Viet Nam and Italy on 14 December agreed on plans for post-pandemic economic recovery and optimising the benefits to be gained from the EU-Viet nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), thus boosting economic ties between the two countries.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Dang Hoang Anh speaks at the meeting. (Photo: VNA)

During the sixth meeting of the Joint Commission on Economic Cooperation, held online, the two sides also reviewed cooperation in economy and trade, especially in the fields of energy, industry, industrial machinery, garments and textiles, footwear, and mining.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Dang Hoang Anh said the traditional bilateral friendship and cooperation have been enhanced over recent times, adding that Viet Nam acknowledges the attention it receives from Italy.

As the ASEAN Chair 2020, Viet Nam congratulated Italy on its position as an ASEAN development partner, paving the way for closer cooperation between the country and member countries of the bloc, he said.

Italian Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Manlio Di Stefano regarded Viet Nam as a “bright spot” in economic growth amid the severe impact of the pandemic.

The next meeting will be held in Italy in 2021.

Source: VNA