Belgian lower house leader affirms support for stronger ties with Vietnam

The two sides noted their satisfaction over the recent developments made in terms of bilateral relations and agreed to continue working together to deepen the relationship. This includes further co-operation between the two legislatures, especially when both nations carry out a range of activities marking the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic ties which were first established in 1973.

At the meeting, Ambassador Thao briefed his host on the situation of the two countries' relations, including the visit made by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in December, 2022.

Economy and trade is widely viewed as a bright spot, with two-way turnover in 2022 estimated to hit a record of about EUR6 billion, more than US$6.34 billion, up approximately 65% on-year, with this largely due to the effective enforcement of the EU- Vietnam Trade Agreement (EVFTA).

Co-operation between localities of the two countries continue to be promoted, especially in areas which match Belgium’s strengths and Vietnam’s demands, such as smart agriculture, renewable energy, seaports, and education.

As a means of bolstering co-operation in trade and investment, the Ambassador proposed that the Belgian Parliament support and accelerate the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

As part of the occasion, Ambassador Thao expressed hope that the Belgian Federal Parliament would closely co-operate to launch activities aimed at celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, with a focus on high-level exchange visits and strengthening links with the National Assembly (NA) of Vietnam.

The Ambassador conveyed an invitation by NA Chairman Vuong Dinh Hue to the Speaker of the Belgian Chamber of Representatives to visit Vietnam in 2023.

In response, Speaker Tillieux congratulated Vietnam on socio-economic development achievements in the post-COVID-19 recovery period, expressing great appreciation for the outcomes of PM Chinh's visit as a means of spurring on the country's socio-economic development, as well as the friendship and sound relations between the two countries.

Speaker Tillieux said leaders of the Belgian Parliament over the years have attached great importance to maintaining and consolidating ties with Vietnam, including co-operation between localities and people of the two nations.

She affirmed that she will continue to support and work closely with the NA of Vietnam in promoting common socio-economic concerns, sharing legislative experience, as well as implementing activities to celebrate the 50th anniversary of both nations’ diplomatic ties.