Prime Minister of the Netherlands Mark Rutte (left) and his
Vietnamese counterpart Nguyen Xuan Phuc (Photo: VNA)
The Dutch Government leader told the press before leaving Vietnam
on April 9 night that people of the two countries are getting closer to each
other, and he and PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc have formed a close friendship that has
enabled them to discuss various issues, especially opportunities for both sides.
Noting that the Netherlands is a big investor in Vietnam, Rutte said 70 firms
that accompanied him during the visit will stay in Vietnam for the next three
days to sign many contracts on agriculture, water management, off-shore wind
energy and logistics.
He added that many other enterprises of the European country are also seeking
cooperation opportunities with Vietnamese partners.
The Dutch PM lauded Vietnam for its efforts in sustainable development despite
a range of challenges, citing the example of the Mekong Delta, where 20 million
people are suffering from direct impacts of natural and environmental
changes.
The local residents have learned how to adapt to these changes instead of
combating them, he added.
With most of its area below the sea level, the Netherlands can share its
experience in this regard with Vietnam, the PM said.
Talking about air pollution, which has remained a big problem to the
Netherlands, he said the country has planned to close coal-fired power plants
by 2030 and is implementing some projects on off-shore wind, solar and
geothermal energy. The Governments and firms of the Netherlands and Vietnam are
discussing cooperation in off-shore wind power, he said.
During the visit, the second to Vietnam by Rutte since 2014, the Dutch PM held
talks with PM Phuc, paid a courtesy visit to Party General Secretary and
President Nguyen Phu Trong and met with National Assembly Chairwoman Nguyen Thi
Kim Ngan.
He also attended a seminar between the 70 Dutch firms and representatives from
Vietnamese ministries and agencies.
Source: VNA
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