Both sides reviewed the implementation of the action program for the 2017-2019 period in all areas, and discussed orientations and focus of cooperation to lift the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Malaysia in a more practical manner.
They agreed to adopt the action program for the 2021-2025 strategic partnership with major orientations to effectively tap each country’s potentials and strengths, towards achieving sustainable and resilient development post-pandemic with USD 18 billion in two-way trade by 2025. They also agreed to recognize each other's “vaccine passports” soon.
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Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son at the event |
Son suggested Malaysia create favorable conditions for Vietnamese firms to export farm produce to the country, help Vietnam develop Halal food industry, receive more Vietnamese workers and simplify relevant procedures when conditions allow.
The Malaysian FM, for his part, said that Malaysia wishes to effectively boost ties with Vietnam – the only strategic partner of Malaysia in ASEAN. He agreed with Vietnam’s proposals and proposed the two nations’ ministries and agencies soon discuss celebrations for the 50th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties (2023).
He suggested Vietnam import more palm oil from Malaysia and offer support to Malaysia to open international education establishments in the country.
The two sides consented to offer mutual support and work closely together at regional and global forums, especially at the United Nations, ASEAN and ASEAN-led mechanisms. They vowed to tap opportunities and benefits from new-generation free trade deals such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
They underlined the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, maritime and aviation safety and freedom in the East Sea (South China Sea), settling disputes by peaceful measures in line with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982 (UNCLOS 1982).
They also expressed support for serious and full implementation of the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC), and negotiations towards reaching an effective, efficient Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in accordance with international law, including the UNCLOS 1982.
Concluding the event, the two ministers signed the meeting's minutes and agreed to hold the seventh meeting in Vietnam at a convenient time for both sides.
Source: VNA