The Oct. 20-24 trip produced significant outcomes, particularly the signing of Joint Declarations on the establishment of Strategic Partnerships between Vietnam and the two European nations, a landmark step that elevates long-standing friendship to new heights of cooperation.

The trip coincided with the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s diplomatic relations with Finland and the 75th with Bulgaria, symbolising enduring partnerships built on mutual trust and shared aspirations for peace, stability, and sustainable development.

According to Le Hoai Trung, Secretary of the Party Central Committee and Minister of Foreign Affairs, the new strategic partnerships will deepen political understanding, enhance coordination at international forums, and expand cooperation in traditional sectors such as trade and investment. They will also explore new areas including the circular economy, information technology, digital transformation, and green energy, all of which are Finland’s and Bulgaria’s strengths.

During his meetings, General Secretary To Lam and leaders of both countries agreed to strengthen collaboration in defence and security, reflecting mutual trust and shared priorities.

Presidents Alexander Stubb of Finland and Rumen Radev of Bulgaria welcomed General Secretary To Lam with high-level receptions, underscoring the importance they attach to ties with Vietnam. Both sides pledged to further broaden cooperation in emerging sectors such as circular economy, green transition, sustainable maritime development, digital transformation, environment, and climate change adaptation.

President Radev commended Vietnam’s impressive economic growth and its proactive foreign policy, saying that Vietnam’s recent reforms have created an increasingly attractive business environment for foreign investors.

For his part, General Secretary To Lam reaffirmed that Vietnam treasures its traditional friendships with Finland and Bulgaria, appreciates their past support for Vietnam’s reconstruction and development, and looks forward to continued cooperation in the new era.

A highlight of the visit was direct engagement with business communities in both European countries. The Vietnamese leader met with prominent Finnish and Bulgarian enterprises, listened to their recommendations, and invited them to explore long-term partnerships with Vietnam.

Stefan Sundman, Chairman of Finland’s UPM Group, a global pioneer in green and circular energy solutions, expressed strong confidence in Vietnam’s business environment. He said that UPM is excited about investment opportunities in Vietnam, and that its projects can contribute to Vietnam’s economic growth and sustainable development.

Addressing hundreds of entrepreneurs, General Secretary To Lam reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to creating favourable conditions for businesses from both sides to collaborate, especially amid global economic uncertainties. He emphasised that trade and economic cooperation remain central pillars of bilateral relations, driving shared prosperity.

Vietnam, he noted, possesses abundant mineral and rare-earth resources crucial for semiconductor production and high-tech industries. The country is ready to deepen cooperation in science and technology with international partners, including Finland and Bulgaria.

While in Bulgaria, the Vietnamese leader also delivered a policy speech at Sofia University, outlining five strategic pillars for future cooperation. He suggested maintaining regular high-level visits and exchanges, strengthening defence and security cooperation, expanding economic, trade, and investment partnerships, supporting multilateralism, and promoting peace, stability, and freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law.

The success of General Secretary To Lam’s European tour lays a solid foundation for Vietnam, Finland, and Bulgaria to continue writing new chapters of cooperation for the peace and prosperity of each nation, the region, and the wider world.

Party leader To Lam concludes official visit to Bulgaria

VOV.VN - Party General Secretary To Lam and his spouse along with a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation landed at Noi Bai International Airport, Hanoi, on October 25 (local time), concluding a successful official visit to Bulgaria at the invitation of President Rumen Radev.