In a bid to reinforce the robust ties between Vietnam and South Korea, Vietnam’s National Assembly President Trần Thanh Mẫn recently welcomed a delegation from the Korea–Vietnam Friendship Association, led by Chairman Lee Shin-jae, in Hanoi. The meeting focused on enhancing bilateral relations and promoting exchanges between the people of both nations.
President Mẫn acknowledged the significant role of the Korea–Vietnam Friendship Association in fostering cooperation and friendship between the two countries. He emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges, educational support, and humanitarian efforts in fostering mutual understanding and strengthening bonds between Vietnamese and South Korean populations.
South Korea is a key partner for Vietnam across various sectors, including trade, investment, science and technology, tourism, and education. The country is among the largest foreign investors in Vietnam, with a registered investment surpassing $100 billion, while bilateral trade figures range from $80 to $90 billion annually. Tourism also remains a vital component of their relationship, with over three million South Korean tourists visiting Vietnam in the first nine months of the year alone.
During the discussions, President Mẫn praised the association’s initiatives, which include scholarships for Vietnamese students, school construction projects, cultural programs, and humanitarian assistance to communities affected by natural disasters. The association also supports Vietnamese citizens residing in South Korea.
Chairman Lee Shin-jae reiterated the association’s dedication to deepening the friendship between the two nations. He stressed the importance of collaborations beyond governmental interactions, particularly through cultural programs, educational initiatives, and community exchanges. Lee also expressed an interest in expanding partnerships with Vietnamese organizations and businesses in emerging sectors such as artificial intelligence and technology transfer.
President Mẫn called for increased trade and investment promotion, enhanced business connectivity, and deeper cooperation in advanced technologies, innovation, and the semiconductor industry. He encouraged Korean companies to further invest in Vietnam and urged Vietnamese businesses to become more active in South Korean supply chains.
The meeting underscored the significance of strengthening parliamentary cooperation, with Vietnam’s National Assembly committed to maintaining close ties with South Korea’s legislature through exchanges of legislative expertise and parliamentary oversight practices.