Vietnamese President Tran Duc Luong says his country will back Bangladesh's efforts to join the Regional Forum of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, or ASEAN.
President Luong made the comment today Monday during talks with Bangladesh Prime Minister Khaleda Zia in Dhaka, aimed at expanding bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
Mrs. Zia welcomed Mr. Luong's first ever visit to Bangladesh, saying it will help foster stronger bilateral ties.
The two countries also signed agreements on avoiding double taxation and agricultural cooperation, as well as a protocol on cultural exchanges.
The Vietnamese leader, who is accompanied by a 98-member delegation of senior government officials and businessmen, is also scheduled to hold talks with Bangladesh President Iajuddin Ahmed during his three-day visit.