The PM affirmed that Norway is a reliable partner of Vietnam, with bilateral relations growing over the years.
After the visit to Vietnam by the Norwegian PM in 2015, the two countries have implemented many effective cooperation activities in a range of fields, he said.
Newly-accredited Ambassador Lochen said she hoped the Vietnam-Norway relations will further develop during her working tenure in Vietnam.
The bilateral ties have been based on trade and investment activities, she said, adding that the two countries share common viewpoints in sustainable development, education, and cooperation in marine and ocean economy, including the issue of plastic waste.
PM Phuc emphasised the great potential in bilateral cooperation, citing that Norway’s current investment in Vietnam only stands at 41 projects worth US$41 million.
He asked the Norwegian ambassador to coordinate with Vietnamese relevant agencies to promote the bilateral trade and investment partnership.
The PM hoped the two countries will step up all-level delegation exchanges, especially at the high level, to create a premise for stronger cooperation between businesses.
He suggested that the ambassador organise activities to help enterprises meet and study business investment cooperation opportunities, focusing on the fields of Norway’s strength, such as shipbuilding, mineral, oil and gas, wind power, wood processing, information communication, science-technology, and the environment.
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A general view of the reception. (Photo: VGP)
The PM called on Norwegian firms to cooperate with Vietnamese partners in trade and bring Vietnamese farm produce to the Northern European country.
He asked Norway to urge the EU to soon ratify the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), saying this is a great opportunity for cooperation between the two countries and especially for businesses.
The PM proposed that Norway have measures to support the effective implementation of this agreement for mutual benefits.
Besides economic cooperation, Vietnam is interested in promoting cultural exchanges and tourism cooperation, he said.
He urged the two countries to boost ties in education and training, especially between universities.
The Norwegian ambassador said the two countries could enhance collaboration in sea-based economy and aquaculture.
She said Norwegian businesses are keen to collaborate with Vietnamese firms in energy, solar power, oil and gas, and hoped that relevant Vietnamese agencies will create the best conditions for bilateral cooperation in the aforementioned spheres.
PM Phuc affirmed that the Vietnamese Government will create all possible conditions for Norwegian businesses to invest in Vietnam.
