Vietnamese leader To Lam’s Mongolia visit is of historical significance, says ambassador

Towards new relationship framework

The September 30 – October 1 visit plays a crucial role in promoting multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, with a primary focus on elevating bilateral relations to new heights, that reflects the potential, strengths, and rich historical ties, creating new momentum for increasingly substantive and effective cooperation, said Thanh in an interview with VOV ahead of To Lam’s departure.

During his two-day stay, he said General Secretary and President To Lam will meet with the President, Prime Minister, and Speaker of the Mongolian Parliament, as well as major economic corporations in Mongolia.

The two sides will engage in in-depth discussions to work out strategic directions and solutions aimed at enhancing political trust and strengthening bilateral relations across all areas for more stable, substantive, and effective development in the future, commensurate with the newly established level of relations.

High on the agenda will be discussions on measures to foster bilateral cooperation in various areas such as economy, trade, culture, tourism, education-training, agriculture, mining, livestock breeding, and security and defense. It is expected that several new cooperation documents will be signed during the visit to realize the two sides’ objectives.

According to Ambassador Thanh, elevating bilateral relations to a new level demonstrates both sides’ desires to enhance comprehensive cooperation across various fields. It also opens up many new opportunities for both sides to leverage untapped cooperation potential and promote people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding.

Upgrading diplomatic relations not only marks a significant political milestone but also contributes to sustainable development, reinforces trust, and lays the groundwork for new advancements in bilateral cooperation, stressed the diplomat.

Such the scheme will enable both Vietnam and Mongolia to ramp up cooperation in regional and international forums where both are members, such as the United Nations, Asia-Europe Meeting (ASEM), ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF), and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), particularly in supporting global issues like climate change and the protection of international peace and stability. Improved relations will also help both countries to find common ground on major regional and global issues.

Economic cooperation is key pillar

In his views, the two countries hold great potential for economic cooperation, as their economic strengths are complementary rather than competitive.

Mongolia possesses many valuable minerals and abundant rare earth resources, which are important raw materials for various production sectors in Vietnam. In addition, with nearly 70 million livestock, Mongolia has the potential to supply raw materials such as meat, milk, leather, and fur, while Vietnam can provide processed products and consumer goods. Furthermore, with a population of 100 million and 16 free trade agreements (FTAs) signed, Vietnam promises to be a large and highly potential market for Mongolian businesses.

Cooperation in tourism and aviation also holds significant potential for development, creating great opportunities for enterprises from both sides.

Despite limited information about each other’s markets and logistics barriers, the ambassador pointed out that many Vietnamese and Mongolian companies have begun to show interest and engage in trade and investment promotion activities. Trade fairs, exhibitions, and bilateral business forums are regularly organized, making it easier for businesses to find partners and expand their markets.

The Vietnamese Embassy in Mongolia is committed to actively supporting the connection between businesses from both countries, by enhancing the provision of market information, organizing trade promotion events, and closely coordinating with relevant agencies and business associations to boost bilateral economic cooperation, he said.

On this occasion, he revealed that Vietnam Culture Day in Mongolia will be held from September 30 to October 1 in the capital city of Ulaanbaatar. This event, part of Vietnam’s strategy to promote cultural diplomacy, will not only give the Mongolian people and international friends the chance to explore, experience, and gain deeper insights into Vietnamese culture, history, and people, but also present a chance to strengthen bilateral cooperation in various fields.