Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. (Photo: VNA)

Minister Lavrov told reporters on this occasion that both countries are enjoying fruitful trade ties, which will grow stronger in the coming years. Two-way trade hit a record 5.3 billion USD last year, he said, adding that direct contacts between Vietnamese and Russian producers and businesspeople should be further encouraged.

Regarding Russia’s role in regional institutions like ASEAN, ARF, and APEC, Mr Lavrov noted that Russia is working with its friends including Vietnam and other ASEAN nations and their partners to ensure stable and sustainable security, cooperation and development. He said Russia is appreciative of ASEAN’s central role in fostering dialogue on this issue.