The relations between Vietnam and New Zealand have continuously thrived over the past time based on the bilateral comprehensive partnership, Vinh said, adding that the two countries are looking toward to the strategic partnership.

He suggested the two sides develop cooperation in defence in a more pragmatic manner, focusing on education-training and defence industry.

Relevant agencies and units of Vietnam’s Ministry of National Defence are willing to exchange with the New Zealand counterparts to seek measures to expand the bilateral collaboration in the field, he said.

For her part, Matthews described defence cooperation as an important pillar in the relations between Vietnam and New Zealand. 

She pledged to do her utmost to further deepen the two countries’ defence partnership.