Viet Nam, China pledge to deepen scientific and technological cooperation

The meeting took place ahead of the 10th Mekong–Lancang Cooperation (MLC) Foreign Ministers' Meeting.

Both Bui and Wang voiced satisfaction with recent socio-economic achievements in each country and welcomed the positive momentum in the Viet Nam–China relations.

Bui called for close coordination to organize high-level exchanges and visits, advance substantive defense and security cooperation, and improve the quality and effectiveness of collaboration across sectors. 

He stressed the need to boost cooperation in priority areas such as railway projects—particularly the Lao Cai–Ha Noi–Hai Phong route scheduled to begin construction in 2025—balanced and sustainable trade, and major investment projects of symbolic significance. 

Bui also suggested both sides consider science and technology cooperation a new hallmark of bilateral ties.

Reaffirming Viet Nam's commitment to the MLC framework, the Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister appreciated China's contributions and the joint efforts of Mekong countries over the past decade, and called for strengthening sustainable management and use of Mekong–Lancang water resources.

For his part, Wang affirmed China's readiness to implement high-level agreements with Viet Nam, prioritize upcoming senior-level exchanges, expand economic and trade cooperation, increase imports of Vietnamese goods, enhance transport infrastructure connectivity, and promote high-quality investment.

He reiterated China's willingness to deepen cooperation in science, technology, and emerging sectors in line with the development strategies of both countries.

Acknowledging Viet Nam's active role in the MLC, Wang called on member states to intensify coordination for another successful decade, broaden cooperation areas, and deliver tangible benefits to their people, contributing to peace, development, and prosperity in the region.

On maritime issues, both sides agreed to manage differences constructively and maintain peace and stability in the East Sea. Deputy Prime Minister Bui underlined the respect for each other's sovereignty, sovereign rights, and jurisdiction over maritime zones as defined by international law, especially the 1982 UNCLOS; avoidance of unilateral actions that could escalate tensions; proper handling of incidents involving fishing vessels and fishermen; and continued pursuit of peaceful dispute settlement.

Both sides also compared notes on regional and international issues of mutual concern.

Later the same day, Deputy Prime Minister Bui met with Lao Foreign Minister Thongsavanh Phomvihane./.