PM challenges Belgian Ambassador to raise trade to US$ 3 bln

PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives newly accredited Ambassador of Belgium to Viet Nam, Paul Jansen, Ha Noi, November 23, 2018 - Photo: VGP/Quang Hieu

PM Phuc made the above statement at his reception for the newly accredited Ambassador of Belgium to Viet Nam, Paul Jansen at the Government Office on Friday.

The Government chief however challenged the diplomat, with his rich experience, to increase the bilateral trade volume to US$ 3 billion in the near future as the bilateral cooperation remains potential.

Viet Nam has actively prepared for official implementation of the Viet Nam-EU free trade agreement, said PM Phuc, calling on Belgium to take a role in accelerating official signing and ratification of the trade deal by the EU side.

He also suggested both countries intensify education cooperation in order to help the Southeast Asian country to produce high-quality workforce.

Recalling his official visit to the European country, PM Phuc said he expects to welcome his Belgian counterpart to Viet Nam soon.

Jansen affirmed Belgium supports the FTA between Viet Nam and the EU, asking the Government of Viet Nam to consider visa exemption for Belgian citizens to boost tourism and cultural exchanges.

The diplomat also said Viet Nam and Belgium should also back each other and coordinate closely in such fields like peace-keeping operation and climate change response./.

By Thuy Dung