Both sides briefed each other about the situation in their respective countries, reviewed bilateral relations and discussed a number of measures to boost future cooperation.

They expressed their satisfaction with the ties of friendship and cooperation which have grown substantially in various fields, based on the spirit of “Strategic partnership toward the future” approved by the two countries during former President Nguyen Minh Triet’s visit to Spain in late 2009.

Spain praised Vietnam’s socio-economic development achievements in recent years, affirming its willingness to support Vietnam’s relations with the European Union (EU) and Latin American nations, and its candidacy for the UN Human Rights Council in the 2013-2016 term.

Vietnam shared sympathy and believed that Spain will overcome the pubic debt crisis to continue developing. The country spoke highly of Spain’s increasing status and role in the EU and in the world, and agreed that both countries will coordinate and support each other at international multilateral forums.

Both sides agreed to facilitate cooperation in economics, trade and investment and accelerate the implementation of Spain-funded ODA projects in Vietnam on schedule, especially the project to build underground metro line No 5 in HCM City.

The same day, the Spanish Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs was received by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc.