Rwanda wants to share experiences and strengthen cooperation with Vietnam in economics, trade, education and healthcare services, particularly in irrigation, wet rice cultivation and poverty reduction.
The statement was made by visiting Rwandan President Paul Kagame during talks with his Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Minh Triet in Hanoi on May 23.
President Kagame praised Vietnam’s achievements in socio-economic development, especially in agricultural production and poverty reduction. He said that both countries should overcome the obstacle of geographic distance to promote all-round cooperation.
Meanwhile, President Triet thanked Rwanda for supporting Vietnam’s membership in the World Trade Organisation (WTO) and the United Nations Security Council. He affirmed that Vietnam welcomes Rwandan officials and experts to learn from the country’s development experience and seek cooperation opportunities.
During the talks, the two presidents briefed each other on the socio-economic situation in their respective countries and discussed measures to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the future.
They shared the view that bilateral political ties have developed well, but economic and trade cooperation remains modest. Therefore, they said that the two countries should strengthen cooperation in the areas of their strength such as education, science, technology, agriculture and healthcare services.
The same day, the two Presidents witnessed the signing of three cooperation agreements on health care, education and agriculture between the two countries.
Later in the afternoon, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung received the Rwandan President who said Rwanda wants to be Vietnam’s reliable partner.
The President said that his country wants to develop cooperation with Vietnam in the areas of mutual interest as well as at international forums. He also pledged to help Vietnam expand relations with other countries in Africa.
Prime Minister Dung affirmed that Vietnam attaches importance to developing ties with African friends, including Rwanda.
“Vietnam wants to strengthen cooperation with Rwanda in such areas as rice and cash crop cultivation, aquaculture, education, healthcare services, trade, investment, tourism and information technology,” said Mr Dung.
He welcomed representatives from Rwandan ministries and businesses that explore cooperation opportunities in Vietnam and said the Government encourages Rwandan businesses to establish links with their Vietnamese counterparts for mutual interest.
In the evening, President Triet gave a banquet in honour of President Paul Kagame and his entourage.
On May 24, President Kagame will make a fact-finding tour of the Vietnam Fruit and Vegetable Research Institute and Sai Dong Industrial Park.
President Kagame began a four-day official visit to Vietnam on May 23 at the invitation of President Nguyen Minh Triet.
Source: VOV