They agreed to further boost trade, properly handle border issues and enhance security cooperation.

Hu and Nong agreed to inherit and carry forward and enhance their traditional friendship, develop mutual understanding, expand mutual beneficial cooperation, promote common development and lift bilateral all-round cooperation to new heights.

During their talks in the Great Hall of the People, Hu, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, put forward a five-point proposal to boost Sino-Vietnamese relations.

He suggested Chinese and Vietnamese party and state leaders maintain frequent visits, exchange views on important issues of common concern, exchange experiences of party ruling and state governance, and the theory and practice of socialism in a bid to consolidate the political base of relations.

He asked the two countries to deepen trade and economic cooperation in a reciprocal, mutual beneficial and win-win spirit.

He urged the two countries to strengthen long-term cooperation in such fields as energy, resource and communication, promote regional cooperation and expand two-way trade.

China will support companies looking to invest in Vietnam and will provide credit support for high-yield projects in terms of economic and social benefit.

Hu also appealed the two countries to enhance exchange and cooperation in culture, education, science and technology, public and regional security, boost youth and cultural exchange, and increase understanding and friendship between the two peoples. 
On border and territory issues, Hu asked that the two sides properly handle these applying a broad point of view and through friendly consultation.

He also urged that inspection of the Sino-Vietnamese land border be speeded up to meet scheduled completion by 2008, that talks on maritime borders and joint development in the South China Sea be continued maintaining the momentum of cooperation between China, Vietnam and the Philippines in this respect.

Hu also made an appeal for China and Vietnam to enhance coordination and cooperation on international and regional issues, promote world peace and development.

In addition, Hu hailed their traditional friendship.

Further, Hu expressed his appreciation of Vietnam's adherence to the one-China policy, opposition to "Taiwan Independence" and support of China's peaceful reunification strive.

To further Sino-Vietnamese relations conforms with their common aspiration and fundamental interests of the two peoples, and will benefit the two countries' development and prosperity, Hu noted.

Hu added that the Chinese party, government and people support the reform of Vietnam under the leadership of the communist party and in the socialism direction, and Vietnam's efforts towards economic progress, social stability and improvement of the international environment.

Nong, general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee (CPVCC), echoed Hu's points.

This is Nong's first overseas visit since his reelection as general secretary in April.

Nong said such a visit indicated that the Vietnamese party, government and people attach importance to and will strive to deepen bilateral relations, mutual trust and all-round cooperation.

Vietnam appreciates China's support and selfless assistance in its national liberation and reunification efforts, and socialism building drive, he said.

Nong hailed the improved cooperation with China after President Hu's visit to Vietnam last year.

He spoke highly of China's contribution to international and regional affairs, saying the Vietnam-China cooperation will benefit the world and regional peace, stability and development.

Vietnam will adhere to the one-China policy, oppose to "Taiwan Independence" in any form, and wishes for an early realization of China's reunification, Nong said.

He also expressed his gratitude for China's assistance extended to Vietnamese fishing boats and fishermen that were troubled by Typhoon Chanchu in May. He also sent his condolences to Chinese who are now battling with floods in South China.

He also hailed the leadership of the CPC and its successes, which serves as encouragement to the Vietnamese party and government.

The two leaders also exchanged views in depth on international and regional issues. They officiated a signing ceremony for several inter-governmental agreements after their talks.

Nong arrived in Beijing on Tuesday, marking the start of his five-day official goodwill visit.

China has been Vietnam's biggest trade partner since 2004, with trade exceeding US$8 billion in 2005.

The two sides expect to meet their annual trade target of US$10 billion this year, originally set to be reached by 2010.

(Xinhua News Agency August 23, 2006)