PM hails UK Ambassador's contributions to growth of bilateral ties

ABO/NDO – Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has lauded contributions of UK Ambassador to Vietnam Giles Lever in specifying and implementing measures to boost the strategic partnership between Vietnam and the UK.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives UK Ambassador to Vietnam Giles Lever (Photo: VNA)

Meeting the outgoing UK Ambassador in Hanoi on June 6, the PM showed his pleasure at the growth of the Vietnam-UK relationship over the past years, with two-way trade reaching US$6.1 billion in 2017.

For his part, Lever agreed that bilateral relationship has been growing strongly. Recognising Vietnam’s progress in improving investment environment, he stated that the UK Government is willing to give technical support to Vietnam in the work. He expressed his delight at cooperation outcomes between the two countries in defence, security, and response to global challenges such as climate change and wildlife trafficking.

The diplomat said that the UK strongly supports the maintenance of security and maritime and aviation freedom in the East Sea and the observance of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea 1982.

PM Phuc thanked the UK Ambassador for his fine sentiments to Vietnam, holding that the two sides should continue promoting the reached achievements to elevate bilateral economic ties to a new level matching the two countries’ strategic partnership framework and cooperation potential. The two sides should coordinate closely in organising the upcoming meeting of the Vietnam-UK Joint Economic-Trade Committee, he said.

The Government leader stated that Vietnam hopes to continue receiving assistance from the UK through the Prosperity Fund, especially in the areas of climate change adaptation, environment, green energy and scientific research. The PM proposed that the two countries organise more exchange programmes to deepen mutual understanding, especially in 2018 when Vietnam and the UK celebrate their 45th anniversary of diplomatic ties.

Lever said that the UK Embassy in Vietnam has planned various cultural and educational activities to mark the special occasion.

(Source: NDO)