Vietnam urges EU to approve EVIPA, support green transition

In the meeting with Beke, Deputy Chairman Le Minh Hoan underscored the importance of the meeting, which coincided with the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the EU (1990-2025). He affirmed that the EU is one of Vietnam’s leading partners and expressed appreciation for the dynamic, substantive, and comprehensive development of bilateral ties across many sectors. He also thanked the EU for its support, initiatives, and projects that have contributed to Vietnam’s socioeconomic development.

Based on this, the Deputy Chairman expressed his hope that the EU would continue to support Vietnam in developing a green economy. He urged the bloc to expedite the approval of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) to create a new breakthrough in bilateral investment, promptly lift the "yellow card" warning on Vietnamese seafood exports, and support the implementation of EU deforestation regulations. He also called for closer alignment of the ASEAN-EU Action Plans with ASEAN’s cooperation strategies to help build the ASEAN Community.

Wouter Beke, chair of the European Parliament delegation said Vietnam is an important partner for the EU in the region. He praised the effective implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and highlighted it as a successful model for negotiations with other partners. Beke also commended Vietnam’s efforts in combating climate change, fighting deforestation, and working toward its net-zero emissions goal. He expressed a desire to boost cooperation with the region, not only economically but also through initiatives like the Global Gateway and the EU’s Indo-Pacific Strategy.

To further strengthen Vietnam-EU relations, both leaders agreed to promote high-level delegation exchanges, especially during this anniversary year, effectively implement the EVFTA, further open their respective markets, and enhance cooperation in areas where the EU holds strengths, such as the green transition, digital transformation, environmental protection, climate change response, and science-technology.