Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has suggested that Vietnam and Brazil focus on promoting key areas of cooperation agreed to by himself and President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva as among the major orientations to elevate bilateral ties to new heights.

Areas of cooperation include politics, diplomacy, economy, trade, investment, agriculture, culture, sports, tourism, science and technology, education and training, innovation, and labor, the Prime Minister said while addressing a forum at the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs on September 25 (local time) as part of his official visit to the Southern American country.

The two sides also agreed to boost cooperation on emerging sectors such as AI, semiconductors, big data, digital transformation, the circular economy, green growth, e-commerce, and climate change response.

Another orientation is to enhance relations between leaders of the two countries through high-level visits and meetings at regional and international forums, and to promote the role of diplomatic channels of the State, parliament, and political parties, he said.

Vietnam hopes that Brazil will accelerate the early start of negotiations for a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the Southern Common Market (MERCOSUR). Vietnam and Brazil will be a bridge for each other to bolster cooperation with MECOSUR and ASEAN and between ASEAN and MECOSUR, as well as other regional organizations, he said.

The government leader suggested the two sides foster cooperation in tourism, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people exchanges.

Vietnam hopes that Brazil will continue sharing its experience and promoting development values at global forums, Prime Minister Chinh said.