The Minister of Foreign Affairs, Le Hoai Trung, engaged in discussions with Jozef Sikela, the European Commissioner for International Partnerships, in Ha Noi on March 24. During the meeting, he voiced his optimism for enhancing the collaboration between Viet Nam and the EU in a more meaningful and efficient manner.
Trung observed that this marks the inaugural visit of an EU Commissioner to Viet Nam subsequent to the elevation of their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in January 2026, emphasizing the bloc's commitment to materializing the recently established framework through tangible collaborative efforts.
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He emphasized Vietnam's continuous efforts to advance the digital economy, environmentally-friendly economy, and circular economy in order to achieve rapid and sustainable economic growth.
The Foreign Minister emphasized the importance of the European Union as a key partner for the country. He proposed that in order to put the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership into practice, both sides should boost the frequency of mutual visits at all levels and improve coordination to effectively carry out cooperation initiatives.
This includes a special emphasis on advancing collaboration in science, technology, and innovation. He further encouraged both parties to maximize the benefits of the EU – Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to enhance economic and trade collaboration. The authority urged prompt approval of the EU – Viet Nam Investment Protection Agreement by the bloc, the withdrawal of the warning regarding Vietnamese seafood linked to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, and the removal of Viet Nam from the EU's list of jurisdictions deemed non-cooperative in tax matters.
Sikela commended Viet Nam's socio-economic accomplishments in a challenging global setting and confirmed the EU's willingness to assist the country's development strategy focused on science, technology, and innovation.
He noted that the group is keen on engaging in infrastructure, mining, and renewable energy initiatives in Viet Nam.
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The Commissioner, showing great importance to the potential of bilateral cooperation, concurred with the proposals of his host and assured that the EU will collaborate closely with Vietnamese authorities to successfully execute the new cooperation initiatives outlined in the Global Gateway initiative. This partnership will include efforts to raise financial resources, with a particular focus on green finance, as well as facilitate technology transfer and provide technical assistance in order to support Viet Nam in reaching its long-term development objectives.
He further stated that the successful execution of the EVFTA is essential in strengthening equitable and enduring trade and investment relationships. Both parties have reached a consensus to enhance collaboration and reciprocal backing at multifaceted gatherings, advocate for the principles of multilateralism, and uphold reverence for international laws, the facilitation of open trade, and the continuation of sustainable development.
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The importance of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) was emphasized, with both parties reaffirming their commitment to maintaining strong collaboration in utilizing Viet Nam's intermediary position in further enhancing ASEAN-EU relations. This is seen as a significant contribution to promoting peace, stability, cooperation, and prosperity in the regions and beyond.