Vietnam is bolstering its strategic ties with the European Union (EU) and Belgium following a series of high-level discussions in Brussels from October 21 to 24. These talks aimed at enhancing collaboration in multiple sectors, including trade, investment, technology, and renewable energy.
General Secretary of the Vietnamese Communist Party, To Lam, led the delegation to the EU and Belgium, underscoring Vietnam’s commitment to a foreign policy that is independent, self-reliant, and diversified. The meetings involved key European figures such as European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, where both parties expressed a mutual desire to deepen the Vietnam-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
The discussions focused on several crucial areas, including sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, digital transformation, and climate change. The EU presented its Global Gateway initiative as a means to support high-quality investment and connectivity projects in Vietnam. Vietnam pushed for more effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and sought progress on the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. Additionally, Vietnam urged the EU to address the European Commission’s yellow card on its seafood exports, which impacts trade.
In terms of economic cooperation, the EU showed readiness to back Vietnam’s ambitions to become a regional transport and transit hub. Projects such as the Bac Ai hydropower project, Lien Chieu Port in Da Nang, and the preservation of Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi were highlighted during the talks. Logistics and maritime transport were significant topics, with Vietnam outlining plans to modernize its port infrastructure during a visit to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges. An agreement between Vietnam Maritime Corporation and the port authority is anticipated to bolster maritime transport and logistics connectivity with European markets.
Vietnam and Belgium also explored collaboration opportunities in renewable energy, semiconductors, biotechnology, healthcare, and environmentally friendly industries. Belgium’s ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement was seen as a vital step to boost investment confidence and commercial ties.
The discussions emphasized the role of research, education, and innovation in economic development. Vietnam encouraged Vietnamese experts and intellectuals in Europe to strengthen connections between universities and technology firms, contributing their expertise to Vietnam’s growth.
This diplomatic engagement reflects Vietnam’s broader efforts to diversify its international partnerships, attract investment, and strengthen its global supply chain position. Enhanced cooperation with the EU and Belgium is expected to pave the way for sustainable economic growth and technological advancement, bridging Southeast Asia and Europe more closely.