On August 6, Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Hyun held an inaugural and first phone conversation with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son, during which they discussed ways to strengthen the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, as well as regional and international affairs.
Minister Cho assessed that since the launch of the new administration, Korea and Vietnam have been engaging in active exchanges at various levels, which has contributed to the development of bilateral relations. President Lee Jaemyung held a phone call with Vietnamese President Luong Cuong on June 12, and last week dispatched a presidential special envoy to meet with local dignitaries. Minister Cho expressed appreciation to the Vietnamese side for their warm hospitality toward the special envoy delegation and stated, "Let us continue to actively promote high-level exchanges and communication, and work closely together both in the region and on the international stage."
Minister Son expressed his agreement with Minister Cho's remarks, saying, "Vietnam regards Korea as a reliable and key partner," and added, "Let us continue to actively develop the comprehensive strategic partnership between Korea and Vietnam in various fields, including high-level exchanges, economic cooperation, and science and technology." He also wished for the successful hosting of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit to be held in Gyeongju, North Gyeongsang Province, at the end of October this year, and proposed to meet Minister Cho in person in the near future to discuss ways to further develop bilateral relations.
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