JOURNALIST: What is the purpose of your visit to Vietnam? How would you describe the relations between Greece and Vietnam in the previous years? T. QUICK: It is the second time in less than two years that a Greek Government representative visits Vietnam. In February 2017, the first official visit of Greek Minister of Foreign Affairs, Nikos Kotzias, which was reciprocated by his Vietnamese counterpart, Pham Binh Minh, last July, signalled our expressed willingness to further develop our close and friendly relations. The signing by the two Foreign Ministers of the "visa-waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic passports" between Greece and Vietnam, due to enter into effect as soon as Vietnam completes its internal procedures, marks the strengthening of our ties. Indeed, my visit is a confirmation of our unquestionable support for further developing and strengthening the cooperation between Greece and Vietnam in a number of sectors, namely trade, tourism, shipping, technology, energy, and construction. The list is endless, as are the possibilities of partnership and cooperation. JOURNALIST: How would you describe the dynamics of bilateral cooperation between Greece and Vietnam, particularly in trade and economic growth? T. QUICK: With a population over 95 million and a fast growing economy, Vietnam represents an emerging power in South-East Asia, which in tandem with the technical know-how and the dynamism of Greek companies, provides numerous opportunities for synergy and mutual development across a wide range of activities. We have no doubt that with an incoming number of tourists three times the size of the Greek population, and a tourist industry which breaks every possible record, Greek businesses are well equipped in terms of expertise, experience and human resources to help develop the tourism sector in Vietnam. The rich culture, hospitality and the beautiful natural environment that our countries have in common guarantee the success of our joint endeavours. Synergies in transport and supply, shipping and energy can build on the basis of Greek know-how in the maritime and energy sectors as well as in infrastructure and the development of actions which will combine highly skilled Greek workforce and high technology with Vietnamese business competence and trade opportunities. Especially when it comes to the construction sector, Greek companies are active on the international stage, while a variety of products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, famous food products and raw materials form the basis for market development and ensure mutual economic growth. There are countless opportunities. It is up to us to seize them. We have professionalism, diligence and competitiveness, and Greek businesses know that in Vietnam they will have the opportunity to work with reliable and honest partners. JOURNALIST: The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) is expected to be ratified by the end of 2018. In your opinion, how will the Agreement affect trade between the two countries in the coming period? T. QUICK: After the legislative work is completed this summer, I hope that the European Parliament will quickly approve the Agreement, in order to allow businesses, workers, farmers and consumers to reap the benefits as soon as possible. The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement is the most ambitious and comprehensive agreement which the EU has ever agreed with a developing country. It shows Vietnam's dynamic approach to the pursuit of international integration for the benefit of its citizens. The Agreement will give rise to new opportunities for European and Vietnamese bodies to export and invest. It will bring about unprecedented advantages and benefits to European and Vietnamese businesses, workers and consumers. Vietnam presents a huge business potential for European exporters and investors, now and in the future. It represents one of the fastest growing economies in Southeast Asia, with a dynamic market of more than 95 million consumers, an emerging middle class and a young workforce. Greece favours all agreements that facilitate development and progress, especially those that promote trade relations between States as a means of preserving and accelerating economic development. For this reason, Greece is a staunch supporter of timely completion and full implementation of trade and investment agreements. As a member state of the European Union situated at the crossroads of the Mediterranean, the Balkans, Western Europe and Asia, Greece possesses the geographic location, the infrastructure (ports, airports, motorways) and the human capital in order to be a commercial hub for the support and the development of trade and investment flows to and from Europe. https://en.vietnamplus.vn/vietnam-has-massive-potential-for-eu-businesses-greek-diplomat/143277.vnp
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