Chairwoman of the National Assembly Nguyen Thi Kim Ngan (R) and Speaker of the Thai House of Representatives Chuan Leekpai (Photo: VNA)

At the talks, the two top legislators exchanged ideas on cooperation between the two countries in economy, trade, and investment. Chairwoman Ngan suggested Thailand facilitate the trade of Vietnamese goods and services by striving to reach the bilateral trade mark of 20 billion USD  by 2020. Chuan Leekpai proposed the two countries soon review the bilateral labour cooperation agreement signed in 2015.

The two top legislators agreed to boost cooperation in culture, sports, tourism and interpersonal exchanges in consideration of geographical proximity and cultural similarities.

Chairwoman Ngan described defence and security as twin pillars cooperation for Vietnam and Thailand. She urged the two sides to soon sign agreements on extradition and mutual legal assistance regarding criminal, civil and trade matters. Moreover, she called for better coordination to address issues related to fishermen, fishing vessels, and violations at sea,  in accordance with the global standard and the bilateral strategic partnership. The NA leader called on the two countries to increase cooperation in the Greater Mekong Sub-region (GMS) in line with the common interest of Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam, and to coordinate to promote peace, security, stability, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation in the East Sea, as well as implement fully and effectively the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC) and soon adopt the Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

Mr. Chuan Leekpai said the close coordination between Vietnamese and Thai legislative bodies will contribute to fueling economic development along with the executive sector.

The same day, Ms. Ngan met with the Speaker of the Thai Upper House Pornpetch Wichitcholchai. She urged their respective legislatures to strengthen cooperation in accordance with the bilateral strategic partnership. She said she hoped the two countries can strengthen cooperation and mutual trust to speak with one voice on regional issues. She asks the Thai Parliament and AIPA members to support Vietnam’s stance in settling East Sea issues in line with international law and through peaceful means. Speaker Wichitcholchai said Thailand is ready to support Vietnam in the fulfillment its role. He noted that Thailand always supports Vietnam in issues of mutual concern including the maritime issue and others.