(VOVworld) - Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh has said Vietnam treasures the development of ties with Germany which plays a key role in Europe and the world.

Deputy PM and FM Pham Binh Minh and Volker Kauder, parliamentary group leader of the ruling Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union of the German Parliament (Photo: VOV)

Mr. Minh made the statement at a reception in Hanoi on Monday for Volker Kauder, parliamentary group leader of the ruling Christian Democratic Union and Christian Social Union (CDU/CSU) of the German Parliament.

Kauder, in response, said the German parliament continually backs the promotion of mutual beneficial ties between the two countries.

Both leaders welcomed the upcoming signing of a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Union, adding that it will definitely open up new cooperation prospects for the two business communities and regions. They agreed to direct agencies and businesses to use their influence to strengthen the Vietnam – Germany strategic partnership.

They also discussed regional and global issues of mutual concern, including the East Sea.