The Chinese Vice President made the statement while receiving a delegation from the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), led by Ha Thi Khiet, member of the Secretariat and Head of the Commission for the Mass Organisation of the CPV’s Central Committee, in Beijing on May 11.

He described Ms Khiet’s visit as a continuation of the tradition of the senior party leaders of both countries holding regular meetings to promote mutual trust and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.

The Chinese leader congratulated Vietnam on its achievements during the Doi Moi (Renewal) process and said he was happy to see Vietnam recording some encouraging results as the country endeavours to get over the negative impacts of the global economic and financial crisis.

Ms Khiet reaffirmed that Vietnam always attaches a great importance to its relationship with China and will work to step up ties within a framework of “comprehensive cooperation, long-term stability, good-neighbourliness and friendship, looking towards the future”. 

Earlier, the Vietnamese official had held talks with Vice Chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee and Head of the United Front Works Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, Du Qinglin.

In a sincere and open atmosphere, they discussed in-depth issues of mutual concern, especially those regarding the national and religious policies of both countries.

The Vietnamese delegation will meet with Chinese ministerial officials and make fact-finding tours of several provinces and cities during their week-long visit which is scheduled to finish on May 16.