Mr Triet spoke highly of Queensland's role in Vietnam's development cause and expressed his belief that cooperation between Queensland and Vietnamese localities will be lifted in the coming time.

Mr Triet welcomed Australian businesses to invest in Vietnam and said the country is doing its best to create an attractive investment environment for all businesses.   

The State President expressed his hope that the upcoming visit to Vietnam by Australian Prime Minister John Howard will be a chance for the two countries to discuss regional and global issues of mutual concern.

“Vietnam considers Australia an important partner and wants to develop comprehensive, long-term and stable cooperation with Vietnam bilaterally and multilaterally on the basis of mutual benefit,” said Mr Triet.

Mr Burns, who is accompanied by representatives of 20 businesses, praised the development achievements recorded by Vietnam during the last few years. He briefed his host on the relations between his state and Vietnamese localities, particularly Ho Chi Minh City, in such areas as education and training, fire fighting and urban transport.

He said Australian businesses have a good impression of Vietnam and praise Vietnam as a safe destination for investors and visitors.

Queensland plans to publish as book on Vietnamese investment opportunities, Mr Burns said.