Paris (VNA) – General Secretary of the CommunistParty of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee Nguyen Phu Trong met with National Secretary of theFrench Communist Party (PCF) Pierre Laurent in Paris on March 27 afternoon (local time),part of the former’s official visit to France.

The Vietnamese leader said although the twocountries’ diplomatic relationship was officially set up in 1973, relationsbetween their peoples and communists had existed long before that. LatePresident Ho Chi Minh and many leaders of Vietnam took part in the communistand progressive movement of France and connected it with the revolutionarymovement in Vietnam. Many French people stood on the side of Vietnamese peopleto create a widespread anti-war movement calling for the internationalcommunity’s support for the righteous struggle of the Vietnamese people.

He noted the solidarity and mutual assistance inthe past is a spring-board for bilateral ties to continue flourishing in thefuture.

Briefing about Vietnam’s situation and theoutcomes of his talks and meetings with French leaders, General Secretary Trongsaid Vietnam-France relations have developed in an increasingly effectivemanner.

He asked the PCF, with its role and prestige, tocontinue supporting the French administration to keep enhancing ties withVietnam. The two parties should also hold regular theory exchanges and supporteach other at regional and international forums.

[Bright prospects for Vietnam-France relations]

PCF National Secretary Pierre Laurentcongratulated Vietnam on its reform and development achievements, especially ineconomic growth and poverty reduction. Highlighting the countries’ thrivingconnections, he expressed his belief that the CPV leader’s visit will give animportant boost to bilateral ties.

The French communists will actively help tobuild positive policies towards Vietnam, he said, adding that the increase oftheoretical workshops will help intensify the two parties’ cooperation intheoretical issues. 

In late 2018, the PCF will organise a congressmarking its centenary. Laurent suggested appropriate activities be held on thisoccasion to honour President Ho Chi Minh, who greatly contributed to the twoCommunist Parties and the two nations.

General Secretary Trong welcomed his guest’sidea and wished the PCF to successfully organise its congress later thisyear.-VNA