PM Phuc holds phone talks with Indian counterpart over COVID-19 fight, bilateral ties

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shake hands at the Government Office in Ha Noi on September 3, 2016 as part of the latter's official visit to Viet Nam. Photo: VGP

    >>> Review of COVID-19 fight in Viet Nam since March 23

PM Phuc briefed about Viet Nam’s situation, experience and outcomes in responding to the COVID-19 pandemic through deployment of drastic measures to stem the spread of the virus while stabilizing growth and ensuring social security.

Phuc spoke highly of Modi and his Government for having taken prompt and comprehensive measures to cope with the pandemic, including a US$22 billion stimulus package to ease the economic impacts of the pandemic on the poor.

He affirmed that Viet Nam, within its capacity, stands ready to cooperate with and provide assistance to India in this fight.

Meanwhile, Modi highly valued Viet Nam’s efforts and measures to counter the COVID-19 pandemic.

The two leaders underlined the importance of close coordination and information-experience sharing in combating the pandemic.

The pair agreed not to let the pandemic disrupt the bilateral ties and pledged to work together to further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership across fields, particularly in such pillars like defense, trade, investment, energy, and culture.

They agreed to consider oil and gas cooperation as a strategic pillar of the bilateral ties in the time to come in a bid to realize the trade goal of US$15 billion.

Both sides also agreed to further foster coordination and cooperation at regional and international forums.

The Indian PM spoke highly of Viet Nam’s important role as the current ASEAN Chair, committing to continue support and collaboration with Viet Nam over regional and international issues of common concerns in the current context for peace and stability in the region and the world./.

By Huong Giang

Follow us on Twitter @VNGovtPortal