The first official visit of an Estonian Prime Minister to Vietnam since the two countries established diplomatic ties marked a significant milestone in their relations and elevated it to a new height, said Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung
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Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung shakes hands with his Estonian counterpart Andrus Ansip, Ha Noi, November 7, 2011
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The Vietnamese Government chief made the comment on November 7 in Ha Noi at a ceremony to welcome his Estonian counterpart Andrus Ansip.
The two Government leaders expressed their pleasure to witness to the robust progress in the multifaceted ties between Vietnam and Estonia.
Prime Minister Dung said he treasured the role of Estonia in the region and the world, expressing his hope to develop the bilateral ties with the country.
Mr. Dung also recommended the two sides boost reciprocal visits to consolidate and reinforce mutual understanding and better the organization of the 20th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2012.
Vietnam hopes to seek further support from Estonia for bettering its ties with the EU and gaining the EU’s recognition for its market economy status, said Prime Minister Dung.
The Vietnamese Government chief suggested that the two countries should take positive and efficient measures to raise the current modest trade volume which stood at over US $10 million in 2010.
The two countries should also sign anti-dumping tax agreement as soon as possible and adopt more favorable policies for their investors in such areas as infrastructure, biological technology and IT.
Vietnam is willing to export key items like farm products, peanuts, coffee and garments to Estonia, and import woodworks and chemicals from the European country, affirmed Mr. Dung.
Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung also proposed the two countries to grant visa exemption for diplomatic and official passport holders, and coordinate at regional and international forums, especially the UN.
He highly valued Estonia’s support for the settlement of issues in the East Sea via peaceful negotiation and international laws.
For his part, Estonian Prime Minister Andrus Ansip voiced his support for Mr. Dung’s suggestions especially those concerning wider economic and trade ties between the two sides.
Mr. Andrus Ansip said he hoped that the Vietnamese Government would create more favorable condition for Estonian investors to partner in projects on transport infrastructure, seaports, electronics, and e-commerce in Vietnam.
The guest leader also highlighted his backing for peaceful and rule-based solutions to international disputes including the East Sea issue and Vietnam’s better ties with the EU.
Right after the talks, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and his Estonian counterpart witnessed the signing of a cooperative protocol between the foreign ministries of Vietnam and Estonia./.