The Czech Government supports the early signing of a free trade agreement between Viet Nam and the European Union (EU), Czech Foreign Minister Lubomir Zaoralek has said.

The visiting Czech official made the statement at his recent talks with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh in Ha Noi, looking at steps to further strengthen cooperation between the two countries.

In addition, the Czech Government also backs the EU’s recognition of Viet Nam as a market economy, Lubomir Zaoralek said.

Lubomir Zaoralek, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Czech Republic, is seen in this file photo. Reuters

Regarding bilateral trade, the guest said the Czech Republic will give all possible support for Vietnamese goods to enter its market, including garment, footwear, and agriculture, forestry and fisheries products.

He also said his country will likely maintain its provision of official development assistance (ODA) to Viet Nam in the fields of education and health.

(Source: tuoitrenews)