Vietnam and the Netherlands have solidified their commitment to enhancing cooperation in various sectors during their second deputy minister-level political consultation held in Hanoi. The meeting, co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Lê Thị Thu Hằng and Dutch Deputy Foreign Minister Marcel de Vink, saw both nations reflect on the progress made in bilateral relations, emphasizing the growth in diplomatic exchanges and economic cooperation, as well as their collaboration in regional and international forums.
Vietnam set forth its vision to become an upper-middle-income nation by 2030 and reach developed, high-income status by 2045. To achieve these milestones, the country plans to prioritize science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation as central to its sustainable development strategy. The Vietnamese delegation also called for a deeper implementation of the two countries’ Comprehensive Partnership and existing strategic cooperation frameworks, advocating for enhanced collaboration in trade, investment, sustainable agriculture, climate adaptation, green transition, and digital transformation.
The Vietnamese officials highlighted the importance of the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement, urging its ratification and calling for the elimination of trade barriers impacting seafood exports. Meanwhile, the Netherlands reiterated its dedication to strengthening ties with Vietnam, recognizing the Southeast Asian nation as a key and reliable partner in the Asia-Pacific region. Dutch representatives expressed interest in sending larger business delegations to Vietnam and expanding partnerships in high-tech industries, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence, scientific research, and workforce development.
Both countries agreed to boost cooperation in areas such as security, defense, justice, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges. They also encouraged stronger connections between local governments and businesses. On broader regional and global matters, the two sides reaffirmed their support for multilateralism, free trade, and the peaceful resolution of disputes in line with international law. Additionally, they underscored the significance of maintaining peace, stability, and freedom of navigation and overflight, particularly within the framework of the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.