Chairman of the HCM City People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan receives European Council President Herman Van Rompuy. Photo: VNA

(VNA) - Ho Chi Minh City hopes the European Union (EU) will continue providing ODA and non-refundable aid to implement public service, poverty reduction, education, and climate change projects. At a reception for visiting European Council President Herman Van Rompuy yesterday, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan said that these projects are very important for Vietnam. He expressed his belief that Van Rompuy’s visit will open a new chapter in the relationship between Vietnam and the EU. The two sides have signed a Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and launched the first round of negotiations for a free trade agreement. In addition, the European Investment Bank has agreed to provide financial packages worth 640 million EUR to Vietnam.