He praised the constant development of the Vietnam-Australia comprehensive cooperation as a firm foundation for both sides to move toward strategic partnership in the near future.
Both sides should promote the regular exchange of high-level delegations between the two armies, Thanh said.
Defence Minister Thanh also asked Australia to back Vietnam’s bid for the International Hydrographic Organisation (IHO) membership.
In reply, his host pledged closer cooperation with the Vietnamese army, especially in the field of training and strong support for Vietnam’s stance that disputes must be resolved by peaceful means in line with international law.
Stephen Smith said Australia welcomes Vietnam’s initiative to set up a group of experts under the framework of ASEAN Defence Ministerial Meeting Plus (ADMM+), to deal with post war consequences of bombs and mines and UXO.
Also on March 19, Thanh paid a courtesy visit to Australian Governor General Quentin Bryce and called at the Defence Force Academy and the Fleet Command.
On March 20, the delegation left Canberra for an official visit to New Zealand.
