The NA Chairman said his ongoing visit, together with support from both countries’ peoples, aims to deepen the Vietnam-India strategic partnership in all fields.

He assured his host that Vietnam is willing to work as a bridge for India to strengthen its multifaceted cooperation with ASEAN member nations and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA), thereby facilitating the implementation of India’s “look East” policy.

Mr Trong said he believed that under the leadership of President Patil, the bilateral relations would further develop and be elevated to a new level for mutual benefit and for peace and prosperity in the region and the world at large.

President Patil said she was impressed by Vietnam ’s great achievements and dynamic development, and applauded the accompanying entrepreneurs who came to India to seek opportunities to cooperate with local partners.

President Patil also praised the signing of the ASEAN-India Free Trade Agreement, stressing that while implementing its “look East” policy, India expects to expand relations with ASEAN countries, with priority given to Vietnam.

The same day, NA Chairman Trong attended the Vietnam-India Business Forum, which was jointly held in New Delhi by the two Chambers of Commerce and Industry of Vietnam and India.

Speaking to representatives of 300 businesses from both countries, Mr Trong affirmed that Vietnam will create favourable conditions for investors, citing its political and social stability, open investment environment, improved legal system and abundant workforce.

On the path of development, Vietnam needs cooperation and assistance from international friends, including India, because Vietnam faces difficulties in terms of capital, technology and infrastructure, he said.

He further stated that Vietnam always attaches importance to stepping up relations with India , which has played an important role in the region and the world as well.

Mr Trong stressed that the forum would open up a range of opportunities for businesses from the two nations to form and expand cooperative ties.

Deputy Director General of the Confederation of Indian Industry, Gurpal Singh, spoke highly of the organisation of the forum, saying that it benefits both sides to boost India-Vietnam cooperative relations.

While emphasising Vietnam as India’s important partner in its “look East” policy, Mr Singh expressed his wish that Indian enterprises would receive more help and support from the legislature and government of Vietnam.

On the morning of February 25, Chairman Trong also received Politburo member and Head of the International Department of the Communist Party of India-Marxist (CPI-M), Sitaram Yechury, and Deputy General Secretary of the Communist Party of India (CPI) S. Reddy.