Vietnam and the European Union have agreed to explore maritime economic cooperation as a new component of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This development emerged from discussions between Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and State President To Lam and European Council President António Costa during To Lam’s visit to the EU.
The cooperation will focus on ocean protection, maritime security, and sustainable development. Both leaders emphasized the importance of translating commitments into practical projects that promote economic growth and improve living standards. They underscored their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations in green transition, innovation, strategic infrastructure, and the circular economy.
To Lam highlighted the EU as a priority partner for Vietnam and called for stronger trade and economic connectivity. He urged the utilization of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement to expand commercial opportunities and pressed for advancements on the EU’s warning about illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing. Additionally, he called for the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement.
Costa reiterated the EU’s dedication to deepening economic ties with Vietnam, pointing to initiatives like Global Gateway, which supports sustainable infrastructure investment and the energy transition. He also expressed a willingness to enhance collaboration in areas such as maritime safety, cybersecurity, crisis management, and emerging technologies like artificial intelligence.
Both leaders discussed regional and international developments, agreeing to boost coordination through multilateral institutions. They reaffirmed their support for the United Nations Charter, international law, and the peaceful resolution of disputes. The importance of maintaining peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific, alongside freedom of navigation and overflight as per international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, was also emphasized.
The EU reiterated its support for ASEAN centrality and noted Vietnam’s role in strengthening Europe-Southeast Asia relations. These discussions reflect a growing momentum in Vietnam-EU relations, with both parties aiming to expand cooperation in maritime industries, sustainable investment, trade, and regional security.