Rome, April 15, 2026 – The Europe Today: Chairman of the National Assembly of Việt Nam Trần Thanh Mẫn reaffirmed his country’s strong commitment to enhancing ties with Italy during a meeting with Licia Ronzulli in Rome on Monday, underscoring the importance of Italy’s leading role in Europe and globally.
During the meeting, Chairman Mẫn expressed appreciation for the warm reception extended by the Italian Senate and voiced confidence that his official visit would further strengthen the Việt Nam–Italy Strategic Partnership, established in 2013, as well as deepen parliamentary cooperation between the two countries.
Highlighting Việt Nam’s recent political and economic developments, the Vietnamese leader noted the successful organization of the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party and the election of deputies to the 16th National Assembly. He emphasized that Việt Nam is accelerating economic restructuring alongside a renewed growth model focused on digital transformation, green growth, the digital economy, and the circular economy.
Both sides expressed satisfaction with the steady progress in bilateral relations, while acknowledging significant untapped potential for cooperation, particularly in high-tech industries, digital transformation, energy, and manufacturing sectors such as textiles, leather, and footwear. Chairman Mẫn called for enhanced delegation exchanges, effective implementation of existing agreements, and closer coordination in regional and international parliamentary forums, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the Asia-Europe Parliamentary Partnership.
On economic cooperation, the Vietnamese side emphasized the importance of maximizing the benefits of the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement to boost trade and investment flows. Chairman Mẫn also urged Italy to support the ratification of the EU–Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement and advocated for the removal of the European Union’s “yellow card” on Việt Nam’s seafood exports, as well as reconsideration of the country’s tax-related classification.
Expressing gratitude for Italy’s long-standing development assistance, Chairman Mẫn proposed continued cooperation in priority sectors and expanded collaboration in defence, culture, education, science and technology, and people-to-people exchanges. He also suggested visa facilitation measures to promote greater mobility between the two nations.
For her part, Vice President Ronzulli reaffirmed Italy’s recognition of Việt Nam as a dynamic and strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. She expressed strong support for advancing bilateral cooperation, including the effective implementation of trade agreements and efforts to enhance investment flows. She also highlighted growing opportunities in energy, artificial intelligence, innovation, and tourism, noting the increasing presence of Italian enterprises in Việt Nam.
Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination at multilateral platforms, including the United Nations and within the ASEAN–EU framework, emphasizing their shared commitment to promoting global peace, stability, and prosperity through multilateralism.
On the occasion, Chairman Mẫn extended invitations to Vice President Ronzulli and the President of the Italian Senate to visit Việt Nam, reflecting the mutual desire to elevate bilateral relations to new heights.
