Paris (VNA) – Portuguese President Anibal Cavaco Silva says Portugal and Vietnam should exert all efforts to bring the two countries’ relationship to a new level, especially to make bilateral economic and trade ties commensurate with their potential and position in Asia and Europe .

President A.C. Silva made the suggestion during a reception in Lisbon for incoming Vietnamese Ambassador to France and Portugal Le Kinh Tai.

The President said he was impressed by Vietnam ’s achievements, especially its high economic growth rate and socio-political stability.

“There are more and more Portuguese interested in Vietnam as an attractive tourist destination,” he said.

Ambassador Tai emphasised the strong potential for cooperation that both sides needed to tap to bring bilateral ties to new heights.

The Vietnamese diplomat also proposed that Portugal support Vietnam in trade and exports to the European Union market.