Vietnam has taken significant steps to bolster its strategic partnerships with the European Union (EU) and Belgium, following high-level discussions in Brussels from October 21 to 24. These talks aimed to expand cooperation across various sectors, including trade, technology, and green energy.
Leading the Vietnamese delegation was Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam, who reinforced Vietnam’s commitment to an independent and diversified foreign policy. During meetings with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, both parties expressed a commitment to enhancing the Vietnam-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and translating existing agreements into actionable outcomes.
The discussions addressed a range of topics crucial to both parties, focusing on sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, maritime security, and climate change. The EU highlighted its Global Gateway initiative as a means to support high-quality investment and sustainable connectivity projects in Vietnam.
Economic cooperation was a focal point, with Vietnam urging for more effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and progress on the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. Additionally, Vietnam called for efforts to resolve the European Commission’s yellow card on its seafood exports.
Vietnam and Belgium explored opportunities in renewable energy, semiconductors, biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agricultural innovation, and environmentally friendly industries. Belgium’s ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement was noted as a critical step toward boosting investment confidence and commercial ties.
Logistics and maritime transport were significant discussion points, highlighted by To Lam’s visit to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. An agreement with the port authority is expected to support cooperation in maritime transport, port management, and logistics, enhancing connections between Vietnam and European markets.
Both sides emphasized the importance of research, education, and innovation in underpinning long-term economic development. Vietnam encouraged overseas Vietnamese experts and intellectuals in Europe to foster links between universities, research institutions, and technology companies, contributing to Vietnam’s development. These meetings underscore Vietnam’s broader strategy to diversify international partnerships, attract investment, and strengthen its position in global supply chains.