VietNamNet Bridge – Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh and his Chinese counterpart Senior Lieut. Gen. Chang Wanquan discussed defence ties between Vietnam and China over the phone on December 31.

Defence Minister General Phung Quang Thanh (baochinhphu.vn)

During their talks, which took place on the occasion of the establishment of a direct communication line between the two defence ministries, the two ministers said defence cooperation has brought about pragmatic outcomes for each side.

The affiliation is one of the major pillars in the relationship between Vietnam and China that has contributed to maintaining peace, stability, cooperation and development in the region, meeting interests of each country’s people, they said.

It has also helped settle differences between the two countries on the basis of common perceptions reached by their leaders, they noted.

The two ministers agreed to step up defence collaboration, especially the exchange of all-level delegations and the realisation of signed agreements, contributing to enhancing the Vietnam-China comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership in a healthy and stable fashion.

They described the formation of the direct communication line as new cooperation content between the two countries which demonstrates their mutual trust and creates favourable conditions for the two countries’ armies to swiftly discuss issues relating to the bilateral defence ties.

The two ministers used the occasion to exchange their New Year greetings.  

VNA