Trong noted the visit was taking place at a time when cooperative ties between the two countries were successfully developing.

The Vietnamese people treasure the warm sentiments shown towards Vietnam by the former Soviet Union and the present Russian Federation, and are grateful for it, Trong said.

“The traditional friendship between Vietnam and Russia has withstood the test of time and periods of history, and has grown in depth,” he stressed.

Melnikov said his visit aimed to strengthen the sentiments between the two nations as well as their ties of friendship and cooperation.

Melnikov informed his host of the outcome of earlier talks held with NA Vice Chairman Uong Chu Luu, adding that a newly-signed accord between the two legislatures would mark a new stage in their cooperation.

The Russian official said he hoped that the State Duma and the parliament of Vietnam would continue to coordinate closely at international forums on national and international affairs of mutual interest.

Source: VNA