He explained that this is the first-ever visit to Vietnam by an Egyptian President since the two countries established their diplomatic ties in 1963.
The visit also reflects Egypt’s expectations to upgrade the diplomatic ties and enhance cooperation in all areas, from politics to economy, trade, investment and education, Long said, stressing that the visit is expected to open up a new chapter in the bilateral relationship.
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to visit Vietnam from September 6
He reviewed support of the Egyptian Government and people to Vietnam during the struggle for national independence as well as the cause of national construction and development, and highlighted the two countries’ mutual support at international forums.
Vietnam and Egypt boast a lot of potential to step up their collaboration, he said, pointing out similarities in population and development pace shared by the two countries.
However, he said, outcomes of cooperation in economy, trade and investment have yet to match their potential as two-way trade stood at only USD 350 million in 2016.
Given this, the Egyptian President’s visit is hoped to create a good foundation and open up opportunities for the two sides to set up long-term collaboration in various fields like trade, investment and culture.
Ambassador Long said up to 20 documents are expected to be signed during the visit.
He suggested the two countries create a favorable legal corridor and payment system in order to facilitate the operation of their businesses, while forging partnerships between the two countries’ enterprises through their chambers of commerce and industry and associations of business-people, especially those in major cities.
There should be a framework agreement on cultural cooperation between the two countries, he said, adding that the Vietnamese and Egyptian ministries of culture will sign a number of cooperation agreements.
The Vietnamese Embassy in Egypt has called for favorable conditions for cultural exchanges between the two countries’ artists, and suggested enhancing friendship between their big cities and establishing friendship associations between them.
The embassy has also proposed organizing a program to promote the image of late President Ho Chi Minh in Egypt, where he had dropped in for three times, laying the foundation for the bilateral ties, the ambassador said.
He called on the two countries to intensify their affiliation in other realms like politics, national defense and security and counter-terrorism.
Source: VNA