PM Phuc highlights plenty of opportunities for stronger Vietnam- Italy ties

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Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc welcomes Chairman of the Italy-ASEAN Association (IAA) Enrico Letta (L)

At a reception in Hanoi on December 19 for the visiting Chairman of the Italy-ASEAN Association (IAA) Enrico Letta, PM Phuc lauded the IAA’s plan to hold the third High-level Dialogue on ASEAN-Italy Economic Relations in Hanoi next year, which will be a good opportunity to further tighten economic links between Italy and ASEAN member states, including Vietnam. 

The government leader also assured Vietnam’s willingness to offer optimal conditions for the successful organization of the event. 

Letta, who is also former Prime Minister of Italy, said the IAA is holding meetings on preparations for the dialogue, which is expected to further enhance the relationship between Italy and Vietnam.

He described the event as an opportune occasion to reinforce bilateral cooperation between the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and Italy, and between Italy and Vietnam.

The IAA leader said the Italian and Vietnamese economies have similarities and Vietnam is the gateway to ASEAN, while Italy is the gateway to Europe.

The IAA hence selected Hanoi as the venue for this important dialogue on the threshold of 2020, when Vietnam will take over as chair of ASEAN, he noted.

Letta also congratulated the Vietnamese football team on winning the AFF Suzuki Cup 2018, while showing his hope that both sides will have plentiful opportunities to cooperate in this field in the near future, and that Vietnamese players will have the chance to participate in an Italian football tournament.

He assured that his nation will continue to support and accelerate the signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). He said he hoped two-way trade between Vietnam and Italy will grow stronger, doubling the years to come.

PM Phuc suggested Italy, the IAA and Letta urge the EU to soon adopt the EVFTA, thereby greatly benefiting the two sides’ enterprises and people.

The Vietnam Ministry of Foreign Affairs, relevant ministries, and Hanoi authorities would work hand in hand to ensure the successful organization of the dialogue. He said he hopes after the event, Vietnam-Italy trade will see higher growth in the future.