E Asia key part of Iran’s foreign policy
Iran, Vietnam stress parliamentary diplomacy
Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has emphasized on paying special attention to East Asia as his country’s foreign policy priority, highlighting the efficacy of parliamentary diplomacy as a basis for enhancing ties with Vietnam in the regional and international arena.
During a Tuesday meeting with his Vietnamese counterpart Vuong Dinh Hue in Tehran, Qalibaf expressed satisfaction with hosting the Vietnamese delegation on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Iran and Vietnam, IRNA reported.
He noted that parliamentary diplomacy has played a crucial role in advancing these relations in recent years.Upon an invitation extended by his Iranian counterpart, Vietnam’s National Assembly chairman began his three-day visit to Iran on Tuesday.
Addressing a joint press conference, Qalibaf hailed the visit by Vietnamese delegates as a groundbreaking moment, marking the first-ever visit by the Vietnamese National Assembly chairman to Iran. He also highlighted the shared history of both nations in opposing oppression and tyranny.
In line with his vision of strengthening ties, the Iranian Parliament speaker suggested streamlining visa issuance procedures between Iran and Vietnam to facilitate easy travel, particularly for academic and trade-related purposes. The speaker also advocated for the establishment of direct air connectivity between Tehran and Hanoi, which could further catalyze the bilateral relationship.
In the press conference, the Vietnamese chairman reciprocated the sentiments, saying his country recognizes Iran’s important role in the region.
He also emphasized the increase in the volume of trade between Iran and Vietnam to two billion dollars, stating that with the signing of agreements and documents of cooperation between the two sides, the level of relations will be improved, ISNA reported.
Hue expressed hope that the visit could expand economic and trade cooperation. He also emphasized the potential for economic collaboration and investment between Iran and Vietnam.
Referring to the sister city agreement between Tehran and Hanoi, he emphasized the need to explore various strategies to enhance cooperation between Iran and Vietnam.