(VOVworld) – Finding ways to boost development cooperation among Vietnam, ASEAN, and Russia are crucial in the context of complex global developments, said Vice President Nguyen Thi Doan. She was speaking at the opening in Hanoi on Monday of a two-day international conference on developing cooperation between Vietnam, ASEAN, and Russia: "Russia’s and ASEAN’s mutual benefits in economics, military, maritime, security, and politics are significant. The establishment and development of Russia’s position in the Asia Pacific region will facilitate Russia’s development. Moreover, with the rise of many Asian countries, ASEAN countries have a huge demand for imported Russian goods. This requires a general and comprehensive look at ways to develop ASEAN-Russia ties."

Vice State President Nguyen Thi Doan speaks at the opening ceremony in Hanoi on September 15th, 2014

Ms. Doan said potentials for increased ASEAN-Russian cooperation remain huge despite tireless efforts from both sides, adding that current achievements reflect only a minor exploitation of both sides’ advantages. She said Vietnam, as a comprehensive strategic partner of Russia, has been well aware of the value of connecting ASEAN and Russia. She reiterated Vietnam’s consistent policy of joining other ASEAN members in boosting ASEAN-Russia ties in a comprehensive manner, contributing to global and regional peace, stability, cooperation, and development.

Participants will discuss and clarify key issues for cooperation among Vietnam, Russia, and ASEAN. They will evaluate potentials for comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Russia, the importance of ASEAN-Russian cooperation in ensuring peace and stability in Asia-Pacific, as well as Russia’s practical interests in the region. Delegates will also reiterate Vietnam’s role in Russia’s Look East policy, find obstacles facing the economic cooperation of Vietnam, ASEAN, and Russia, and seek priorities in ASEAN-Russian ties to best address shared regional issues.