Vietnam is advancing its strategic partnerships with the European Union and Belgium, as evidenced by a series of high-level meetings in Brussels from October 21 to 24. Led by Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam, these discussions aimed to bolster cooperation in trade, technology, and green energy.
The meetings with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen highlighted a mutual desire to enhance the Vietnam-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This includes translating existing agreements into actionable outcomes, with a focus on sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, digital transformation, and maritime security. The EU’s Global Gateway initiative was presented as a means to facilitate high-quality investments and sustainable connectivity projects in Vietnam.
Economic cooperation remained a focal point, with Vietnam advocating for the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and progress on the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. Additionally, Vietnam sought EU support in addressing the European Commission’s yellow card on its seafood exports. The EU expressed its willingness to assist Vietnam in becoming a regional transport and transit hub.
In bilateral talks with Belgium, both nations agreed to explore opportunities in renewable energy, semiconductors, biotechnology, and other environmentally friendly industries. Belgium’s ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement was underscored as a crucial step towards fostering investment confidence and expanding commercial ties.
Logistics and maritime transport were also key topics, with To Lam discussing Vietnam’s plans for modern, sustainable port infrastructure during a visit to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. An agreement between Vietnam Maritime Corporation and the port authority is expected to enhance maritime transport, port management, and logistics cooperation, thereby improving connectivity between Vietnam and European markets.
Furthermore, both sides emphasized the significance of research, education, and innovation for long-term economic development. Vietnam encouraged overseas Vietnamese experts in Europe to strengthen ties between universities, research institutions, and technology companies, contributing their expertise to the country’s progress.
This series of meetings underscores Vietnam’s broader strategy to diversify international partnerships, attract investment, and solidify its position in global supply chains. Strengthened cooperation with the EU and Belgium is anticipated to foster sustainable growth and technological advancement, enhancing economic connectivity between Southeast Asia and Europe.