Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President Tô Lâm has advocated for enhanced strategic cooperation between Vietnam and the European Union (EU), emphasizing potential collaborations in trade, technology, green energy, and regional security. During his official visit to Belgium, Tô Lâm addressed the Egmont – Royal Institute for International Relations in Brussels, underscoring the EU’s crucial role in Vietnam’s foreign policy and long-term development plan.
Tô Lâm highlighted the prospects for strengthening ties despite differences in political systems and economic development levels between Vietnam and the EU. He shared Vietnam’s vision of transitioning to an innovation-driven economy with a focus on digital transformation, advanced technology, sustainable development, and increased productivity. The goal is to evolve into a modern industrialized developing country by 2030 and achieve high-income developed nation status by 2045.
Key areas identified for Vietnam–EU cooperation include bolstering trade and investment, securing supply chains, enhancing cybersecurity and maritime security, and fostering collaboration among the EU, Vietnam, and ASEAN. Tô Lâm called for increased European investment in strategic infrastructure, logistics, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. He also proposed establishing closer research partnerships, joint innovation initiatives, and technical assistance to aid Vietnamese businesses in meeting European environmental standards.
Addressing environmental concerns, Tô Lâm stressed the significance of green energy, climate change adaptation, and sustainable development, with a particular focus on environmental challenges in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. The address also encouraged expanded educational partnerships, research collaboration, and cultural exchanges between Vietnam and the EU.
Furthermore, Tô Lâm positioned Vietnam as a potential bridge between the EU and ASEAN, advocating for enhanced regional cooperation, economic growth, and adherence to a rules-based international order. He noted that strengthening Vietnam–EU and Vietnam–Belgium relations could yield enduring opportunities in trade, technology, and innovation.