At the meeting, both sides expressed delight at the growing partnership between the two nations across politics-diplomacy, and economics and trade with two-way trade jumping by 15% to US$391 billion last year.

They agreed that the bilateral cooperation is far from matching their full potential for which, they should intensify exchange delegations at all levels and step up cooperation in sea-based economy, shipping, renewable energy and tourism, among others.

Hue said Vietnam always values ties with Portugal, adding that several Vietnam's leading corporations' trip to Portugal together with him is seen as  an effort to push up economic and trade ties with the European nation.

He urged Portugal, as a EU member, to perform a more active role in bridging ASEAN and the EU and to support the early signing of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

In reply, Rodrigues appreciated Vietnam’s role in the international arena and showed  his support for multilateral trade and the signing of EVFTA.

Hue later had a meeting with Portuguese Minister of Labour, Solidarity and Social Security José António Vieira Da Silva during which the two sides agreed that social welfare plays an essential role in ensuring stable socio-economic development. 

The Portuguese ministry pledged their support for Vietnam’s Ministry of Labour, War Invalid and Social Affairs, Ministry of Home Affairs and Vietnam Social Security in reforming social security and wage policies.