Transcript of the initial meeting:

Vladimir Putin: Esteemed Mr President, allow me to welcome you to Moscow.

I am very glad to see you again. I am convinced that your visit will prove both positive and useful. As you know, you have many friends in Russia.

Apart from being a high-priority partner in the Asia-Pacific region, Vietnam is also our strategic partner. Unfortunately, this status has yet to be translated into full-fledged trade and economic relations. However, both nations have a huge potential. The growth rate recently posted by your country proves that our trade and economic relations have a future. I am convinced that the documents, to be signed during your visit, will serve as an additional base for facilitating our trade and economic ties.

Welcome to Moscow, Mr President.

Nguyen Minh Triet (As translated): Esteemed Mr Putin, Prime Minister of the Russian Federation,

I would like to thank you for finding time to receive me and the Vietnamese delegation. I am very glad to meet with you again in your new position.

Two months ago, we met during the Beijing Olympics. You are a good friend of the Vietnamese nation. You have opened a new phase in the development of our strategic partnership. I would like to convey best wishes and greetings from the entire Vietnamese leadership.

Owing to our profound respect and good feelings for Russia, we have closely followed this country's development. We admire what Russia has achieved under your guidance over the last few years.

Russia's successes are making the Russian and Vietnamese nations happy. This is also your personal achievement as a leader.

And now I would like to tell you an interesting anecdote. When I was elected President of Vietnam, many comrades-in-arms - Vietnamese revolutionaries - told me that I must learn from Mr Putin and follow his example because he had succeeded in changing Russia's image. He has enhanced Russia's international role. This is the pride of the Russian nation's revival. At that time, I told my comrades that I may not be able to do this, but that I would try and learn from Mr Putin.

Vladimir Putin: Mr President, we will soon mark the 65th anniversary of the Soviet people's victory in the 1941-1945 Great Patriotic War. But we also know about the Vietnamese nation's heroic resistance during the years of foreign military intervention. The heroic exploits of our veterans during the defence of our national interests are an example for all of us and for future generations, as well.

I believe these traits and sentiments bring the people of Vietnam and the Russian Federation closer together. This spiritual closeness has enabled us to expand bilateral relations and is the foundation of future Russian-Vietnamese relations.