Vietnam and the Philippines agreed to establish their strategic partnership during President Truong Tan Sang’s visit to attend the 23rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting in Manila, the Philippines.
 |
| Vietnamese President Truong Tan Sang (second from left) and Philippine President Benigno Aquino witnessed the signing of a joint statement on strategic partnership between the two countries__Photo: VNA |
A joint statement to this effect was inked by the two countries’ Foreign Ministers following the talks between President Truong Tan Sang and his Philippine counterpart Benigno Aquino on November 17.
During their talks, the Presidents held that the strategic partnership was significant as it ushered in a new era for the bilateral ties, while contributing to maintaining peace, prosperity and stability in the region.
They discussed major plans to promote the strategic partnership, including intensifying the exchange of delegations at all levels and organizing activities to mark the upcoming 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties next year in an effort to raise mutual understanding between the two countries' citizens.
At the same time, the two sides will continue operating cooperation mechanisms and increase the sharing of information and experience in all fields.
The two sides also agreed to foster solidarity and uphold the central role played by the Association of Southeast Asian Nations in major matters regarding the security and interests of each country, as well as the region at large.
They reiterated the importance of ensuring peace, stability, security, safety, and navigation and aviation freedom in the East Sea, while settling disputes at sea in line with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Benigno said the Philippines regarded Vietnam as an important rice supplier, and appreciated the two countries' collaboration in search and rescue activities.
In response, President Sang thanked the Philippines for recently releasing Vietnamese fishermen it had captured and suggested freeing the remainder, and pledged support for the country’s participation in the Trans-Pacific Partnership agreement.
After their talks, the two Presidents witnessed the handover of plans to supplement the rice trading agreement between the two countries during 2014-16.- (VNS/VLLF)
