The agreement was reached during talks in Hanoi between Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and his visiting Timor Leste counterpart Kay Rala Xanana Gusmao.

They agreed to assign relevant ministries and agencies to speed up negotiations and sign an agreement on investment encouragement and protection as soon as possible.

 

They said the two countries need to effectively implement a Vietnam-Timor Leste framework agreement on economic and technological cooperation signed in April 2010, and convene the first session of the joint commission soon to discuss specific areas of cooperation.

The two PMs hailed the signing of a bilateral trade agreement during Gusmao’s visit as an important legal foundation for facilitating economic and trade cooperation.

Dung congratulated Timor Leste on its achievements in national construction and development over the past decade.

Gusmao expressed his admiration for Vietnam’s past struggle for national liberation and its current Renewal achievements.

Both host and guest exchanged views on a number of regional and international issues of mutual concern. They said Vietnam and Timor Leste will increase coordination at multilateral organisations and forums.

Dung voiced his support for Timor Leste’s bid to join the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and said Vietnam will work closely with other ASEAN countries to realise Timor Leste’s desire.

Regarding the recent East Sea dispute, the two PMs stressed the need to ensure marine security and safety and maintain peace and stability in the region.

Gusmao said he supports ASEAN’s stance on the East Sea, including the ASEAN six-point principles on the issue.

After talks, PMs Dung and Gusmao witnessed the signing of the bilateral trade agreement between Vietnam and Timor Leste.

At a press briefing later, Dung said Gusmao’s September 3-4 visit marks a milestone in Vietnam-Timor Leste relations, adding fresh impetus to the ties of friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries.

Gusmao expressed Timor Leste’s desire to boost cooperation in potential areas with Vietnam and said his government will create favourable conditions for Vietnamese businesses to operate efficiently in the country.

The same day, PM Guamso met with State President Truong Tan Sang. 

VOV