Co-operation between Vietnam and Malaysia has been steadily growing in an effective and substantial manner across multiple fields in recent years, according to Vietnamese Ambassador to Malaysia Le Quy Quynh during an inclusive interview given to Malaysian national news agency Bernama.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Malaysia Le Quy Quynh (Photo: VNA)

The news agency quoted the Vietnamese diplomat, who is set to conclude his working term on October 8, as saying that bilateral trade turnover is close to US$15 billion a year. In addition, people-to-people exchanges between the two nations have also been very encouraging, with increasing number of tourists travelling between the two countries.

Most notably, both nations have enjoyed the benefits of the long-standing friendship with excellent co-operation across a multitude of areas since the original establishment of diplomatic relations on March 30, 1973. Since then, mutual ties have flourished, especially after being upgraded to a strategic partnership back in 2015, Ambassador Quynh said.

The Ambassador also went on to express his confidence that, with the secure foundation provided by the Strategic Partnership, relations between the two sides will continue to prosper moving forwards.

Furthermore, the local diplomat explained that this year represents an important milestone for both countries, with Vietnam taking on the dual role of the rotating Chair of ASEAN and a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, while Malaysia is serving as Chair of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum.

The two nations, along with other ASEAN member states, have exerted great efforts to develop a united community that contributes to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region and throughout the world, Ambassador Quynh added.

During the interview the Ambassador assured Bernama about the country’s readiness to offer optimal conditions for Malaysian businesses and investors to work locally, explaining that the two sides will continue to bolster co-operation in fields such as food technology and car manufacturing.

Moreover, the nation is willing to work with Malaysia in the areas of supporting industries, smart city construction, high-tech agriculture, and other fields that can be considered strengths of Malaysia.

The Vietnamese diplomat concluded by saying that he hopes the Malaysian Government will continue to allow Vietnamese delegations to visit, learn, and exchange experience in areas where Malaysia is strong, including urban planning and economic development,. In return, the country will create the best possible conditions for Malaysian delegations.