Seminar reviews Vietnam-Myanmar relations

The Institute for Southeast Asian Studies (ISAS), under the Vietnam Academy of Social Science, and the Myanmar Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ Institute of Strategic and International Studies (MISIS) jointly organised a seminar on ‘Vietnam-Myanmar relations: Reviewing and Planning’ in Hanoi on December 8.

President Truong Tan Sang and his Myanmar counterpart Thein Sein during President Sang's State visit to Myanmar in November 2012. (Credit: VOV)

The event attracted many scholars from institutes, universities, ministries, sectors and associations of both countries, as well as diplomats from different countries.

According to Ass. Pro. and Master Nguyen Duy Dung, ISAS President, Vietnam and Myanmar have a time-treasured relation with effective all-round co-operation. Through expansion of trade and investment; consolidation of collaboration inside and outside ASEAN; and mutual support in lifting embargos, joining ASEAN and resolving conflicts, both countries have reached strong consensus on internal, regional and international issues.

Many delegates agreed that the ongoing renewal process of Vietnam and the ‘seven-step democratisation roadmap’ of Myanmar have been enhanced, bringing encouraging achievements recognised by the international community. These developments not only facilitate elevating bilateral ties to a new height, but also make important contributions to consolidating regional security and co-operation in the future.

Pro. Ann Chit Tha from the MISIS said that both countries should promote co-operation in education, scientific studies, skills and human resource development, and priorities for sustainable development. He suggested further exchanges, including trade exhibitions and regular visits between the two countries’ business representatives. Tha also stressed the importance of maritime ties between the key ports of both countries.

Editor-in-chief of the Journal of Southeast Asian Studies Tran Khanh urged relevant agencies of both countries to develop a new agreement on encouraging investment and protection to replace the old one signed in 2000; and negotiate and sign a bilateral agreement on investment and trade co-operation in 12 sectors which both Governments agreed to in 2010. He also suggested establishing a Vietnam-Myanmar joint bank to facilitate transactions between the two sides.

Regarding political and security relations, delegates advised both countries extend the visa exemption for citizens of each country from nine days to one month as per ASEAN’s regulations; organise annual ministerial meetings between the two ministries of foreign and economic affairs and a biannual summit on promoting co-operation; elevate bilateral ties to strategic partnership in the near future; as well as enhance both countries’ roles in Mekong sub-region co-operation.

In addition, both countries should work closely with each other to enhance ASEAN co-operation, and expand and maintain peace in the East Sea and Andaman Sea.

(Source: VNA - Translated by NDO)