(VOVworld) - National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong has reaffirmed that Vietnam continually treasures its comprehensive strategic partnership with Russia – the partner of top importance - during her official visit to Russia from September 20-23. She said she believes that Russia will stand firm against today’s difficulties and challenges and continue to be a voice for peace, stability, and cooperation in the region and the world. Phong expressed gratitude to the Russian government and people for helping Vietnam in its past struggle for national liberation and during its current national development while meeting with Speaker of the Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko and Vice-Speaker Ilyas Umakhanov and during talks with First Vice Chairman of the Russian State Duma, Ivan Melnikov.

National Assembly Vice Chairwoman Tong Thi Phong meets Speaker of the Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko  (Source: VNA)

Ms. Phong hailed Russia’s backing of Vietnam at multi-lateral cooperative mechanisms, and its peaceful approach to disputes in the East Sea, and proposed strengthening delegation exchanges and information sharing for stronger ties between the Vietnamese NA and the Federation Council and the State Duma. At the meetings, both sides agreed that the two countries’ legislative bodies will soon ratify and coordinate in supervising the implementation of signed agreements to boost bilateral ties. Ms. Phong highlighted the important role of the Parliamentarian Friendship Groups of Vietnam and Russia in promoting bilateral ties: "The Parliamentarian Friendship Groups of Vietnam and Russia have been an effective dialogue channel between Vietnam and Russia. They have contributed significantly to creating closer bilateral ties and we have supported each other at international forums. Their active participation in visits by Russian leaders to Vietnam, and Vietnamese leaders to Russia, has enhanced our traditional friendship."