Viet Nam and Indonesia need to strengthen cooperation in such potential areas as trade, investment and tourism, aiming to raise two-way trade to US$10 billion in the coming time.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung made the proposal at a reception for Sidarto Danusubroto, Speaker of the People’s Consultative Assembly of Indonesia, in Ha Noi on March 4.

PM Dung (R) proposed stronger cooperation between Viet Nam and Indonesia to raise two-way trade to US$10 billion in the coming time (Photo:VGP)

Dung noted bilateral relations have developed well in recent times, especially after the two countries established their strategic partnership in 2013. 

Both sides need to work harder to materialise cooperation agreements for mutual benefit and shared development, said the PM.

He suggested Viet Nam and Indonesia increase cooperation in science-technology, culture, education, national defence and security.

They need to accelerate negotiations on demarcation of the exclusive economic zones at sea, increase people’s exchanges, and educate young generations about the tradition and friendship between the two nations, he said.

Regarding the East Sea issue, PM Dung highly valued Indonesia’s six-point principle initiative, and asked parties concerned to strictly observe the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties (DOC) in the East Sea, and look to formulating the Code of Conduct (COC) in the area, for the sake of peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region.

He also proposed Viet Nam and Indonesia closely coordinate at regional and international forums, particularly the United Nations, and contribute to building a united, prosperous and strong ASEAN community in 2015.

For his part, Danusubroto expressed his hope Indonesia and Viet Nam will increase exchange and share experience in socio-economic development and national construction in each country.
He also stressed the East Sea issue should be settled through peaceful means, including dialogue, to help maintain peace in the region.

Earlier on March 3, National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung held talks with Speaker Sidarto Danusubroto. 

(Source: VOV)