Vietnam and the European Union (EU), along with Belgium, have deepened their strategic partnerships following a series of high-level discussions in Brussels from October 21 to 24. Led by Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam, the delegation focused on expanding cooperation in key areas such as trade, investment, science and technology, renewable energy, and logistics.
During meetings with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, the parties reaffirmed their commitment to the Vietnam-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. They aimed to translate existing agreements into tangible outcomes, with discussions emphasizing sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, maritime security, and climate change. The EU’s Global Gateway initiative was highlighted as a pivotal opportunity for supporting high-quality investment and sustainable connectivity in Vietnam.
Economic cooperation remained a central theme, with Vietnam advocating for the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and urging progress on the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. Additionally, Vietnam sought efforts to address the European Commission’s yellow card on its seafood exports. The EU expressed its readiness to support Vietnam’s aspirations to become a regional transport and transit hub, discussing cooperation on several projects, including the Bac Ai hydropower project, Lien Chieu Port in Da Nang, and the renovation of Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi.
Discussions with Belgium further explored opportunities in renewable energy, semiconductors, biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agricultural innovation, and environmentally friendly industries. Belgium’s ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement was underscored as a significant step towards bolstering investment confidence and expanding commercial ties.
Logistics and maritime transport were key topics in the bilateral discussions. A visit to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges allowed To Lam to outline Vietnam’s plans for developing modern, sustainable, and digitally advanced port infrastructure. An agreement between Vietnam Maritime Corporation and the port authority is anticipated to foster cooperation in maritime transport, port management, and logistics, enhancing connections between Vietnam and European markets.
Both sides also recognized the importance of research, education, and innovation in economic development. Vietnam encouraged overseas Vietnamese experts and intellectuals in Europe to strengthen links between universities, research institutions, and technology companies, contributing their expertise to Vietnam’s growth. These meetings reflect Vietnam’s broader strategy to diversify international partnerships, attract investment, and solidify its role in global supply chains, creating opportunities for sustainable growth and technological advancement between Southeast Asia and Europe.