Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Viktorovich Lavrov pays an official visit to Vietnam today in part to discuss how the two countries will celebrate the 60th anniversary of their diplomatic relationship.

During the Russian guest’s visit, the two diplomats will hold talks on measures to strengthen strategic partnerships and bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and Russia.

The two ministers will review cooperation programs between the two ministries and discuss plans for the future.

They will also discuss how the two sides will prepare to celebrate the 60th anniversary of diplomatic ties between the two nations next year. The diplomats also plan to exchange views on regional and world issues of mutual concern.

During his stay, Lavrov is scheduled to meet with President Nguyen Minh Triet, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and leaders of the Vietnam-Russia Friendship Association.

He will also visit several of Vietnam’s economic centers.

Two-way trade between Vietnam and Russia reached US$1.64 billion in 2008 and $331 million in the first quarter of this year.

Russia wants to promote cooperation with Vietnam in areas such as energy, oil and gas, and the exploitation of mineral ores.

Reported by Hieu Dung - Huong Giang