Addressing the event, VGFA President Hoang Van Huay said similar seminars will also be held in Danang and Ho Chi Minh this year, in a bid to provide an insight into the significance of the Vietnam – Germany strategic partnership in politics, economics, education and training as well as prospects for future bilateral cooperation. 

Erwin Schweisshelm, head of the FES representative office in Vietnam, said the event offers the participants a chance to discuss prospects for bilateral cooperation between, thus further promoting friendship and cooperation between the two peoples. 

During the 2000 - 2012 period, Vietnam’s imports and exports to Germany saw a fourfold increase, reaching an annual growth of 16.6 percent. 

Tran Ngoc Quan, deputy head of the European Market Department under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, expressed thanks to the recovery of German economy and ceaseless efforts of the two Governments and business communities, especially since Vietnam and the EU started the negotiations on a free trade agreement in June, the two countries have been able to make the most of each side’s existing strengths. 

He said believes the two-way trade between Vietnam and Germany will hit US$6.5 billion this year and exceed US$10 billion by 2015. 

The same day, the VGFA also hosted a get-together to celebrate the 22nd National Day of Germany, the 37th anniversary of the Vietnam – Germany diplomatic ties and the first anniversary of the two countries’ strategic partnership.