The Deputy PM highly valued Mr Li’s ongoing visit to Vietnam, saying it will help boost cooperation between Vietnamese localities and Yunnan, as well as the strategic partnership between the two countries.

He said he hopes that the two international border gates - Thanh Thuy of Vietnam and Tian Bao of China – will be put into operation as soon as possible to increase bilateral trade exchanges.

Mr Nhan also highlighted the great potential for cooperation between Vietnamese localities and Yunnan province, and said he believes bilateral relations will continue to develop for mutual benefit.

Governor Li spoke highly of the fruitful Vietnam-China relationship which has been nurtured by the Chinese Chairman Mao Zedong and Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh and their successors.

He showed keen interest in strengthening cooperation with Vietnam in economics, trade, education and training, culture, sports and physical training, and mineral exploitation.

** The same day, Mr Li was received by State President Truong Tan Sang who expressed his hope that when the Hanoi-Lao Cai Highway is completed, Vietnam-China two-way trade will increase sharply.

He proposed Yunnan cooperate with Vietnam in the field of high technology, one of the province’s strengths.

Governor Li described Vietnam-China relations a valuable asset and said Yunnan highly valued its friendship and solidarity with Vietnam.