At the meeting, Le expressed pleasure at seeing Ambassador Solbakken again and affirmed that Vietnam consistently values the development of its traditional friendship and all-around cooperation with Norway. More than half a century after the establishment of diplomatic ties on November 25, 1971, bilateral cooperation has recorded notable progress in a multitude of fields.

Le spoke highly of the ambassador’s efforts and those of the Norwegian Embassy in promoting bilateral relations in recent years, and agreed that the two sides should make full use of their respective strengths and needs, paving the way for cooperation in green transition, the circular economy and climate change response.

To further deepen political and diplomatic ties, the Deputy FM proposed stepping up delegation exchanges and high-level contacts across Party, State and people-to-people channels.

Looking toward the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Norway (November 25, 1971-November 25, 2026), she suggested that both sides coordinate a range of substantive activities to further enhance friendship, mutual understanding and effective cooperation, including cultural and culinary promotion events, business forums and thematic seminars in major cities of both countries.

On economic cooperation, Le called on Norway, in its role as coordinator within the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein, to help move negotiations toward an early conclusion of a Vietnam-EFTA Free Trade Agreement (FTA) on the basis of balanced interests.

She also encouraged Norwegian investment funds and companies to increase investment in Vietnam and continue supporting the implementation of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP).

Ambassador Solbakken welcomed the positive assessments, directions and cooperation measures put forward by the Deputy FM, affirming that Vietnam holds an important role and position in the region and that Norway desires to expand cooperation and further elevate bilateral relations.

The ambassador showed interest in early organization of the 10th Deputy FM-level Political Consultation in Oslo and in signing a visa exemption agreement for diplomatic passport holders to facilitate exchanges between the two countries.

She also proposed closer coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the ASEAN-Norway framework, to address global challenges and make use of cooperation opportunities in green transition and sustainable development.

She also proposed closer coordination and mutual support at multilateral forums, including the United Nations and the ASEAN–Norway framework, to deal with global challenges and identify practical avenues for cooperation in green transition and sustainable development.

Solbakken voiced confidence that negotiations on the Vietnam-EFTA FTA could make progress this year, contributing to bilateral and inter-regional trade and investment. She added that Norway has drawn up plans and will work closely with Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant ministries, sectors and localities to launch activities marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties in 2026.

Vietnam highly values traditional ties with Norway: Foreign Minister

Vietnam attaches importance to the traditional cooperation with Norway, stated Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son while receiving visiting State Secretary of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Erling Rimestad in Hanoi on March 1.