Hanoi (VNA) – The elevation of Vietnam- Republic of Korea (RoK) relations to a comprehensive strategicpartnership in late 2022 opened up a new period for more practical, effective and comprehensive development, Deputy Prime MinisterLe Minh Khai told his Korean counterpart Choo Kyung-ho during their phone talkson December 21.

Khai noted with pleasure the outstanding development ofthe bilateral cooperation in various spheres, saying the RoK has become one of Vietnam’stop economic partners.

For his part, Choo stressed that December 22 is of significanceas the two countries will celebrate the 31st anniversary of theirdiplomatic ties, and used this occasion to thanked Khai for his contributions to the enhancement of economic cooperation.

Reviewing the outcomes of the Vietnam-RoK economiccooperation dialogue at the deputy prime ministerial level in Hanoi in March,the officials expressed their hope to meet at the third dialogue next year to seek solutions to boost the bilateral economic ties.

They shared the view that the two sides need to stayunited to sail through obstacles amidst complex, unpredictable developmentsof the regional and world situation.

Khai suggested Choo continue his support andcontributions to the cooperation, saying the two countries should maintainregular delegation exchanges and all-level contacts, and strengthen collaborationin national defence and security, and economy in a more balanced and sustainable way for mutual benefits.

Khai also suggested Choo encourage Korean firms toexpand their investments in Vietnam, especially in such priority areas as infrastructure, production of high-tech electronic devices, semiconductors, big data, bio-technology,and smart urban areas, with attention paid to the transfer of technology andcapital.

The Deputy PM also called on the RoK to admit moreVietnamese labourers and expand cooperation between the two countries in thisfield, increase its non-refundable aid to the Southeast Asian nation,especially in research and development and innovation, and transfer core andsource technologies to Vietnam.

He proposed the two sides step up collaboration intelecoms, IT, e-government building, digital transformation, digital economy,green economy and circular economy.

Choo affirmed that he will instruct relevant agenciesto make thorough preparations for the third dialogue, thus contributing to thebilateral ties, and noted his hope to soon re-visit Vietnam./.