France, Vietnam strengthen ties in strategic minerals cooperation

uring the meeting, Ha highlighted the significance of Gallezot's visit, calling it a positive step towards fostering collaboration between Vietnamese and French enterprises in a sector with immense potential. He emphasized that such efforts further enrich the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations, rooted in mutual understanding and a long-standing tradition of cooperation.

Ha expressed appreciation for the foundational research conducted by French geologists in Vietnam, which has greatly contributed to the development of the country's geological sector. He encouraged France to continue sharing valuable research materials on Vietnam’s geography and geology.

The Deputy PM noted Vietnam’s recent efforts in surveying areas for strategic minerals and metals. He underscored the importance of conducting comprehensive assessments of reserves, developing extraction and deep-processing roadmaps, adopting advanced technologies, and ensuring environmental protection. Ha also stressed the need for accurate demand forecasting, market mastery, and ensuring that such collaborations contribute effectively to Vietnam’s socio-economic development.

To further boost ties, Ha proposed that the French delegation collaborate closely with Vietnam’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment and relevant partners. He suggested piloting a cooperation project involving Vietnamese and French enterprises, focusing on technology transfer, extraction, deep processing, and supplying strategic mineral and metal products for both domestic and French markets.

Gallezot acknowledged the critical role of strategic minerals and metals in the socio-economic development of countries and globally. He emphasized Vietnam’s position as an important partner for France, citing its skilled workforce, rich mineral resources, and developing industry. France, he noted, brings international technical expertise and a strong presence of leading global enterprises in mining and mineral processing.

He also highlighted France’s increasing collaboration with Vietnamese partners, particularly in mining and processing technologies and environmental protection solutions. Gallezot proposed organizing expert exchanges to establish shared data and a roadmap for extraction and processing projects. He also suggested piloting joint initiatives involving enterprises from both nations.

The meeting concluded with both sides reaffirming their commitment to advancing bilateral cooperation in strategic minerals and metals, aiming for comprehensive and mutually beneficial results.