Legislative leader meets overseas Vietnamese in Russia

Moscow (VNA) - National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Phu Trong met with
representatives of the Vietnamese community and the embassy staff in Russia on April 22, the first day of his official visit to the country.

The Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia , Bui Dinh Dinh, reported relations between
Vietnam and Russia have developed positively in recent years. In particular,
last year the two nations exchanged more than 150 delegations at all levels.

Despite the good political ties, Vietnam-Russia economic cooperation has been
incommensurate with potentials and desires of both sides, Dinh said, adding that
two-way trade value reached 1.6 billion USD for the first time in 2008.

The diplomat noted with pleasure that Vietnam and Russia have enjoyed a
fruitful relationship in cultural exchanges, and scientific and technological
cooperation. Overseas Vietnamese in Russia have demonstrated a sense of unity
and mutual support, and always wish to contribute to the homeland.

Chairman Trong emphasised the need to beef up friendly and cooperative relations
between Vietnam and Russia , especially in the economy, trade, investment and
legislative cooperation, to serve national construction and development in each
country.

The top legislator briefed the participants about the implementation of the Party
polices and government's measures to prevent economic slowdown, ensure social
security and maintain the country's economic growth.

He called on the Vietnamese community in Russia to preserve and uphold Vietnam
's valuable traditions and take actions to help the homeland while observing law
and contributing to development of the host country.

The lawmaker also cleared up questions raised by the representatives regarding
Vietnam 's laws on the overseas Vietnamese communities, and incentives designed
for Vietnamese nationals to invest and buy houses in the home country.-Enditem