Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Phạm Bình Minh had a bilateral meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, who is in Việt Nam for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in central Đà Nẵng City, yesterday. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI– Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Phạm Bình Minh had a bilateral meeting with Australian Foreign Minister Julie Bishop, who is in Việt Nam for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in central Đà Nẵng City, yesterday.

Bishop extended her sympathy for victims of typhoon Damrey, while lauding the Vietnamese Government’s efforts to overcome the consequences of the storm and to ensure the best conditions for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week.

The two sides expressed their delight at growth of the enhanced comprehensive partnership between Việt Nam and Australia, especially in trade, defence, security, education and development co-operation.

Both sides agreed to continue maintaining close consultation between the two foreign ministries, especially in dealing with difficult and sensitive issues.

They will co-ordinate closely in preparing for high-level visits to mark the 45th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2018, aiming to soon lift the two countries’ relationship to a strategic partnership.

Bishop affirmed that Việt Nam plays an important part in Australia’s foreign policies, adding that her country hopes to foster a practical, effective and in-depth partnership with Việt Nam. She appreciated Việt Nam’s co-operation in implementing Australia’s New Colombo Plan. So far, about 1,500 Australian students have arrived in Việt Nam for study and exchange.

Deputy PM Minh highly valued Australia’s official development assistance (ODA) projects which have helped improve the socio-economy, environment, support startups and promote gender equality in Việt Nam.

Both sides underscored support to each other during the running for seats in international organisations and important agencies of the United Nations.

They also shared viewpoints on regional security challenges, agreeing to work closely at ASEAN meetings.

On the occasion, Minh and Bishop attended the signing ceremony of an agreement implementing a AU$37 million project to promote gender equality in Lào Cai and Sơn La provinces using non-refundable ODA from Australia, aiming to assist local women in agricultural production and tourism development. — VNS