During their meeting, Mr Triet and Mr Lavrov expressed their satisfaction with recent improvement in Vietnam-Russia ties, especially in politics, security-defence, economics, trade, culture, education and technology.

President Triet said he believes the Vietnam-Russia strategic partnership will become closer and more effective through visits by the two countries’ senior leaders. He said the Russian Federation is an important partner and a faithful, reliable friend of Vietnam. He also praised Russia’s contributions to ASEAN.

The Vietnamese leader told the Russian foreign minister that Vietnam is actively preparing to welcome Russian President Dmitry Medvedev to the second ASEAN-Russia summit.

Meanwhile, Minister Lavrov said he is confident that Mr Medvedev’s visit to Vietnam will add momentum to the strategic partnership and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Russia. He declared that Russia fully supports ASEAN in its efforts to strengthen security in Asia.