Hanoi (VNA) - Vietnam attaches great importance to strengthening ties with the Commonwealth of Dominica, and wants to further develop bilateral relations based on the two countries’ respective strengths, particularly in trade, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges, said Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son.

Son made the statement during his talks with Vince Henderson, Minister for Foreign Affairs, International Business, Trade and Energy of the Commonwealth of Dominica in Hanoi on May 28.

At the talks, the two sides exchanged views on the current state of bilateral relations, measures to further enhance cooperation, and regional and international issues of shared interest.

The host official welcomed Henderson's second visit to Vietnam in just over two years, and highlighted its significance.

He proposed that the two sides increase visits at all levels and contacts among ministries, sectors and business communities of the two countries, while encouraging closer coordination and mutual support at the United Nations and other multilateral forums.

Son affirmed Vietnam’s readiness to serve as a gateway for Dominica to enhance relations with ASEAN member states.

He welcomed Dominica’s proposal to open a resident embassy and appoint its first ambassador to Vietnam, noting that the Vietnamese Government had officially approved the move.

For his part, Henderson congratulated Vietnam on the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and National Reunification, and voiced admiration for the country’s remarkable socio-economic achievements and diplomatic progress. He expressed confidence that Vietnam will achieve its ambitious development goals.

He reiterated Dominica’s high regard for relations with Vietnam, as reflected in its decision to soon establish an embassy in Hanoi. He pledged that Dominica will act as a bridge to strengthen Vietnam’s engagement with Latin America and the Caribbean.

Endorsing Vietnam’s proposals, he emphasised the importance of expanding cooperation in infrastructure, tourism and science and technology. He also encouraged Vietnamese enterprises to invest in Dominica, expressing hope to advance bilateral relations to a more substantive level.

At the talks, the two sides agreed on the need to settle international disputes through peaceful measures in accordance with international law. They also committed to boosting cooperation between Vietnam and the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), as well as between the Commonwealth of Dominica and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The same day, Henderson held a working session with Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Ho An Phong to discuss ways to enhance cultural and tourism ties between the two countries.

During his visit, spanning from May 27-29, the minister is scheduled to meet with leaders of several Vietnamese ministries and sectors./.