Cooperation potential between Ho Chi Minh City and European Union (EU) countries is huge, especially in trade and investment, Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan has said.
At his meeting with Chairman of the European Parliament’s International Trade Committee Bernd Lange on April 9, Quan said 23 European countries have invested in 600 projects in the city while two-way trade reached 6 billion USD by the end of 2014.
The conclusion and signing of a free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the EU in the coming time will bring about optimal conditions for both sides to foster their cooperation, he added.
Congratulating HCMCity on its attainments, Bernd Lange said his Vietnam visit coincides with the 25 th anniversary of the EU-Vietnam’s diplomatic ties, which will help further their friendship and mutual trust.
As the FTA talks is entering the final stage and its final say depends largely on the European Parliament, Vietnam and HCM City in particular, therefore, should provide concrete information to prepare for the next negotiation round, he noted.
He expressed his belief that the FTA ratification will deepen bilateral relations and help HCMCity address its shortcomings in urban infrastructure and climate change response.
It will also be a good opportunity for the city to receive an inflow of European investments, thus benefiting people of the two sides.
(Source: VNA)