President Calmy-Rey made the remark in an interview granted to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Switzerland, as the two countries are celebrating the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties this month (October 11). 

The President stressed that Switzerland and Vietnam have enjoyed fine relations over the past 40 years, especially in economics.

Bilateral trade balance is now profitable for Vietnam and this is an important development momentum for the country, she said. 

President Calmy-Rey went on to say that Switzerland always wants to go abreast with Vietnam in economic development. Therefore, Switzerland has changed its policy towards Vietnam, with a focus placed on economic cooperation and partnership with the Southeast Asian nation. 

The President also expressed her delight at human rights dialogues between Switzerland and Vietnam, saying that these dialogues brought benefits to both countries. 

In addition, the two countries have agreed to step up cooperation in training and research between their universities, she added.