In his speech at the Saud N. Al-Sabah Kuwait Diplomatic Institute on November 18, Prime Minister Chinh emphasised that the Vietnam–Kuwait relationship is not only built on a long history of cooperation but is also moving toward a new era of comprehensive, sustainable, and strategic development.

He recalled that Kuwait was the first Gulf country to provide ODA to Vietnam, beginning with the Dau Tieng irrigation project in 1979, and later supporting Vietnam with 600,000 vaccine doses during the COVID-19 pandemic. These acts of assistance demonstrate enduring friendship and tangible support, reflecting a reliable and close partnership.

Economic and trade cooperation between the two countries has also been dynamic, with notable projects such as the Nghi Son Refinery, which involves over US$9 billion in total investment, including more than US$3 billion from Kuwait. Kuwait is a leading trade and investment partner from the Middle East for Vietnam, with bilateral trade reaching US$7.3 billion in 2024.

Prime Minister Chinh stressed that while economic ties have great potential, the two countries aim to increase trade to US$12–15 billion by 2030, alongside launching negotiations on the Comprehensive Economic partnership Agreement (CEPA) and Vietnam–Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement. This underscores that the relationship is not only historical but also oriented toward strategic and sustainable growth.

Vietnam and Kuwait have agreed to upgrade their ties to a Strategic Partnership, covering nine key areas, including politics, security, defence, science and technology, energy, trade, investment, and food security.

In addition, both countries aim to strengthen cooperation in science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation across various sectors. They seek to reinforce energy collaboration, expand partnerships in the oil and gas sector, and provide high-quality services and human resources. Efforts will also focus on creating breakthroughs in investment relations, particularly in Vietnam’s International Financial Centre.

These examples illustrate that the Vietnam–Kuwait relationship is multidimensional, comprehensive, and strategic. The long-standing history of cooperation and practical support builds trust and cohesion. Economic and trade initiatives demonstrate potential for strong, strategic growth. The newly established partnership framework reflects a long-term vision covering political, security, scientific, technological, and energy sectors. Meanwhile, educational and people-to-people exchanges ensure sustainability and quality in the relationship.

Through these concrete examples, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh affirmed that Vietnam–Kuwait relations are entering a dynamic period of development, deserving recognition as a model of cooperation between Southeast Asia and the Gulf and a lasting bridge of friendship between Asia and the Middle East.

Prime Minister’s visit receives media spotlight in Kuwait

VOV.VN - Kuwaiti media outlets such as Kuwait News Agency and Kuwait Times extensively covered the official visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to Kuwait on November 17, reflecting the strong interest of the Gulf nation’s press in this event.