The National Assembly Chairman of Vietnam, Tran Thanh Man, met with Guinea-Bissau President Umaro Sissoco Embaló, signifying the first head-of-state visit since diplomatic ties were established in 1973. The leaders discussed enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade and parliamentary diplomacy, while highlighting Vietnam as a model for Guinea-Bissau in development and poverty reduction.
On Saturday, National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man welcomed the visiting President of Guinea-Bissau, Umaro Sissoco Embaló, in Hanoi. This visit, taking place from September 5-8, marks the first head-of-state exchange between Vietnam and Guinea-Bissau since establishing diplomatic relations in 1973, highlighting the potential to strengthen their traditional friendship.
Chairman Man expressed hope for a successful parliamentary election in Guinea-Bissau scheduled for November 24, 2023, emphasizing it could create new opportunities for the nation’s development. President Embaló acknowledged Vietnam as a model for Guinea-Bissau, not only regarding its historical struggle for independence but also its contemporary efforts in poverty alleviation.
The leaders stressed the importance of enhancing bilateral cooperation. Chairman Man underscored the need for more exchange at various levels and avenues, including party and legislative channels. He also pointed out that the current two-way trade fails to reflect the aspirations of both nations and called for increased economic collaboration.
Key areas for cooperation include enhancing trade in rice, cashew nuts, textiles, footwear, and agro-fisheries, while also exploring sectors such as health, education, and the sea-based economy. Man encouraged both legislatures to engage in parliamentary diplomacy to fortify their ties.
The discussions included proposals for sharing experiences, coordinating on international issues, and mutual support in multilateral forums. Mr. Man expressed Vietnam’s readiness to deepen relations with regional bodies, including the Pan-African Parliament and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Parliament, aiming to consolidate their friendship for mutual prosperity and global peace.
The meeting between Chairman Tran Thanh Man and President Umaro Sissoco Embaló presents a significant step in strengthening Vietnam-Guinea-Bissau relations, marking an important diplomatic exchange since 1973. Key discussions ranged from parliamentary cooperation to economic collaboration in vital sectors. Both leaders expressed confidence in fostering their traditional friendship, with a particular emphasis on mutual support in international arenas, all aimed at achieving peace and prosperity in their respective regions.
Original Source: vovworld.vn
