President Sang welcomes Norwegian Crown Prince
(VOV) - State President Truong Tan Sang appreciated Norway’s valuable assistance for Vietnam over the years at a March 20 reception in Hanoi for visiting Crown Prince Haakon Magnus and Princess Mette Marit.
He acknowledged the Crown Prince’s proposals concerning key cooperation areas between Vietnam and Norway, particularly economic development and human rights promotion.
Valuing Norway’s strengths in the maritime industry, seafood processing and climate change adaptation, President Sang expressed his hope Norwegian businesses accompanying the Crown Prince this time will seize investment opportunities and sign contracts with their Vietnamese counterparts.
He noted Vietnam pays special attention to promoting the people’s fundamental human rights during the course of national construction and defence.
Vietnamese people’s living conditions have improved significantly compared to the previous decade, Sang said, adding Vietnam has implemented numerous policies to cement the close bond between the State and people so as to heighten people’s democracy.
The President assured his guest that with the growing political trust in bilateral ties Vietnam will help Norway strengthen relations with ASEAN.
He also proposed Norway support Vietnam’s candidacy for United Nations organisations memberships in the coming years.
Crown Prince Haakon said he was impressed by Vietnam’s development achievements, especially poverty reduction.
He told Sang Norwegian businesses show interest in the Vietnamese market, and his visit is expected to open up opportunities for stronger bilateral cooperation in the maritime industry, seafood processing, and hydro-power generation.
Norway believes Vietnam, a UN Human Rights Council member, will have the chance to guarantee human rights in its own country and others, the Crown Prince said.