Shuvalov briefed Sang on the outcome of the 16th session of the Vietnam-Russia Inter-governmental Committee for Economic, Commercial, Scientific and Technological Cooperation, and the first Vietnam-Russia Economic Forum, which were both held in Hanoi on October 16.

He said the sub-committees of the two countries have worked closely to ease difficulties barring implementation of several projects, and established working groups on employment, migration, and infrastructure construction.

Russia is committed to providing credits for atomic energy complex projects and helping Vietnam attract foreign investment, said Shuvalov.

He noted bilateral economic and trade ties have progressed in recent times, but have yet to meet the potential and fine political ties of both sides.

Successful negotiations of a free trade agreement between the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan and Vietnam, and the establishment of the Eurasian Economic Union will help foster economic ties between the two countries and two regions, he said.

For his part, Sang said Vietnam and Russia need to deepen the comprehensive, strategic cooperation partnership for mutual benefit, and for stability and development in the region and the world.

He echoed Shuvalov’s view that with their growing trade ties both countries should increase bilateral investment cooperation in such key areas as oil and gas exploration, ship building and repairs, and military technology.

He proposed Vietnam and Russia re-examine signed agreements for amendments to finalise the legal corridor for stronger investment and business cooperation.

He also proposed relevant agencies of the two countries make careful, detailed plans for President Putin’s upcoming visit to Vietnam.

VOV