Bilateral cooperation, particularly the joint fight against COVID-19, was a major highlight of Premier Li Keqiang"s telephone conversation with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Friday morning.

During their talks, the two leaders also agreed to properly handle maritime issues in accordance with the consensus reached between the two sides and jointly safeguard peace and stability in the South China Sea.

The two leaders" talks took place at a time when the two countries are faced with the impact of COVID-19 and challenges brought by the world economy"s rising uncertainty and instability.

The expansion of mutually beneficial and win-win cooperation between China and Vietnam is conducive to East Asia"s economic stability and recovery, the premier said.

Beijing is ready to strengthen cooperation with Hanoi in COVID-19 prevention and control, as well as the research, development and production of vaccines, Li added.

China will continue to provide support and assistance to Vietnam within its capabilities, and it is hoped that the Vietnamese side will facilitate the vaccination of Chinese citizens in Vietnam, he said.