At talks with Albanian Foreign Minister Edmond Haxhinasto in Hanoi on November 24, Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh welcomed his official visit to Vietnam, describing it as an important landmark in strengthening the ties of friendship and traditional cooperation between Vietnam and Albania.

The two FMs informed each other about the situation in their respective countries and exchanged views on issues related to bilateral ties.

Mr Minh praised Albania’s achievements during the process of promoting national construction and development, European integration, and consolidating its international status.

In pursuit of the external policy of international and regional integration for peace, cooperation and development, Vietnam always attaches great importance to developing friendship and cooperation with traditional friends, including Albania.

For his part, the Albanian diplomat also spoke highly of Vietnam’s renewal achievements, adding that his country is keen to expand and enhance its time-honoured friendship with Vietnam.

The two FMs said that economic and trade relations between the two countries remain modest and agreed to promote an exchange of business delegations and organize business forums.

They also compared notes on international and regional issues of common concern, expressing their desire to closely coordinate at international and regional forums.

Albanian FM Haxhinasto invited Mr Minh to visit Albania and his invitation was accepted with pleasure.

After the talks, the two diplomats signed a protocol on cooperation between the two foreign ministries.

*** At the reception for Mr Haxhinasto on the same day, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung said his visit will contribute to further strengthening and expanding good relations between the two countries.

Mr Dung also called both nations to increase bilateral cooperation in their areas of potential, such as education and human resources training; support each other at international forums, especially the UN; and boost cross cultural exchanges, mutual trust and understanding.

He also asked the two sides to accelerate negotiations for signing cooperation agreements on double tax avoidance and investment protection, thus providing a legal foundation for enhancing cooperation in economics, trade and investment between the two countries.

Albanian FM Haxhinasto informed Mr Dung of the outcome of his talks with FM Pham Binh Minh saying that both sides agreed on a score of measures to boost cooperation in various fields, especially in education and training and economics.

He also agreed with Mr Dung’s proposals, noting that his country is keen to enhance cooperation with Vietnam at all levels and in potential areas, and promote people-to-people diplomacy with the country.