Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Deputy President of South Africa Paul Mashatile. Photo:VNA

At the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized the big potential for cooperation between the two countries and suggested that the two sides increase contact and exchange of high-level delegations at all levels; improve the effectiveness of economic, trade and investment cooperation; and study and upgrade cooperation mechanisms.

The two sides need to soon negotiate the Vietnam-South Africa Free Trade Agreement, open markets for each other's strong products such as agricultural products, electronics, textiles and garments; promote cooperation in digital transformation, green transformation, renewable energy, minerals, and pharmaceuticals, PM Chinh said. He called on South Africa to act as a bridge for cooperation between Vietnam and ASEAN with the African Union.

The Vice President applauded Vietnam's socio-economic development achievements and rising position globally, affirming that this visit to Vietnam is an important milestone to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, especially finding new, more practical and effective cooperation frameworks.

The two leaders agreed to promote the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) and share and exchange experiences in mobilizing financial resources for this process.