HA NOI (VNS)— The United States should show greater flexibility in working with Viet Nam on TPP (Trans-Pacific Partnership) negotiations, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh said yesterday.
In talks held with visiting US Secretary of State John Kerry, Minh said Viet Nam attaches great importance to developing relations with the US.
He proposed that the two sides increase exchange visits by delegations of officials at different levels, ministries and sectors.
In their talks, Minh and Kerry discussed measures to enhance the comprehensive partnership that both countries have established in different fields.
Minh welcomed the US's grant of US$4.2 million to help improve Viet Nam's capacity in the TPP negotiation process and urged greater technical support to facilitate its implementation as well.
He also proposed that the US Government opens its door wider for Vietnamese farm produce and limit anti-dumping and anti-subsidy moves against Vietnamese exporters.
The two countries should strengthen co-operation in science and technology, education and training and healthcare, Minh said.
Like other national leaders, Minh urged the US to make greater efforts in helping Viet Nam deal with war consequences including the search for Vietnamese soldiers missing in action.
Kerry reciprocated Minh's sentiments on the importance of US-Viet Nam bilateral relations, saying the comprehensive partnership established by the two sides was important and meaningful.
He reiterated the US attached great importance to its relations with Viet Nam under its general policy for the Asia-Pacific region.
He reiterated the US attached great importance to its relations with Viet Nam under its general policy for the Asia-Pacific region.
Kerry hailed the progress made so far in the TPP negotiations and affirmed that the US would soon complete internal procedures to sign the "123 Agreement" (on co-operation in using nuclear energy for peaceful purposes) with Viet Nam.
The US would also increase support for Viet Nam in dealing with Agent Orange impacts and clearing UXOs, he said.
He also promised increased support for Viet Nam on the issue of ensuring security of the Mekong River's water resources via the Lower Mekong Initiative.
He noted that the US has already pledged funding of USD17 million to help Viet Nam cope with climate change impacts.
The two leaders discussed measures to increase bilateral co-operation at regional and international forums and affirmed they would work together towards ensuring peace, stability and co-operation in the East Sea, as also maritime and aviation safety and security.
They reiterated their firm belief in the peaceful resolution of East Sea disputes in line with relevant international laws.
