Minister Son described the first visit to Vietnam by Joly in the role as Canada's Foreign Minister as a contribution to reinforcing the relationship between both countries as well as between the two foreign ministries.
He emphasized that the visit is also of special significance as it takes place at a time of both nations celebrating the fifth anniversary of their comprehensive partnership (2017-2022).
The Canadian diplomat agreed on a range of measures aimed stepping up trade co-operation between businesses of the two countries, while also affirming that she would support the country with its climate change response and fulfillment of its commitments at the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26).
According to both FMs, bilateral relations continue to be consolidated and developed positively across multiple fields, with two-day trade turnover reaching more than US$6 billion in 2021, marking an increase of nearly 19% on-year despite facing difficulties and negative impacts caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Furthermore, bilateral co-operation in development, education-training, response to climate change, and epidemic response measures will continue to be strengthened.
The pair also compared notes on measures aimed at further deepening the two countries' relations ahead of the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2023.
Minister Son suggested that the two sides continue to intensify the exchange of delegations at all levels, quickly resume bilateral dialogue mechanisms, and make the most of opportunities from the implementation of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
He requested that the North American nation go ahead with the opening of its market for Vietnamese goods and agricultural product, as well as increasing support for the nation’s early recovery and socio-economic development moving out of the the COVID-19 pandemic.
The Vietnamese Minister also suggested that Canada quickly recognise Vietnam's vaccine passport, thereby creating favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Canada to stabilise their life, study, and work.
The two FM took time to exchange views on international and regional situations of shared concern. Regarding the East Sea issue, they underscored the necessity of upholding the observance of international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), consenting to continue working closely at regional and international multilateral forums such as the UN, APEC, ASEAN, and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF).
With regard to the Ukraine issue, Minister Son affirmed the country’s consistent stance, which steadfastly supports the settlement of international disputes by peaceful means on the basis of respecting the UN Charter and fundamental principles of international law.
Vietnam therefore calls for an immediate end to the use of force that causes casualties and damage to civilians, essential infrastructure, and ensuring the safety of civilians, including Vietnamese nationals residing in Ukraine.
The country stands ready to make active contributions to humanitarian assistance, diplomatic processes, dialogue and negotiations, as well as reconstruction efforts in Ukraine, Minister Son concluded.
