On the evening of December 17, President Triet met with Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico and the Speaker of the National Council.

President Triet highlighted Slovakia’s tremendous achievements during its process of integration and national development, especially its joining the European Union (EU).

The Slovak leaders praised Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements in the Doi Moi (Renewal) process as well as its rising prestige and status in the region and the international arena.

 The two sides expressed satisfaction at their significant progress in international integration over the past few years, and were committed to overcoming the negative impact of the global economic downturn.

Prime Minister Robert Fico voiced his support for Vietnam’s relations with the EU, its negotiations on the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with the EU and the EU’s early recognition of Vietnam as having a full market mechanism.

Slovakia will create the best possible conditions for Vietnam to take part in the multi-trade system and forge economic and trade links with EU members including Slovakia. Slovakia also supports abolishing the anti-dumping taxes on Vietnam’s leather-capped shoes, said Mr Fico.

Mr Triet and Slovakia’s government and parliamentary leaders agreed to promote cooperation in culture, education and vocational training. Slovakia also pledged to increase the number of scholarships for Vietnamese students and facilitate the oversea Vietnamese community and long-term businesses in the country.

Later the same day, President Triet and his Slovak counterpart Ivan Gasparovic delivered speeches at the Vietnam-Slovakia business forum.

President Gasparovic said that more and more Slovak and world businesses keen to invest in Vietnam, which is seen as a potentially lucrative market.

Over the past few years, Vietnam has been internationally known as a nation with socio-political stability, rapid economic growth and an open investment environment.

Mr Triet praised his Slovak counterpart for taking part in the forum, adding that Slovakia had made a major political decision when stepping up economic links with Vietnam.

He went on to say that the Slovak President and PM acknowledged Vietnam’s fight against anti-dumping tariffs on its leather-capped shoes.

President Triet called on Slovak businesses to increase their investment in Vietnam, particularly in areas such as energy, the environment, transport, defense and healthcare.

On December 18, President Ivan Gasparovic hosted a banquet in honour of President Triet and his wife.