government and people to Vietnamese people affected by typhoon Damrey.

The two leaders agreed to deepen the bilateral relationship in an effective and pragmatic fashion, with attention paid to national defense and security, trade, education and people-to-people exchange.

They also looked into regional and international issues of shared concern, including the East Sea (South China Sea) issue.

The Australian side affirmed its support for the stance of Vietnam and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) on maintaining peace, stability, maritime safety and freedom in the region, and handling disputes by peaceful measures on the basis of respecting law.

Source: VNA