Although there is an existing cooperation agreement in place, it has not accurately reflected the current relations between Hanoi and Bangkok and requires an upgrade to a town-twinning relationship, according to Secretary of the Hanoi Party Committee Vuong Dinh Hue.

Secretary of Hanoi Party Committee Vuong Dinh Hue (r) and Thai Ambassador to Vietnam Tanee Sangrat (l). Photo: Thanh Hai.

Hanoi's Department of Foreign Affairs would be in charge of realizing this proposal, Hue said at a meeting with Thai Ambassador to Vietnam Tanee Sangrat on June 2.

Hue expected a soon resumption of flights between Vietnam – Thailand and Hanoi – Bangkok, provided that they ensure health safety, a move that Sangrat said Thailand is looking forward to.

So far Hanoi has succeeded in containing the Covid-19 pandemic, while the city’s economic growth in the first quarter remained positive at 3.72%, Hue added.

According to Hue, Hanoi is shifting its focus to economic recovery, including the organization of a large-scale investment promotion conference on June 27.

The event would be a demonstration for Hanoi’s determination in pushing for investment capital, Hue said, and extended an invitation to the Thai ambassador to attend the conference.

As of present, Thailand’s foreign direct investment (FDI) in Hanoi remains modest at nearly US$300 million. The city, therefore, plans to attract more investment capital from Thai enterprises, Hue stated.

Hanoi is committed to creating a favorable investment environment for Thai investors to do long-term businesses in the capital city, Hue stressed.

Ambassador Sangrat said as both countries aim to boost bilateral relations this year, there would be more discussions for greater cooperation in trade and investment.

Sangrat also proposed a joint conference between Vietnam and Thailand to promote economic cooperation.

“Thailand proposes to hold annual exchange programs and look forward to the participation of Hanoi, as well as cultural programs in Hanoi to celebrate the 45^th anniversary of establishment of bilateral diplomatic relations in 2021,” Sangrat added.

Regarding the request, Hue said Hanoi is willing to take part in those activities and support Thailand’s initiatives, along with similar events in Vietnam.