Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung received a delegation from the Republic of Korea (RoK)-Viet Nam Friendship Association, led by its Chairman Kim Hack-yong, on January 9 in Ha Noi.

Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung (R) receives Chairman of the RoK-Viet Nam Friendship Association Kim Hack-yong

Highlighting the traditional ties that Viet Nam and the RoK have enjoyed over recent years, the PM noted that both sides have established a strategic partnership, fueling their collaboration in various areas including economy and trade.

The RoK is now the largest trade partner and the biggest investor in Viet Nam with a total investment of about 37 billion USD, he noted, adding that the two sides have recently concluded negotiations on a free trade agreement which is expected to be signed shortly.

Lauding the great contributions of the RoK-Viet Nam Friendship Association to the progress of bilateral relations, the Government leader expressed his hope that the association will continue its practical and effective activities to foster the bilateral friendship further and support the Vietnamese community in the RoK.

On his part, Kim Hack-yong, who is also a parliamentarian, said once signed, the bilateral FTA will open new affiliation prospects for both countries, especially in the fields of economy, trade, and investment. He pledged to continue contributing to the growth of the bilateral friendship, including increasing activities to enhance mutual understanding and trust between the two peoples.

He also vowed to offer any form of assistance possible to Vietnamese nationals studying and working in the RoK, helping them to better integrate into the host country’s society.