The two vice presidents reviewed recent political and economic developments and discussed measures to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Vice President Ansari welcomed VP Doan’s first visit, which he said would help to foster closer ties between the two countries. He conveyed his deep sympathy for the victims of tropical storm Ketsana.

Mrs Doan praised India’s great achievements over the past 60 years and the economic reforms that have steadily improved India’s status in the region and the world. She commended the Indian Government’s efforts to prepare for the signing of a memorandum of understanding acknowledging Vietnam as a genuine market economy. 

The two vice presidents agreed to continue fostering the relationship at regional and international forums such as ASEAN-India, the East Asia Summit, and the UN non-alignment movement. Mrs Doan affirmed that as ASEAN’s president in 2010, Vietnam will further boost co-operative relations between the two countries.

The visit coincided with the Vietnam-India Business Forum, which was held in New Dehli attracting a large number of Vietnamese and Indian businesses.