Hanoi (VNA) – Deputy Prime Minister Le Minh Khai on June 27 received visiting Group Chairman José Viñals of the UK-based Standard Chartered PLC.

Telling his guest that Vietnam values and wants to step up the strategic partnership with the UK, Khai said the Vietnamese Government hopes UK banks, including the Standard Chartered, will continue to make significant contributions to the sound bilateral friendship and cooperation via their presence in Vietnam.

The leader acknowledged the support and contributions of the group and Standard Chartered Bank Vietnam to the development of the country’s economy and its banking and financial sector. Since 2012, Standard Chartered has proactively played its role as the sole advisor to the Vietnamese Government on national credit rating upgrades.

Khai said Standard Chartered's assistance has helped Vietnam improve its communications and ratings amidst a challenging international environment and expressed his belief that the partner will continue its crucial role and accompany Vietnam on its development path.

The Deputy PM went on underscoring the Government's strong confidence in Standard Chartered's commitment to the local market. Vietnam will continue to support and create favourable conditions for the bank to operate effectively, successfully implement cooperative projects, and accompany Vietnam in its development process.

Mentioning Standard Chartered's support for Vietnam to realise the goal of Net Zero, Khai said international resources are necessary for Vietnam to deliver on its climate change commitments. He urged Standard Chartered to continue giving advice and assistance to Vietnam in carrying out its action plans and projects in green growth and sustainable development.

Regarding the building of an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City, the Deputy PM hoped Standard Chartered would continue to share its experience and measures for developing a comprehensive financial ecosystem suited to Vietnam's economy and international practices.

In response, Viñals reaffirmed the commitment to cooperate with the Vietnamese Government and relevant stakeholders to realise the goal of prosperous development. He expressed his hope for opportunities to help Vietnam overcome challenges through attracting more foreign investors to the country.

He also confirmed that Standard Chartered will support the country in improving its national credit rating, ensuring foreign investors’ confidꦕence, and promoting sustainable and green economic development./.