(VOVworld) – Vietnam and the UK have committed to fostering trade and investment cooperation, considering it as a top pillar in their strategic partnership.

Deputy PM Vu Van Ninh (right) and UK Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs William Hague. (Photo: VNA)

The agreement was reached during talks between visiting Deputy Prime Minister Vu Van Ninh and UK Secretary of State for Foreign and Commonwealth Affairs William Hague in London on Wednesday. They agreed to create favorable conditions for the two business communities to access market and boost investment and trade in each nation.

The UK promised to assist it in restructuring its financial and banking system and developing a financial market.  The UK vowed to do its best to accelerate and conclude negotiations for the Vietnam – EU Free Trade Agreement this year and further help Vietnam intensify all-round ties with the bloc. It also backs the EU in recognising Vietnam as a market economy soon.

Mr. Ninh welcomed the British government’s measures and policies to encourage UK businesses to invest and do long-term business in Vietnam.

Discussing regional and global issues, the UK diplomat expressed his support for Vietnam’s stance on settling the East Sea dispute by peaceful means in line with international law. He said the UK expects Vietnam support the basic principles of international law in the settlement of disputes around the world. On this occasion, Mr. Ninh met with members of the Vietnamese community in the country.