Oliver Dowden, co-chairman of the Conservative Party, made the remarks while welcoming Vietnamese Ambassador to the United Kingdom Nguyen Hoang Long in London on Feb. 22 to discuss bilateral relations and ways to strengthen the Vietnam-UK strategic partnership, VOV reported Wednesday

Vietnamese Ambassador to the UK Nguyen Hoang Long presents a gift to Co-Chair of the Conservative Party Oliver Dowden. Photo: VNA

Dowden outlined that his party backs the UK's participation in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) which involves 11 members, including Vietnam.

Hailing Vietnam's various development achievements, Covid-19 pandemic containment efforts, and strong commitments in dealing with climate change, he showed his elation at the two Governments’ stronger co-operation in climate change adaption. He also touched upon the February trip taken to Vietnam by Alok Sharma, British Cabinet Minister and President of the 26th UN Climate Change Conference (COP 26) for the implementation of the conference’s outcomes.

Dowden added his wish to see the two nations strengthen joint works in sectors that are the strengths of both sides, thereby fulfilling the existing potential in trade and renewable energy.

In response, the Vietnamese diplomat stated that the joint ties are at their best stage of development, with a greater opportunity for stronger collaboration ahead.

Bilateral trade hit US$ 6.6 billion, an annual rise of 17%, Ambassador Long said, adding that he believes that the figure will continue to rise for the sake of Vietnamese and UK enterprises and citizens.

Ambassador Long also briefed his host on Vietnamese foreign policy priorities, which always aims to ramp up relations with neighbouring countries and strategic partners, including the UK.

He went on to ask Dowden to assist the nation in carrying out co-operation projects and programmes with the UK, as well as to facilitate the exchange of delegations between the two countries moving forward.

Last month, Ambassador Nguyen Hoang Long also had working meetings with UK Minister for Investment Lord Gerry Grimstone and UK Minister of State for Defense Annabel Goldie.

Vietnam and the UK set up their diplomatic ties in 1973.

Two-way trade hit US$ 6.6 billion last year, up more than 17% year-on-year. The UK is an early investor in Vietnam, mainly in oil and gas, insurance, banking and education, with total capital amounting to over US$ 4 billion.

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