Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President Tô Lâm has advocated for enhanced strategic cooperation with the European Union (EU), emphasizing opportunities in trade, technology, and regional security. During his official visit to Belgium, Tô Lâm addressed the Egmont – Royal Institute for International Relations in Brussels, underscoring the EU’s significant role in Vietnam’s foreign policy and long-term development goals.
Tô Lâm highlighted Vietnam’s ambition to transition towards an innovation-driven economy, focusing on digital transformation, advanced technology, and sustainable development. He outlined Vietnam’s target to become a modern industrialized developing country by 2030 and a high-income developed nation by 2045.
The Vietnamese leader identified key priorities for Vietnam–EU collaboration, including bolstering trade and investment, securing supply chains, and improving cybersecurity and maritime security. He encouraged greater European investment in strategic sectors such as infrastructure, logistics, semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and biotechnology. Additionally, he proposed closer research partnerships and joint innovation initiatives to aid Vietnamese businesses in adhering to European environmental standards.
Green energy and climate change adaptation were also focal points, with particular attention on addressing environmental challenges in Vietnam’s Mekong Delta. Tô Lâm emphasized the importance of expanding educational partnerships, research collaboration, and cultural exchanges between the two regions.
Furthermore, Tô Lâm positioned Vietnam as a potential bridge between the EU and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), fostering regional cooperation and economic growth. He suggested that strengthening Vietnam–EU and Vietnam–Belgium relations could lead to lasting opportunities in trade, technology, and innovation.