(VOVWORLD) - Vietnam is proud to have been one of the first countries in the region to recognize the independence of, and establish diplomatic relations with, Timor-Leste, President To Lam said on Thursday at a banquet in honor of Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta, who is on a state visit to Vietnam.
 President To Lam and President José Ramos-Horta. Photo: VOV
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Friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Timor-Leste have flourished for two decades, with increasingly consolidated political trust and active economic and trade ties, Mr. Lam said.
He expressed confidence that, with the strong political will and determination of the countries’ leaders and people, bilateral ties will strengthen, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in Southeast Asia and globally.
 Delegates attend the banquet in honor of Timor-Leste President José Ramos-Horta. Photo: VOV
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Praising Vietnam's achievements in national construction and development, President Ramos-Horta hailed Vietnam as a role model that Timor-Leste and many other emerging economies aspire to follow. He thanked Vietnam for its continuous support in Timor-Leste's journey toward ASEAN membership, saying Vietnam's assistance has been crucial in its preparation process.