Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (R) receives Malaysian ambassador to Vietnam Dato’ Shariffah Mustaffa in Hanoi on February 03, 2020. (VOV)

Receiving Malaysian diplomat Dato’ Shariffah Mustaffa, PM Phuc proposed the early signing of an action plan to realize a bilateral strategic partnership for the 2020-2025 period and asked Malaysia to reduce trade barriers on Vietnamese goods, especially farm produce and Halal food for Muslims. He also asked for increased two-way trade. Mustaffa pledged to hold a sixth meeting of the Vietnam–Malaysia joint committee this year.

During a reception for Armenian Ambassador Vahram Kazhoyan, PM Phuc urged both sides to use the free trade agreement between Vietnam and the Eurasian Economic Union to increase bilateral trade and investment. Mr. Phuc proposed holding a second meeting of the Vietnam-Armenia Inter-Government Committee soon. As ASEAN Chair 2020, Vietnam is ready to serve as a bridge between ASEAN and Armenia, he said.