Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin expressed Russia's readiness to collaborate with Vietnam in establishing a nuclear power industry, highlighting the strong partnership between the two nations.

This announcement came during his official visit to Vietnam on January 14, following a formal reception and discussions with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.

Strengthening comprehensive cooperation

Prime Minister Mishustin emphasized the significance of this visit as an opportunity for both governments to review recent agreements and implement specific initiatives to advance bilateral relations.

Welcoming Prime Minister Mishustin on his first official visit to Vietnam, Prime Minister Chinh noted the event marked the start of celebrations for the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

The two leaders discussed political, economic, and social developments in their respective countries. They reviewed progress in various areas of cooperation and exchanged views on future directions for collaboration. The agenda also included discussions on regional and international issues of mutual interest.

Prime Minister Mishustin expressed admiration for Vietnam's socio-economic achievements and reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Vietnam, recognizing Vietnam as a key partner in Southeast Asia.

Prime Minister Chinh reiterated Vietnam's consistent foreign policy of independence, diversification, and multilateralization.

He stressed the importance of traditional friendship and strategic partnership with Russia as a top priority. Vietnam aims to work with Russia to ensure security, cooperation, and development both regionally and globally.

Expanding trade, technology, and education ties

Both sides acknowledged the positive growth in bilateral trade but noted untapped potential. They agreed on breakthrough measures to enhance trade value, including maximizing the Vietnam-Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement, where Russia is a key member.

Efforts to open markets for agricultural products, pharmaceuticals, and other goods were also discussed.

The leaders highlighted the vital role of the Vietnam-Russia Intergovernmental Cooperation Committee and acknowledged contributions from relevant ministries and sectors.

Both leaders reaffirmed the importance of scientific and technological collaboration, including the ongoing development of a Nuclear Science and Technology Research Center in Vietnam.

Prime Minister Mishustin reiterated Russia's experience in nuclear energy development and expressed readiness to assist Vietnam in establishing its nuclear power industry. Cooperation in health, labor, and pharmaceutical sectors was also proposed.

Cultural, educational, and tourism collaboration

The two leaders emphasized the importance of cultural and educational exchanges, agreeing to enhance Vietnamese language teaching in Russia and Russian language instruction in Vietnam. They also supported collaboration through the Vietnam-Russia Technical University Network.

Russia will continue providing scholarships for Vietnamese students in fields such as science, technology, and the arts.

Both sides encouraged cultural exchanges, art performances, and increased interaction between localities. Strengthened tourism cooperation was also highlighted, with agreements to resume regular and chartered flights between the two countries to boost tourist numbers.

Enhancing connectivity and resolving challenges

The leaders agreed to strengthen connectivity in transportation, including maritime, railway, and urban transport networks. For unresolved challenges, both sides assigned relevant ministries to study and propose solutions that balance mutual interests.

The two leaders also discussed international and regional issues, reaffirming their commitment to close cooperation and mutual support in multilateral forums.

Prime Minister Chinh expressed gratitude for Russia's support of the Vietnamese community in Russia and assured favorable conditions for Russian citizens living and working in Vietnam.

Following their talks, the two leaders signed a joint communiqué summarizing the visit's outcomes. They also witnessed the signing of several cooperation documents, including a memorandum of understanding between the Russian Ministry of Digital Development, Communications, and Mass Media and Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications. Another memorandum outlined cooperation in electronic and digital technology between Russia's Ministry of Industry and Trade and Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications.

Tran Thuong