Expressing delight at the recent elevation of bilateral ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership in March 2024, President Lam suggested that based on this upgraded framework, both countries should continue proposing specific cooperation programs and plans, maintaining the exchange of all-level delegations, enhancing the sharing of information on global and regional issues of mutual concern, deepening collaboration in national defense-security, economy-trade and in emerging areas such as climate change adaptation, clean energy, digital transformation and artificial intelligence.
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President To Lam (right) and Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Andrew Goledzinowski |
The President welcomed the expansion of partnerships between Australian and Vietnamese universities and the continued offering of scholarships to Vietnamese students. He also proposed the Australian Government facilitate opportunities for the Vietnamese community in Australia.
The Vietnamese State leader took the occasion to express thanks to Australia for its support in healthcare, peacekeeping, climate change adaptation and energy transition.
Goledzinowski, for his part, lauded Vietnam's "bamboo tree" foreign policy which he said has contributed to regional peace and stability. He highlighted the significant progress achieved in bilateral relations across various fields since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, affirming his commitment to working closely with Vietnamese authorities to effectively implement the comprehensive strategic partnership.
Recognizing Vietnam's importance in Australia's regional foreign policy, he pledged to continue allocating resources to Southeast Asia, including Vietnam, under the framework of Australia's Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.
In reply, the host spoke highly of Australia's stance on supporting peace, stability, security and safety of navigation and overflight in the region, settling disputes through peaceful means via dialogue in line with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 1982. He also expressed hope for Australia's continued support for ASEAN's central role in the region.
Source: VNA