Deputy PM, FM Pham Binh Minh told reporters at a press conference after holding talks with Vice President of the European Commission (EC) and High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Catherine Ashton in Ha Noi on August 12.

He said that during the talks, both sides expressed pleasure with positive developments of the bilateral ties in all fields, especially in economics, trade, investment and development cooperation.

He appreciated the support of the EU and its member countries to Viet Nam’s socio-economic development and international integration while speaking high of the Union’s decision to increase official development assistance (ODA) for the country to €400 million for the 2014-2020 period, up 30 percent compared to that of the 2007-2013 period.

The two sides agreed to enhance the exchange of high-level delegations, foster consultation and coordination at regional and international forums while continuing to create favorable conditions for their businesses to invest in each other’s market, and boosting cooperation in education, technology, environment, climate change response and national defense and security.

Deputy PM Minh expressed his belief that after the PCA is approved, the FTA is inked and Viet Nam’s market economy is recognized, bilateral ties will turn into a new cooperation era.

Viet Nam supports the EU’s deeper participation into regional issues and strive further to elevate the ASEAN-EU relations to a new height, Minh affirmed.

The guest affirmed the EU’s commitments to continue to support the country’s development and enhance bilateral ties in the future.

Regarding the East Sea issues, EC Vice President Aston stressed that the union wants and urges all sides to seek peaceful solutions via dialogues and cooperation in accordance with international law, without threat of use of force.

She highly evaluated Viet Nam’s role in the ASEAN and expressed her hope that Viet Nam will actively join international activities, particularly participation in the United Nations’ peace keeping force.