Vietnam and the European Union are poised to enhance their strategic partnership by exploring maritime economic cooperation, focusing on ocean protection, maritime security, and sustainable development. This agreement was reached during discussions between Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and European Council President António Costa, marking a significant step in expanding bilateral relations.
The leaders emphasized their dedication to strengthening ties and progressing existing commitments into tangible projects that foster economic growth and improve living standards. The conversation also highlighted potential collaboration in green transition, innovation, strategic infrastructure, and the circular economy.
To Lam highlighted the EU as a priority partner for Vietnam, advocating for stronger trade, investment, and economic connectivity. He urged both parties to leverage the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement to boost commercial opportunities and called for advancements on addressing the EU’s concerns about illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as the swift ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement.
President Costa reaffirmed the EU’s commitment to deepening economic ties with Vietnam, citing initiatives like Global Gateway, aimed at supporting sustainable infrastructure investment and the energy transition. He expressed readiness to enhance collaboration in areas including maritime safety, cybersecurity, crisis management, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
Both leaders also discussed regional and international developments, agreeing to reinforce coordination through multilateral institutions. They reiterated their support for the United Nations Charter, international law, and peaceful dispute resolution, underscoring the importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region, alongside ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight as per international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The EU’s support for ASEAN centrality and Vietnam’s pivotal role in strengthening relations between Europe and Southeast Asia were also underscored. The discussions reflect growing momentum in Vietnam-EU relations, with both sides looking to expand cooperation in maritime industries, sustainable investment, trade, and regional security.