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Vietnamese PM and Swiss President Agree to Elevate Bilateral Relations to Comprehensive Partnership

Davos, January 22, 2025 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính of Vietnam held talks with Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter during the 55th Annual Meeting of the World Economic Forum (WEF) in Davos. The leaders discussed strengthening bilateral ties and agreed to elevate their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership.

PM Chính congratulated President Keller-Sutter on her new role and expressed confidence in her ability to further enhance relations between Vietnam and Switzerland. He emphasized Vietnam’s deep appreciation for its multifaceted cooperation with Switzerland.

President Keller-Sutter affirmed Switzerland’s view of Vietnam as a key partner in the region and expressed her commitment to deepening political trust and expanding cooperation across various fields.

Advancing Bilateral Relations

The two leaders acknowledged the positive developments in Vietnam-Switzerland relations, particularly in politics, trade, investment, science, technology, and education. They agreed that upgrading their ties to a Comprehensive Partnership is a timely step to deepen cooperation and address global challenges effectively.

The Swiss President emphasized the importance of this partnership and urged both sides to work closely to implement their shared vision.

Economic Cooperation

Recognizing the potential for economic growth, the leaders pledged to boost two-way trade and prioritize the conclusion of negotiations for a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). They also agreed to resume talks on a bilateral investment promotion and protection agreement to facilitate economic exchanges and attract long-term investments.

PM Chính welcomed Switzerland’s continued support for Vietnam’s development cooperation from 2025 to 2028. In response, President Keller-Sutter expressed readiness to collaborate in innovation, digital transformation, artificial intelligence, climate change response, carbon credit trading, and establishing an international financial center in Ho Chi Minh City.

Education, Security, and Cultural Cooperation

The leaders emphasized the importance of collaboration in education, science, and culture, focusing on building a high-quality education system, fostering university partnerships, and promoting sustainable tourism.

In security and defense, they agreed to strengthen cooperation in defense industry development, peacekeeping participation, and signing defense and security agreements.

President Keller-Sutter thanked Vietnam for its visa exemptions for Swiss citizens, which have facilitated cultural exchanges and mutual understanding. She also praised the Vietnamese community in Switzerland for their contributions to local socio-economic development.

Regional and International Cooperation

The leaders discussed global challenges and pledged to enhance coordination at multilateral forums, including the United Nations and ASEAN-Switzerland dialogue partnerships.

During the talks, they witnessed the signing of a memorandum of understanding between their respective foreign ministries.

Diplomatic Invitation

On behalf of Vietnamese State President Lương Cường, PM Chính extended an invitation for President Keller-Sutter to visit Việt Nam, which she accepted with pleasure.

This meeting marks a significant milestone in Vietnam-Switzerland relations, laying the groundwork for deeper, more comprehensive cooperation in the years ahead.