At a reception for Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn on 10/9 at the Party Central Committee headquarters, Party General Secretary To Lam congratulated Australia on its achievements in many fields, particularly science and technology, cultural diversity, and climate change response. He expressed confidence that Australia would increasingly assert its position and contribute positively to peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and the world.

Party General Secretary To Lam receives Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn on 10/9. Photo: Giang Huy

Party General Secretary To Lam receives Australian Governor-General Sam Mostyn on 10/9. Photo: Giang Huy

The Party General Secretary affirmed Vietnam's consistent policy of valuing the friendship and Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Australia, emphasizing Australia is a trusted partner.

He welcomed Australia's support and collaboration with Vietnam in implementing key policies to achieve its two centennial goals, expressing confidence that the bilateral relationship would grow stronger.

Governor-General Mostyn said Vietnam is one of Australia's most trusted partners, expressing hope for continued close collaboration across all fields toward a peaceful, stable, and prosperous region.

The two leaders assessed the strong foundation of people-to-people connections between the two countries, with the growing Vietnamese community in Australia making positive contributions to Australia's overall development and the bilateral relationship. The smaller Australian community in Vietnam is an important factor promoting economic connections and scientific and educational cooperation.

Regarding educational cooperation, the Party General Secretary suggested expanding cooperation in human resource and workforce development, especially for skilled workers, experts, and scientists. The two countries should implement existing science and technology cooperation programs and expand talent exchanges, facilitating interaction and collaboration between young scientists and entrepreneurs in pioneering fields.

The General Secretary assessed this as a field with much potential, especially given Australia's strengths in scientific research and Vietnam's focus on innovating its growth model based on science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

On climate change, the two leaders agreed this is a shared challenge for both nations and the world. The Party General Secretary appreciated Australia's support for Vietnam in this area and suggested strengthening cooperation towards green and sustainable development.

Governor-General Mostyn is on a state visit to Vietnam from 9-12/9. Australia and Vietnam established diplomatic relations in 1973 and became Comprehensive Strategic Partners in 3/2024.

Bilateral trade in 2024 reached 14.1 billion USD, a 2.3% increase compared to 2023. Australia is currently Vietnam's 7th largest trading partner, and Vietnam is Australia's 10th largest.

Vu Hoang (Vietnam News Agency)