Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam expects strong growth of two-way trade with Hong Kong in thecoming time based on potential of bilateral relations, said Prime MinisterNguyen Xuan Phuc.

PM Phuc made thestatement while receiving Secretary for Commerce and EconomicDevelopment of Hong Kong Yau Tang-wah in Hanoi on March 22.

Lauding progressin political, economic, trade and investment ties, the PM suggested Hong Kongsupport Vietnam in developing bilateral trade and send experts to assist Vietnamsince Hong Kong is a financial centre in the region and the world.

He said Vietnamhas been focusing on developing transport, health and education infrastructure,and Hong Kong enterprises may take part in projects in these fields.

PM Phuc affirmedthat Vietnam is striving to improve its investment environment and to create optimalconditions for foreign investors, including those from Hong Kong, to successfullydo business in the country.

He said relevantagencies of Vietnam and Hong Kong need to put forth measures and action plans tofurther boost bilateral cooperative relations, adding that free tradeagreements are opening up more cooperation opportunities for both sides.

For his part,Yau said he was impressed at Vietnam’s economic growth as well as itsachievements in international integration and strong development ofVietnam-China relations.

He said his ongoingvisit to Vietnam is accompanied by a large number of Hong Kong firms who are seekinginvestment opportunities in the country, thus lifting bilateral trade ties to anew height.

Hong Kong wants to become a reliable partner of Vietnam, Yau said, adding thatHong Kong can provide Vietnam with professional services in the fields of finance,law, insurance and accounting.-VNA