President Robert Mugabe made the remarks at a meeting with Vietnamese Ambassador Le Huy Hoang who presented his credentials on July 31.

He added that Zimbabwe hopes ministries and economic sectors from both nations will discuss concrete measures to boost trade and implement tripartite cooperation programmes in health care and agriculture which Vietnam has effectively carried out in some African countries.

The president was also interested in Viet Nam’s active foreign policy, expressing support to the country’s stance on strengthening its international integration and settling all issues through peaceful measures in conformity with international law and the United Nation Charter.

Briefing his host on Vietnam ’s socio-economic development and external relations as well as the East Sea issue, Ambassador Hoang affirmed Viet Nam’s determination to foster the friendship and all-round cooperation with Zimbabwe .

The two sides also discussed measures to further bolster partnership between the two countries, especially in trade, economics, health care and agriculture.

Ambassador Hoang called on Zimbabwe to recognise Viet Nam’s market economy status, and support Vietnam ’s candidacy for the UNESCO Executive Board, the UN Economic and Social Council, and the UN Security Council.

Earlier, Ambassador Hoang also had a meeting with Zimbabwe ’s Foreign Minister Simbarashe Mumbengegwi, during which they talked of ways to strengthen diplomatic and politic ties between the two countries.

Mumbengegwi said he hopes the two sides will further their close coordination at regional and international forums, including the Non-Alignment Movement and the United Nations.

He pledged to work with other relevant agencies to consider Viet Nam’s proposals, so that Zimbabwe could soon announce the acknowledgement of Viet Nam’s market economy status. He also expressed support for Viet Nam’s running for seats in important international organisations in the coming time.

On the occasion, Ambassador Hoang had a meeting with local enterprises to introduce Viet Nam’s products, including rice and tra fish.