Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc (r) receives Speaker of the Parliament of Iran Ali Ardeshir Larijani in Hà Nội on April 16. — VNA/VNS Photo Thống Nhất

HÀ NỘI — Iran wishes to promote ties with Việt Nam, Speaker of the Parliament of Iran Ali Ardeshir Larijani told Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc during their meeting in Hà Nội on April 16. 

During the meeting, Larijani mentioned the close friendship between Việt Nam and Iran over the past 45 years, saying that as the two countries’ celebration of the 45th anniversary of their diplomatic ties (1973-2018) this year will open up new opportunities to expand bilateral relations. 
The Parliament of Iran has recently approved a plan for the country’s development over the next five years which encourages foreign investment in oil and gas, petrochemistry, liquefied petroleum gas and agriculture, said the top Iranian legislator. 
Iran wants to work with Việt Nam in these areas, alongside information technology, cyber-security and environmental protection, he noted, adding that Iran will create all possible conditions for Vietnamese enterprises to do business in his country. 
To raise two-way trade to US$2 billion, he suggested that the two countries set up a direct air route and simplify visa procedures to boost tourism. He also urged better co-ordination between the two sides in finance and banking. 
PM Phúc, for his part, appreciated the proposals by his Iranian guest, saying they are closely aligned with the focus of the two nations’ co-operation. 
Welcoming Larijani to attend the Việt Nam-Iran business forum during his visit, Phúc said he has instructed agencies to invite to the event Vietnamese companies that are interested in developing partnerships with peers from Iran. 
He asked Iran to back Việt Nam’s candidacy for the UN Security Council from 2020-21 and suggested the two sides increase exchanges of high-level delegations and closely work together to host celebrations of the 45th anniversary of the Việt Nam-Iran diplomatic ties. 
Việt Nam encourages Iranian firms to trade and invest in the production of agricultural products and welcomes Iran’s co-operation in sea transportation, port construction and support industries, the PM said. 
He asked the central banks of Việt Nam and Iran to work out ways to remove barriers in payment between the two sides, thus facilitating trade. 
The Iranian leader agreed with PM Phúc, noting that he will direct relevant bodies to translate the ideas into reality for the benefits of both sides and for peace and prosperity in the region and the world at large. — VNS