Vietnam and Norway have committed to enhancing their bilateral cooperation across several sectors, including trade, renewable energy, and maritime development. This agreement comes as both nations prepare to celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. The discussions were led by Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang and Norwegian State Secretary Astrid Bergmål during a meeting in Hanoi.
A significant outcome of the meeting was the advancement of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states. Le Thi Thu Hang emphasized the importance of finalizing the ratification process, noting that the agreement is expected to boost market access, foster business partnerships, and offer greater certainty for investors after 14 years of negotiation.
The Green Strategic Partnership, signed in April, was highlighted as a key initiative to support sustainable development and energy transition. Vietnam has encouraged Norwegian enterprises and financial entities to increase their investment in areas such as renewable energy, maritime transport, shipbuilding, and high-tech aquaculture. Norway expressed its interest in collaborating on marine management, sustainable aquaculture, green shipping, and the circular economy, with an emphasis on technology exchange to achieve carbon neutrality and enhance energy security.
The two countries also discussed strengthening their collaboration within the ASEAN-Norway partnership from 2026 to 2030. This partnership will focus on areas such as the blue economy, energy transition, connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development. Both nations agreed to bolster coordination between their foreign ministries and support each other in various international forums, including the United Nations.
These discussions underscore the mutual commitment of Vietnam and Norway to deepen economic opportunities, enhance diplomatic ties, and promote sustainable growth. Both countries reiterated their dedication to upholding free trade principles, international law, and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.