Vietnam-Russian strategic partnership growing steadily (VOV) - The Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership has seen positive developments, delivering practical benefits to both nations. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh and Russian Foreign Sergei Lavrov have agreed upon the flourishing partnership during their talks in Hanoi on April 16 as part of the Russian FM’s official visit to Vietnam from April 15-16. On politics-diplomacy, the two sides have maintained mechanisms for regular mutual consultation and exchange visits. Last year’s two-way trade hit nearly US$4 billion while remarkable progress has been seen in energy cooperation, national defense and security, culture, education and tourism.   Deputy PM and FM Pham Binh Minh (R) and Russian Foreign Sergei Lavrov. (Photo: VGP) However, the trade value still remains modest compared to the two countries’ potential as it only accounts for approximately 1% of Vietnam’s trade value and 0.5% of Russia’s. During the talks, the two FMs discussed measures to expand bilateral cooperation in economy, trade, culture, education, science and technology as well as promote coordination in the international arena. They also dilated the implementation of key projects, including the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Plant No. 1 and construction of a Center for Nuclear Science and Technology in Vietnam, and how to create favorable conditions for Vietnamese people to work effectively and legally in Russia. Concerning regional and international situation, Deputy PM Minh voiced his belief that Russia will continue to enhance its role in increasing cooperation in Asia-Pacific, especially at multi-lateral forums coordinated by ASEAN like the East- Asia Summit and the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF). FM Minh called for practical, transparent and responsible engagement of big countries in the region including Russia which will bring benefits to peace, stability and development. In 2015, Vietnam and Russia will celebrate the 65th anniversary of diplomatic ties which have been built on mutual trust and cooperation. For his part, Russian FM Lavro commended both nations’ joint efforts to expand the bilateral ties and believed that the two-way trade will continue to grow after the free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the Customs Union of Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan is signed. Lavrow said the two countries shared the same views on many international issues, including their support for the United Nations’ crucial role in expanding the collective principle in international relations. He also said Russia backs Vietnam’s active role in ASEAN and the regional grouping’s central role in the regional architecture. VOV