The European Union and Vietnam agreed Thursday to deepen cooperation on trade, investment and critical raw materials during Vietnamese leader To Lam’s visit to Brussels.
– Lam, Vietnam’s president, met European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen and European Council President Antonio Costa to discuss cooperation, regional security and global challenges.
– They called for “full implementation of the EU–Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement and swift ratification of the Investment Protection Agreement,” according to a joint statement.
– The leaders also agreed to “work towards developing cooperation on Critical Raw Materials” and deepen ties in technology, innovation, education, strategic infrastructure and the green transition.
– They welcomed the momentum in relations following their elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in January, reaffirming plans to advance Global Gateway investments and the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
– On defense, the statement highlighted “the potential for cooperation in defence and security in accordance with their respective laws, priorities and policies.”
– Existing cooperation covers maritime safety and security, cybersecurity, crisis management and capacity-building.
– The leaders reaffirmed their commitment to “the promotion and protection of human rights, including through the dedicated bilateral dialogue.”
– They also underscored “the importance of effective multilateralism and a rules-based international order.”