During his meeting with Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone, Son briefed him on Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements and ongoing efforts to streamline the political system for greater efficiency. He expressed satisfaction with the growing economic, trade, and investment ties between the two countries, highlighting that two-way trade reached US$2.25 billion in 2024, up 38.2% year on year.

Sonexay reaffirmed Laos’ commitment to strengthening its special relationship with Vietnam and requested further cooperation in macroeconomic stability and economic self-reliance. Both sides agreed to step up collaboration across multiple fields, including politics, security, investment, trade, and transport connectivity, while fostering economic, cultural, and scientific-technical ties. They underscored the importance of preserving and nurturing the Vietnam-Laos relationship for future generations.

In a brief meeting with UAE Vice President Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Son reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to carrying out high-level agreements and boosting ties with the UAE. He called for active cooperation in translating leaders' commitments into concrete actions, particularly through the swift ratification and implementation of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). Priority areas include economy, trade, investment, defence, high technology, green transition, digital transformation, agriculture, and labour.

The UAE Vice President confirmed that investment agencies and funds have been directed to develop cooperation plans in these areas. He noted that the UAE Minister of Investment recently visited Vietnam to discuss specific projects.

In a separate meeting, UAE Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan praised Vietnam’s economic growth, investment climate, and governance reforms, noting that Vietnam’s participation in WGS 2025 contributed to the event’s success. Son, in turn, acknowledged the UAE’s growing global influence in shaping governance and innovation.

Both sides welcomed the positive momentum in bilateral cooperation, marked by increased high-level exchanges and business discussions. They consented to accelerate the signing of an action plan to implement the Vietnam-UAE comprehensive partnership effectively.

Son conveyed invitations from Vietnam’s top leaders for the UAE President and Prime Minister to visit Vietnam. With a shared goal of boosting bilateral trade to US$20 billion, both sides pledged to expedite CEPA approval and launch its implementation in the first quarter of 2025. They also pledged to intensify investment collaboration, particularly in strategic sectors such as digital transformation, logistics, and renewable energy.

Son sought the UAE’s support in developing Vietnam’s international financial centres in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, free trade zones in Ba Ria-Vung Tau and Hai Phong, and expanding Vietnam’s Halal industry. Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan welcomed these proposals, affirming that Vietnam is one of the UAE’s key partners in the region. He also suggested expanding labour cooperation to meet the UAE’s growing workforce demand.

The two ministers concurred to hold a political consultation this year to review and advance bilateral cooperation. They also explored the possibility of establishing cultural centres in each country to promote people-to-people exchanges and mutual understanding.

Son invited Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan to visit Vietnam again at a convenient time, and the latter accepted the invitation.

Vietnam desires to enhance comprehensive partnership with UAE

VOV.VN - Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son reaffirmed that Vietnam values the enhancement of its Comprehensive Partnership with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) during a meeting with UAE Minister of Investment Mohamed Alsuwaidi in Hanoi on February 8.