The Australian legislator is on a visit to Vietnam from Jan. 5-11 at the invitation of Chairman Trong.

The Vietnamese legislative body would do its utmost to develop Vietnamese-Australian ties for the benefit and development of each country, and for peace and prosperity in the region and the world at large, Chairman Trong said during their talks following the ceremony.

The top Australian legislator suggested that the two legislative bodies seek cooperation measures to ensure the effective implementation of previously-reached agreements.

Increasing levels of cooperation between the two countries also contributes to peace, cooperation and development in the Asia-Pacific region, he said, adding that Vietnam and Australia should work more closely at regional and international parliamentary forums.

Sharing this view, NA Chairman Trong said the implementation of previous agreements would lift the two countries’ relations to new heights.

Vietnam recognises the importance of its ties with Australia and wishes to increase its friendly relationship and multifaceted cooperation with Australia across bilateral and multilateral fields, he said.

He also suggested that Australia , with its strength in capital, technology and management experience, continue to provide support to Vietnam throughout its industrialisation and modernisation processes.

Vietnam is currently trying to fulfill its Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). However, the country is in need of support from other countries, including Australia, to ensure better implementation of the MDGs as it suffers from a lack of human resources, Trong said.

Jenkins confirmed that Australia is willing to support and help Vietnam to develop infrastructure and human resources training, as well as to deal with the effects of climate change.

NA Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong laid on a banquet in honour of his guest later that evening.

On Jan. 5, Speaker Jenkins worked alongside the Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Council, Pham Phuong Thao.

The two sides shared their common interest in the possibility of working together in specific areas such as urban management, infrastructure and transportation development.

Projects such as the My Thuan and Phu My bridges are vivid demonstrations of the fine relationship enjoyed by the two countries, Jenkins said.

The Australian legislator spoke highly of the role of the Vietnamese community in his country as well as their contributions to developing the ties between the two nations.