Vietnam and Switzerland have taken significant steps to enhance their Comprehensive Partnership, with a focus on trade, investment, scientific research, digital finance, and sustainable development. This development follows the official visit of Swiss President Guy Parmelin to Vietnam, coinciding with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations. The visit underscored a mutual commitment to deepen cooperation in areas of shared interest.
A notable outcome of the visit is the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Switzerland as a member. This agreement aims to improve market access, facilitate business expansion, and create new opportunities for trade and investment, pending its implementation.
During discussions, leaders from both countries emphasized the importance of strengthening political dialogue and economic ties, as well as collaborating through international institutions. They also agreed to expand exchanges among government agencies, businesses, universities, and research entities. The discussions highlighted the ambition to increase bilateral trade, which surpassed $1 billion in 2025, and to encourage more Swiss investments in Vietnam, especially in sectors like green finance, digital technology, infrastructure, sustainable tourism, and high-quality workforce development.
In addition to economic collaboration, both nations identified potential areas for joint research and technology transfer, particularly in biomedicine, renewable energy, agriculture, and the digital economy. This cooperation is expected to foster innovation and support the commercial application of research through partnerships between government bodies, universities, and businesses.
Vietnam also aims to bolster educational partnerships, facilitating exchanges involving experts, researchers, and students, leveraging Switzerland’s expertise in education and scientific research. Both countries reiterated their dedication to sustainable development, free trade, multilateral cooperation, and a rules-based international order, expressing confidence that these collaborative efforts would bolster economic growth and contribute to regional and global stability.