Vietnam is bolstering its strategic alliances with the European Union (EU) and Belgium, as high-level discussions in Brussels from October 21 to 24 aim to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, science and technology, renewable energy, and logistics. Led by Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam, the delegation reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to an independent, self-reliant, and diversified foreign policy.
In talks with European Council President Antonio Costa and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, both parties expressed a shared desire to deepen the Vietnam-EU Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, focusing on transforming existing agreements into actionable outcomes. The discussions touched on a variety of issues including sustainable infrastructure, clean energy, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, maritime security, and climate change. The EU highlighted its Global Gateway initiative as a means to support high-quality investment and sustainable connectivity projects in Vietnam.
Economic cooperation remains a keystone of these discussions. Vietnam urged the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and sought progress on the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement. Additionally, efforts to address the European Commission’s yellow card on Vietnamese seafood exports were emphasized. The EU showed readiness to support Vietnam’s goal of becoming a regional transport and transit hub, with specific projects like the Bac Ai hydropower project, Lien Chieu Port in Da Nang, and the renovation of Long Bien Bridge in Hanoi being focal points.
Vietnam and Belgium discussed potential collaborations in renewable energy, semiconductors, biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, agricultural innovation, and environmentally friendly industries. Belgium’s ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement was noted as a significant development for boosting investment confidence and expanding commercial ties.
Logistics and maritime transport were important topics in bilateral discussions. During a visit to the Port of Antwerp-Bruges, To Lam outlined Vietnam’s plans to develop modern, environmentally sustainable, and digitally advanced port infrastructure. An agreement between Vietnam Maritime Corporation and the port authority is expected to enhance cooperation in maritime transport, port management, and logistics, thereby strengthening connections between Vietnam and European markets.
Both sides underscored the importance of research, education, and innovation in driving long-term economic growth. Vietnam encouraged overseas Vietnamese experts and intellectuals in Europe to forge stronger links between universities, research institutions, and technology firms, contributing their expertise to Vietnam’s development.
These meetings are part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to diversify its international partnerships, attract investment, and reinforce its position in global supply chains. The closer cooperation with the EU and Belgium is anticipated to foster sustainable growth, technological progress, and enhanced economic connectivity between Southeast Asia and Europe.