NDO/VNA – Vietnamese Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan paid an official visit to Greece at the invitation of Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou from October 31 – November 2.

On November 1, Xuan had a meeting with Sakellaropoulou, during which both sides agreed to enhance the exchange of delegations and visits at all levels, especially those at high level, towards expanding bilateral economic, trade, investment, cultural and tourism ties.

Sakellaropoulou announced a decision to present 250,000 AstraZeneca vaccine doses to Vietnam.

Greek President Katerina Sakellaropoulou symbolically presents 250,000 doses of AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine to Vietnam. (Photo: VNA)

Xuan thanked Greece for the decision, saying that it demonstrates the loyal friendship between the two nations and their people.

On regional and global issues, they affirmed support for the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, refraining from use or threat to use force, as well as highlighted the importance of maritime security, safety and freedom, and compliance with international law and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

On the occasion, Xuan conveyed President Nguyen Xuan Phuc’s letter to the Greek President to invite her to Vietnam next year.

Meeting Deputy Speaker of the Parliament of Greece Charalampos Athanasiou the same day, the Vietnamese official suggested the Greek parliament continue promoting the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and the Vietnam – EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) for common benefits of the two nations, as Vietnam – Greece economic and trade ties remain modest compared to political ties.

The host affirmed appreciation of ties with Vietnam and support for Vietnam – Greece and Vietnam – EU relationships.

He pledged to step up all-around ties with Vietnam, both bilaterally and at multilaterally, together with the Greek Government.

Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan visits the family of Kostas Nguyen Van Lap. (Photo: VNA)

Earlier on October 31, the Vice President visited the family of the late Greek hero of the Vietnam People’s Armed Forces Kostas Nguyen Van Lap as well as met staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Greece.