Sang made the proposal at a meeting with Pekka Voutilainen, Finnish Ambassador to Vietnam, on December 3 to discuss collaboration in transport infrastructure development.

He noted that Vietnam is implementing numerous large-scale projects as part of its three strategic breakthroughs in infrastructure, particularly in transport.

Major projects underway include the North–South high-speed railway, urban rail lines in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, the Lao Cai – Hanoi – Hai Phong railway, the second phase of Long Thanh International Airport, the Cai Mep – Thi Vai port complex, and Lien Chieu Port in Da Nang. The total public investment for these projects is estimated at VND1.7 quadrillion (about US$72 billion).

The Deputy Minister proposed getting Finland’s financial support for projects approved under the government’s planning framework and encouraging Finnish contractors to participate in Vietnam’s public investment projects.

As the Ministry is currently drafting a new Vietnam Maritime Code, it hopes to learn from Finland’s experience in maritime and waterway legislation.

In addition, Vietnam is also developing its Transport Service Development Strategy to 2035, with a vision to 2050, which prioritises better multimodal connectivity to reduce logistics costs. It is looking forward to Finland’s support in this effort.

Sang also proposed that the two sides soon begin negotiations on a bilateral maritime trade agreement to create a foundation for comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Finland in maritime transport and logistics.

For his part, ambassador Voutilainen said Finland’s Trade Office in Vietnam operates across 12 key sectors and expressed hope that Finnish businesses would actively engage in Vietnam’s key projects. He noted that Finland has extensive experience in infrastructure development, particularly in maritime, inland waterway, and aviation sectors.

Vietnam, Finland elevate ties to strategic partnership, pledge closer cooperation

VOV.VN - Vietnam and Finland have officially upgraded their bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, pledging closer cooperation in circular economy, green transition, digital transformation, sustainable maritime development, and environmental and climate change initiatives, while reinforcing mutual support on regional and global issues.