Mr Dung said that since the two countries signed an economic cooperation agreement in 2005, Singapore has become one of Vietnam’s top trading partners, with two-way trade last year reaching US$12 billion, up 22 percent against 2007. Singapore’s investment in Vietnam also hit more than US$16 billion.

He expressed hope that the new ambassador would help promote bilateral cooperation, especially in investment, trade, health care and education.

Ambassador Kuen spoke highly of Vietnam’s impressive achievements in national construction and development and noted that Singaporean-invested projects and industrial parks have operated efficiently in Vietnam.

He pledged to do his utmost to strengthen the friendship and cooperation in many areas between the two countries.

VietNamNet/VOV