Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính’s recent European trip has yielded remarkable results, strengthening bilateral relations and affirming Vietnam’s growing international standing. Let’s delve into the details of this journey.
Notable Outcomes from Visits to Poland, Czech Republic, and Bilateral Activities in Switzerland
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính meets with Swiss Federal President Karin Keller-Sutter
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính meeting with Swiss Federal President Karin Keller-Sutter (Photo: Duong Giang/TTXVN).
1. Elevating Relations and Strengthening Political Trust
The official visits to Poland and the Czech Republic, along with bilateral activities in Switzerland, have opened new chapters in Vietnam’s relationships with these countries. Vietnam and Poland issued a joint statement aiming to elevate their relationship to a Strategic Partnership; Vietnam and the Czech Republic upgraded their ties to a Strategic Partnership, while Vietnam and Switzerland advanced to a Comprehensive Partnership. Both sides agreed to increase exchanges at all levels, particularly at the high level, to foster mutual understanding.
2. Boosting Economic and Trade Cooperation
A key highlight was the push for economic, trade, and investment cooperation. Vietnam, Poland, and the Czech Republic committed to further opening markets for agricultural and food products under the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA). Additionally, both parties agreed to expedite the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and accelerate negotiations on the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA).
Vietnam also signed eight cooperation agreements with the three countries covering diplomacy, labor, aviation, education, sports, and culture. The decision to waive visa requirements for citizens of Poland, the Czech Republic, and Switzerland was highly appreciated by leaders and public opinion in those countries.
3. Coordination at International and Regional Forums
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính and the leaders of the three countries extensively discussed regional and international issues, emphasizing the importance of resolving disputes peacefully based on international law and the UN Charter. Both sides agreed to enhance coordination and support each other at multilateral organizations and forums.
4. Attention to Overseas Vietnamese Communities
The visit underscored the government’s commitment to overseas Vietnamese communities. The Prime Minister requested that the leadership of the three countries create more favorable conditions for these communities to integrate better, preserve, and promote their cultural identity and Vietnamese language. Leaders of the respective countries highly valued the contributions of overseas Vietnamese to the socio-economic development of their host countries.
Results from the Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum in Davos
1. Leveraging International Cooperation Opportunities
During his over 30 hours in Davos, Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính participated in numerous multilateral and bilateral activities, meeting with top global business leaders. International businesses praised Vietnam’s management of its economy and society, committing to expanding cooperation and investment in priority areas such as high-tech, artificial intelligence, pharmaceuticals, smart infrastructure, green energy, and financial centers.
2. Communicating Development Messages
The Prime Minister shared Vietnam’s “three readiness” for the smart era: institutional readiness, resource readiness, and infrastructure readiness. These messages highlighted Vietnam’s aspirations, vision, and determination to develop, attracting attention from the international community.
3. Enhancing International Standing
The European tour further solidified Vietnam’s position on the global stage. The Prime Minister attended and spoke at four sessions, including three designed specifically for Vietnam by the WEF. A special dialogue session with the WEF on “Breaking into the Future: Vietnam’s Vision on Innovation and Global Role” left a deep impression.
Conclusion
Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính’s European trip was a resounding success, strengthening bilateral relations and enhancing Vietnam’s international standing. This is an opportunity for Vietnam to continue developing, integrating more deeply, and affirming its positive role in the international community.
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