PM Phuc asked both sides to foster all-around cooperation, especially in trade, investment, and other spheres they excel in. The two countries should foster ties between their youths to boost mutual understanding, as well as between their ministries and localities to effectively implement their agreements. He said Vietnam and China also need to deal with existing problems pertaining to economics, trade and investment to ensure balanced and sustainable ties.

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) and Chinese Ambassador Hong Xiaoyong (VNA)

Regarding the complex developments in the East Sea, Mr. Phuc said Vietnam and China should comply with the common perceptions shared by their senior Party and State leaders, and the bilateral agreement on basic principles guiding the settlement of maritime issues. Both sides should resolve disputes by peaceful means in accordance with international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea, while managing disputes and avoiding actions that might complicate or expand disputes in the East Sea. China, together with ASEAN, need to fully and effectively enforce the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea, to push forward a Code of Conduct, and to maintain peace and stability at sea.

Ambassador Hong stressed the Chinese Party and State always wants to tighten bilateral links in all fields with Vietnam, particularly amid the current complexity in regional and global affairs. He said he hoped both countries would control maritime disagreements and information, and not let such matters affect the overarching relationship.