Israeli President Reuven Rivlin made the suggestion in a recent interview with the Vietnam News Agency on the run up to his upcoming official visit to Vietnam from March 19-25.
Israeli President Reuven Rivlin. Source: Cleveland Jewish News
Vietnam is a hi-tech, innovative and reformed economy, which has recorded rapid growth in recent years, he said, adding that Vietnam is being seen as one of the top start-up nations in the world.
Israel is one of Vietnam’s important partners in the Middle East, with two-way trade reaching USD 2.3 billion in 2015, he said.
The President expressed his hope that the two countries will soon conclude negotiations on a free trade agreement to create a firm foundation for bilateral trade.
Vietnamese people, like Israelis, have a dynamic start-up spirit, he said.
He said that Israel has sought to deal with the shortage of natural resources and develop high technologies and know-how in irrigation and drainage as well as water resources conservation.
Vietnam has more natural advantages and also people than Israel, he said, adding that he knows the Southeast Asian country is seeking new technologies to grow more plants on its soil and provide clean water.
This is an important field for bilateral cooperation as it will bring benefits for the two peoples and others around the globe, he said.
Bilateral trade collaboration includes the development of many industrial sectors and technological knowledge sharing, encompassing defense-security, medical equipment, and education, he added.
Through bilateral hi-tech agricultural cooperation, the two countries could ensure food security for millions of people, the President said.
He went on to say that if Vietnam and Israel continue to push ahead with coordination in communication and technological fields, the two sides will be able to connect people for better mutual understanding and stronger development.
Strengthening bilateral cooperation will help both nations cope with global challenges as well, he added.
President Reuven Rivlin is expected to head a delegation of more than 50 Israeli businesses to visit Vietnam, during which the two sides will conduct workshops to expand bilateral economic ties.
Source: VNA