State President starts tour in Italy

VGP – Leading a Vietnamese high-ranking delegation, State President Nguyễn Minh Triết and his spouse on December 9 began an official visit to Italy at the invitation of Italian President Giorgio Napolitano.

December 10, 2009 8:00 AM GMT+7

Representatives of the Italian Government and the Holy See welcome Vietnamese State President Nguyễn Minh Triết (R) at the Ciamipino military airport, Italy, December 9, 2009 – Photo: VNA

This is the first official visit made by a Vietnamese State President since Việt Nam and Italy established diplomatic ties in 1973. The visit is expected to mark an important milestone for better bilateral ties, especially in the areas of politics, economics, trade, investment, culture and education.

The visit takes place when Việt Nam and Italy witness their fine relations flourishing. Italy wants to cement and deepen the multifaceted cooperation with Việt Nam and is willing to back the Southeast Asian country to foster links with the European Union.

Italy considers Việt Nam as one of the first priority partners for economic cooperation and an attractive destination of trade and investment with a vision towards 2020.

The two-way trade volumes have surged over the past years, reaching around US $1.7 billion in 2008 and US $860 million in the first seven months this year.

As scheduled, State President Nguyễn Minh Triết will hold talks with his Italian counterpart on December 10.

By Kim Loan