Vietnam and South Korea are determined to further develop their comprehensive partnership in the 21st century, in the interest of the two peoples and prosperity in each country, contributing to peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region and the world.
The affirmation was made by Party General Secretary Nong Duc Manh and South Korean President Roh Moo-hyun during Mr. Manh’s official three-day visit to the RoK, starting from November 14.
The two leaders agreed to promote economic cooperation, especially in investment, labor, shipbuilding, steel, seafood, shipping, tourism and sports, saying that through economic cooperation, Vietnam and South Korea could assist each other for mutual development. The two countries would strive to raise two-way trade to USD 10 billion in the next 5-7 years while taking effective measures to balance bilateral trade.
They also pledged to boost cooperation in international and regional organizations as well as multilateral cooperation within the framework of international and regional forums.
Mr. Roh Moo-hyun positively responded to Mr. Manh’s proposal that South Korea recognize Vietnam as a full market economy as soon as possible, saying that the recognition would help promote equal cooperation for mutual benefit between the two countries.
Speaking to the Korean business community on November 15, the Party leader, who has been awarded the title “Honorable citizen” of Seoul city, said Vietnam has always attached importance to a comprehensive, sustainable and long-lasting partnership with the RoK and affirmed the country’s commitment to assist RoK investors in Vietnam.-