- Vietnam and the EU elevated ties to the highest level to deepen strategic engagement
- Focus areas include defense, semiconductors, critical minerals, and infrastructure
- Both reaffirmed support for multilateralism and national sovereignty despite differences
The European Union and Vietnam announced an upgrade to their diplomatic relations recently. The two nations use this upgrade to strengthen their international partnerships which they need during times of worldwide economic and political instability.
The agreement does not require any mandatory actions but both Vietnam and the EU plan to expand their diplomatic relationship at a time when both nations face increased American tariffs on their exports.
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong described the upgrade as a historical milestone that demonstrates how much both nations have advanced their diplomatic relationship. He made the remarks during talks in Hanoi with European Council President Antonio Costa.
The two nations maintain strong economic ties which the Free Trade Agreement established in 2020 has brought about because it enables greater trade and investment between them.
Antonio Costa arrived in Hanoi after the European Union established a significant trade deal with India which had been finalized only days before his arrival. The upgraded partnership demonstrates EU recognition of Southeast Asia's strategic value and Vietnam's expanding international presence.
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Costa added, “At a moment when the international rules-based order is under threat from multiple sides, we need to start to stand side by side as reliable and predictable partners”.
The establishment of Vietnam's highest diplomatic relations which matches its ties to the United States, China and Russia will result in increased top-level meetings and joint policy development.
The newly established partnership will increase cooperation between partners in multiple fields according to the recent joint statement which was approved by both parties.
Costa recognized that the two parties had distinct opinions about human rights issues and Vietnam's relationship with Russia during the ongoing Ukraine conflict. Both parties established a basis for future cooperation through their shared dedication to multilateralism and their acceptance of independence territorial integrity and sovereignty rights.