China, Vietnam consent to control differences at sea

On July 16, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc held talks with Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Gaoli on measures to step up cooperation in various realms and push up the sustainable development of the economic and trade links.

Both countries will study and build cross-border economic zones, join hands in ironing out snags in Chinese projects in Vietnam and encourage border localities to intensify exchange and collaboration to expand economic activities in the border areas.

Phuc praised China’s affirmation to import Vietnamese forestry and agricultural products in addition to supporting Vietnam in building infrastructure facilities and developing healthcare and education in border provinces.

In regard to the East Sea issue, both sides agreed to respect the common perceptions of the two Parties and countries on effectively controlling differences at sea without taking activities that complicate the circumstances further, strictly implementing the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and settling disputes through peaceful measures in conformity with international law.

Later on the same day, Deputy PM Phuc and Chinese Vice Premier Zhang witnessed the signing of a plan to realize a 2016-2018 cultural agreement between the two nations.

(VOV)