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| The visit, which was made at the invitation of President Nguyen Xuan Phuc on the occasion of the 40th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic relations (June 24, 1982-2022), has a historical meaning in Viet Nam-Sierra Leone ties as it will be the first by a head of State of one country to the other. |
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| Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio's official visit to Viet Nam from March 14-20 is expected to be a new step forwards in the development of ties between Viet Nam and the West African country. |
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| Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio and his Spouse were welcomed to Viet Nam at an official ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Ha Noi on March 15 afternoon chaired by State President Nguyen Xuan Phuc. |
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| The visit takes place in the context of African countries, including Sierra Leone, expanding their relations with Asia-Pacific countries, including Viet Nam. |
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| Since Viet Nam and Sierra Leone set up their diplomatic relations on June 24, 1982, the two sides have maintained good political relations. Viet Nam attaches importance to fostering ties with African countries, including Sierra Leone. Meanwhile, Sierra Leone supported Viet Nam's candidacy for the UNESCO Executive Council (2015-2019), the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC in 2016-2018 tenure), and the United Nations Security Council (2020-2021). |
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| The two countries have engaged in economic cooperation and worked together in some other fields. In 2020, two-way trade reached 49.26 million USD, up more than 200 percent from the 17 million USD recorded in 2018, with Viet Nam’s overwhelming exports of 47 million USD. Sierra Leone is operating one project in marketing and human resources management in Viet Nam with investment of 33,185 USD. Viet Nam has yet to run any project in Sierra Leone. |
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| Following the welcome ceremony, President Nguyen Xuan Phuc and Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio co-chaired the bilateral talks.... |
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| ...and witnessed the signing ceremony of cooperation agreements between the two countries. |
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| On March 15 morning, President Julius Maada Bio laid wreaths at President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and at the Monument of War Heroes and Martyrs. |
| Within the framework of the visit, Sierra Leone President is scheduled to have meetings with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue; visit the Temple of Literature, FPT University; attend the Business Forum and have other activities in Can Tho and Ho Chi Minh City. |
By Nguyen Kim - Nguyen Hong
