During talks with New Zealand’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Murray McCully in Hanoi on January 26, Mr Khiem said McCully’s visit will deepen friendship between the two countries. He thanked New Zealand for creating favourable conditions for overseas Vietnamese people and students living and studying in the country. The establishment of the ASEAN-New Zealand-Australia Free Trade Area will open a new co-operative opportunity for the two countries, Mr Khiem said.

He also thanked New Zealand for backing Vietnam’s candidacy for non-permanent membership on the United Nations Security Council, saying he hopes New Zealand will continue to support Vietnam in its post as ASEAN chair.

Mr Murray expressed his pleasure at returning to Vietnam and seeing the country’s strong development. He agreed with Mr Khiem that the visit will create a firm foundation for co-operation in all fields between the two countries in the future.

*** Earlier, Mr McCully held a working session with leaders of National University and met with students of National Economics University.

Mr McCully said this year is very meaningful for Vietnam and New Zealand as the two countries will celebrate the 35^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties.

Professor Vu Minh Giang, vice director of National University said the university will co-operate with New Zealand in developing linking programmes with its famous universities, and seeking scholarships for Vietnamese students.