In Hanoi, Vietnam and the Netherlands have reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral cooperation during their second deputy minister-level political consultation. Co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Lê Thị Thu Hằng and Dutch Deputy Foreign Minister Marcel de Vink, the meeting underscored the progress in their diplomatic ties and the mutual desire to enhance economic collaboration and regional partnerships.
Vietnam emphasized its strategic goals to attain upper-middle-income status by 2030 and to become a developed, high-income country by 2045. To realize these ambitions, the nation is prioritizing science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation as essential components for sustainable development. As part of this vision, Vietnam called for a deepened implementation of the Comprehensive Partnership and existing strategic frameworks with the Netherlands, seeking enhanced cooperation in areas such as trade, investment, sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and innovation.
The Netherlands, recognizing Vietnam as an important partner in the Asia-Pacific region, reaffirmed its dedication to fostering strong bilateral relations. Dutch officials noted their interest in expanding partnerships in high-tech industries, including semiconductors and artificial intelligence, as well as in scientific research and workforce development. The Dutch side also expressed intentions to send larger business delegations to Vietnam to further these collaborative efforts.
In addition to economic ties, both nations agreed to intensify cooperation in security, defense, justice, culture, and tourism. They also plan to encourage people-to-people exchanges and closer connections between local governments and businesses. On a broader scale, both countries emphasized their support for multilateralism, free trade, and peaceful dispute resolution in line with international law, stressing the significance of maintaining peace, stability, and freedom of navigation under the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
Vietnam further urged the Netherlands to support the ratification of the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement and advocated for the removal of trade barriers affecting seafood exports. The consultation highlighted the mutual commitment of Vietnam and the Netherlands to a comprehensive and strategic partnership, reinforcing their roles as key players in promoting regional security and economic prosperity.