NA Chairwoman receives Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation

National Assembly (NA) Chairwoman Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan (R) receives Italian Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Enzo Moavero Milanesi on May 7, 2019 - Photo: VNA

At the meeting, the NA Chairwoman expressed her delight on the developments of the two nations’ strategic partnership in fields of politics, diplomacy, trade, investment, culture-education, science-technology, security and defense, especially in the context of the 45^th　founding anniversary of diplomatic ties and the five-year anniversary of the establishment of strategic partnership.　

The two-way trade value reached nearly US$5 billion, she said, adding that the two nations will join hand to organize the third high-level dialogue on Italy-ASEAN economic relations in Ha　Noi　in next June, which will create an opportunity for strengthening economic and trade relations between Italy and nations in ASEAN, including Viet Nam-the largest trade partner of Italy in ASEAN. 　　

As one of founding members of the EU, Italy commits to supporting Viet Nam in the negotiation process of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), asserted the Italian Minister, hoping that the EVFTA will be inked and approved soon to create a force to boost trade and investment between Viet Nam and the EU in general and Italy in particular.　

Ngan　expressed thanks to Italy for providing the Official Development Assistance for Viet Nam, adding that projects sponsored by Italy have met practical demands of the nation’s sustainable development.　

She proposed the two sides enhance cooperation in areas of advantages and huge demand as well as Italy effectively launch the debt transformation programs for Viet Nam and back forest protection and environmental protection in the country.　

The occasion,　Ngan　conveyed her invitation to Italian　President of the Senate　and　President of the Chamber of Deputies　to pay official visits to Viet Nam in the time ahead.　

By　Thuy　Dung