Vietnam and Switzerland have agreed to enhance their Comprehensive Partnership by focusing on trade, investment, scientific research, digital finance, and sustainable development. This decision follows the official visit of Swiss President Guy Parmelin to Vietnam, marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.
During this visit, both countries reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening political dialogue and economic ties, as well as collaborating through international institutions. A significant outcome of the discussions was the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Switzerland as a member. This agreement aims to improve market access, support business expansion, and create opportunities for enhanced trade and investment.
The bilateral trade between Vietnam and Switzerland, which surpassed $1 billion in 2025, is expected to increase further, with both countries encouraging greater Swiss investment in Vietnam. Areas of priority include green finance, digital technology, infrastructure, sustainable tourism, and high-quality workforce development.
In addition to trade and investment, the two nations identified opportunities for joint research and technology transfer in fields such as biomedicine, renewable energy, agriculture, and the digital economy. Collaborative efforts between government institutions, universities, and businesses are anticipated to foster innovation and apply research commercially.
The partnership also aims to strengthen educational exchanges involving experts, researchers, and students, leveraging Switzerland’s expertise in education and scientific research. Both countries expressed their support for sustainable development, free trade, multilateral cooperation, and a rules-based international order, believing that closer ties would contribute to economic growth and regional and global stability.