Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc made the remarks while hosting the outgoing Brazilian Ambassador to Vietnam Antonio Diniz Brandao in Hanoi on November 12, during which he hailed the diplomat’s contributions to boosting the two countries’ relations, with the organization of high-level visits and bilateral trade exceeding US$4 billion.

PM Phuc called on businesses to increase exchange visits with the aim of expanding collaboration opportunities towards doubling bilateral trade on the back of huge potential for broader cooperation.

The cabinet leader also urged both sides to work closely in holding celebrations to mark the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations next year.

For his part, the outgoing Brazilian Ambassador expressed his confidence that bilateral ties will grow and thrive in the time to come, while affirming that Vietnam has always and will continue to be an important partner of his nation.

Both nations have a lot of potential areas for further development such as aviation, and Brazil plans to export aircraft to Vietnam, he said.

He also voiced his hope that Vietnam will sign a free trade agreement with the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR), and that Brazil will be able to sign a similar agreement with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN.

Antonio Diniz Brandao pledged his best efforts to contribute to developing ties between the two nations no matter her future position.