The Vietnamese official delivered a speech at the ongoing eighth Delhi Dialogue in New Delhi, India on Thursday to help enhance co-operation between India and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean).

He recommended four key areas for the two sides to work together on further integration of Aseancountries and India in regional value chains and production networks.

Asean and India should adopt specific measures that facilitate bilateral trade, investment and identify areas of comparative advantages, he said.

In her opening remarks at the session, Indian Minister of External Affairs Sushma Swaraj said 2015 had witnessed several important developments in the Asean-India relationship.

This dialogue provides policy makers, business executives and academics from both sides a multi-dimensional platform to tackle today’s challenges, the minister noted.

Swaraj hailed Asean’s achievements over the last five years and its increased importance in Asia-Pacific. “The establishment of the Asean Community last December is a commendable leap forward”, she added.

The Asean Community had opened up new opportunities for shared socio-economic development and India hoped to be part of this growth, she said.

Peace and stability are essential for progress and development, the official noted, highlighting the significance of ensuring maritime security.

The Vietnamese Vice Foreign Minister met with his Indian counterpart Swaraj after the session to discuss bilateral and regional issues of mutual interest.

Earlier the same day, he had a meeting with Anil Wadhwa, Indian Secretary (East) in the External Affairs Ministry.