Terrorism figures in talks between President, Vietnamese counterpart

Hanoi, Nov 27 (UNI) President Pratibha Devisingh Patil today held one-on-one talks with Vietnamese President Nguyen Minh Triet on various issues, including terrorism, to further enhance bilateral relationship between the two countries.

The discussions, held in an atmosphere of traditional friendship and close understanding between the two nations, covered issues like cooperation in the vital fields of defence and law enforcement, terrorism, information and communications and nuclear technology, Ms Patil told mediapersons after the meeting.

Besides regional and international issues of mutual interest, the two leaders also discussed the lines of credit and cultural cooperation, including restoration of Cham temples.

The President said the talks also covered areas of expansion of bilateral trade and enhancing Indian investment in Vietnam.

Observing that the Joint Commission which had proved to be an effective mechanism in monitoring the activities of cooperation between the two countries, both the Presidents agreed to hold the 14th meeting of the Commission in Hanoi next year to provide it concrete direction for future cooperation.

Today was the third day of the four-day state visit of the President to Vietnam, to be followed by a five-day state visit to Indonesia, beginning tomorrow.

UNI KAS SKB RAI1140