Australia and Viet Nam are looking forward to working together on future scientific and technological opportunities after an agreement was signed in Canberra yesterday, June 26.

The accord was signed by Australia's Minister for Science and Research Senator Don Farrell and Viet Nam's Minister for Science and Technology Nguyen Quan.

Senator Farrell said that the agreement underlined the firm friendship the two countries have established over the years and it was an important step for Australia to take in the ‘Asian Century.'

"Viet Nam is at the geographical centre of major shifts in global power and influence," he said.

"This agreement supports the development of the scientific and technological relationship that exists between Australia and Viet Nam and enables the continuation of joint research projects.

Areas of interest for both countries include understanding the impacts of climate change, identifying and implementing appropriate ways of adapting to climate change and supporting a lower-carbon growth, he said.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Viet Nam.