(VOVworld)- Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong’s official visits to Belgium and the EU constitute his first trip to Western Europe as the Party leader. The visits will open a new cooperation framework for relations between Vietnam and the EU and help to boost Vietnam-Belgium relations.
Trong’s visit to the European Union takes place during a prolonged financial crisis and economic recession. Many countries, including the biggest world powers are seeking ways to resolve the consequences of the crisis, with peace, cooperation, integration and development representing major goals. The Asia Pacific region continues to be seen as a dynamic region and the EU is paying increasing attention to the region and to Vietnam. In recent years, the EU has showed keen interest in boosting relations with Vietnam and considers Vietnam a gateway to ASEAN. During his official visit to Vietnam last October, EC President Herman Van Rompuy said: ““Vietnam is particularly important partner for the European Union and ASEAN. The European Union will stand firmly on Vietnam’s side in its economic and social development process. We are committed to keeping our market open. European Union investment can and will continue to make their contribution to the future of Vietnam and its people. We will continue our development assistance. We had strong interest in the success of Vietnam reforms because as Vietnam succeeds it will benefit its region and its friends all over the world”.
In the last 20 years, the Vietnam-EU relationship has developed rapidly. EU is Vietnam’s leading partner and was its largest export market in 2012. In recent years, two-way trade turnover increased 15 to 20% annually. The EU is Vietnam’s second largest ODA donor and the biggest non-refundable aid provider, accounting for 20% of international commitments for Vietnam. In 2012, the two sides signed a Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement and concluded the first round of Free Trade Agreement negotiations. Mr. Le Hai Binh, Head of the Department of External Policies under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs says: “The Asia-Pacific region has drawn increasing attention from other countries and regions including the EU, which has showed particular interest in Vietnam. Vietnam and the EU have signed a Comprehensive Partnership and Cooperation Agreement. Though the Agreement still needs to be approved by 27 countries before it comes into effect, it marks a turning point in the cooperation between Vietnam and the EU. In addition, the two sides have begun negotiations on a bilateral Free Trade Agreement”.
Trong’s visit to the EU is expected to further enhance the bilateral ties, resolve pending issues and boost the implementation of EU funded agreements. At a meeting with EC leaders, Trong will voice Vietnam’s respect for relations with the EU and its commitment to deepening the bilateral ties and acting as a coordinator of ASEAN-EU relations.
As an EU member, Belgium is one of the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam. The two countries have developed bilateral friendship and cooperation in various fields including politics, diplomacy, economic, development cooperation, education and training. Mr. Trong’s visit to Belgium will lay a foundation for enhancing bilateral ties in the near future.
Anh Huyen