The State President made the statement at a reception in Hanoi on February 4 for Karel Pleva, Chairman and CEO of the Export Guarantee and Insurance Corporation (EGAP) of the Czech Republic.

Mr Triet praised EGAP for its efficient operation in Vietnam and hoped that its successful projects would lure more Czech businesses to Vietnam.

Coming to our country, Czech businesses are welcomed as not only investors but also friends of Vietnamese people, said Mr Triet.

He affirmed that both Vietnam and the Czech Republic have treasured the long-standing friendship, saying the former Czechoslovakia (now the Czech Republic) provided its heart-felt support to Vietnamese people in their past struggle for national liberation and the current process of national development.

Vietnam wants to increase comprehensive cooperation with this European Union member, especially in economics, trade and investment, said Mr Triet.

CEO Pleva briefed Mr Triet on a number of projects that EGAP has guaranteed in Vietnam, including Phu Son Cement Plant, Hanoi-Hai Phong Expressway and Quang Binh Clay Production Plant. He assured Mr Triet that his corporation is interested in cooperation projects between the two countries and will do its best to make these projects efficient.