Deputy PM holds phone talks with Swiss FM

Deputy PM Pham Binh Minh holds phone talks with Swiss FM Ignazio Cassis, June 11, 2020.

During their talks, the two sides expressed their pleasure at the fruitful development of the bilateral ties, especially the implementation of reached agreements during all-level delegation exchanges.

They agreed to step up delegation exchanges, particularly those at the high level, and effectively organize activities to celebrate the 50 th anniversary of Viet Nam-Switzerland diplomatic relations (1971-2021).

The ministers reached consensus on orientations to further strengthen economic and trade ties between the two countries, including accelerating the prompt signing of a free trade agreement between Viet Nam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) to support their economies overcome the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Ignazio Cassis spoke highly of Viet Nam’s efforts in its role as ASEAN Chair and a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council amidst the COVID-19 outbreak, stating that Viet Nam’s experience in fighting the disease could be used a source of reference for the international community.

The two officials emphasized that Viet Nam and Switzerland share many common views on international issues, including the maintenance of peace and stability, the respect of international law, and the realization of the UN’s sustainable development goals.

Minh spoke highly of Switzerland’s commitment to funding international cooperation in preventing, controlling and mitigating the impact of COVID-19, saying Viet Nam stands ready to join the European country’s efforts against the epidemic.

They agreed to continue enhancing coordination in optimizing cooperation potential between ASEAN and Switzerland in 2020 when Viet Nam serves as ASEAN Chair.

                                                                                                        By Vien Nhu