ASEAN, African countries beef up ties

The trade ties between ASEAN and African countries in the IOF have progressed over the past years, of which that between Viet Nam and the Africa valued US$ 4.29 billion in 2013, representing a year-on-year increase of 22%. However, the figures are still modest in comparison with respective potentials and aspiration, requiring more efforts from the banking and business circles.

Addressing the event, Deputy PM Vu Van Ninh affirmed that Viet Nam hopes and promises to spare no effort to spur the cooperative ties between ASEAN and African countries in the IOF.

As a positive member of the IOF, Viet Nam always commits to following the orientation on building an economic strategy of the IOF and has strengthened ties with every member state, said Mr. Ninh.

He underlined that the Vietnamese Government would create favorable ways for further cooperation with African countries in general and IOF member states in particular, open the door for business communities from the two blocs and encourage coordination among banks.

The host leader hoped that the forum would open up a new chapter for better commercial and investment ties among banks and businesses from the two blocs.

The two-day event was hosted by the Viet Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) with support of the IOF and the International Trade Center (ITC)./.

By Kim Anh