PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc hosts British Ambassador Gareth Ward in Hanoi on October 26, 2018. (Source: dangcongsan.vn)

During a reception for Ambassador Gareth Ward in Hanoi on Friday, Prime Minister Phuc called for the UK’s financial assistance to aid Vietnam’s efforts to improve its business environment, respond to climate change, and upgrade infrastructure. He said he hopes that two-way trade will double during Ambassador Ward’s term of office. Vietnam-UK trade revenues hit 6 billion USD last year.

Ambassador Ward said British businesses are impressed by Vietnam’s improved business climate. He pledged to boost bilateral trade and cooperation in education, culture, healthcare and defense. Mr. Ward said the UK supports the rule of law, and security, safety, and freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea. 2018 marks 45 years of Vietnam-UK diplomatic ties.