Việt Nam and Australia’s Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have reached a consensus to enhance cooperation between their major cities, Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. This decision followed discussions between Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr. Ambassador Tâm expressed optimism about Barr’s forthcoming visit to Việt Nam, anticipating that it would pave the way for new collaborative opportunities.
During their talks, Ambassador Tâm underscored the potential for partnerships in areas such as renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and smart urban development. He proposed the establishment of a friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT, aiming to foster long-term collaboration across these sectors.
Chief Minister Barr, preparing for his inaugural visit to Việt Nam, recognized the country as one of the ACT’s key economic partners within its international engagement strategy. He responded positively to the idea of forming a sister-city relationship with Hà Nội and highlighted prospects for joint efforts in green transition, electric transport, and renewable energy projects, all aimed at achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Barr also expressed his readiness to engage in public diplomacy activities, particularly during future visits by senior Vietnamese leaders to Australia. His visit is expected to strengthen ties and explore further avenues for cooperation between the two regions.