Hanoi, October 18, 2026 – The Europe Today: Prime Minister of Vietnam Lê Minh Hưng and President of the Swiss Confederation Guy Parmelin have agreed to make education and training, science and technology, and innovation the focus of cooperation between the two countries, during their meeting in Hanoi on Saturday.
Warmly welcoming the Swiss President on his official visit to Vietnam, which coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, Prime Minister Hưng affirmed that Vietnam deeply values the support and assistance extended by the Swiss Government and people during its past struggle for national independence and reunification, as well as in its ongoing development and international integration.
He stressed that Vietnam regards Switzerland as a reliable friend and an important partner in Europe, and expressed the wish to further strengthen political trust, increase high-level visits and exchanges, make better use of existing cooperation mechanisms, and establish at an early date an intergovernmental cooperation framework in the economy, science and technology, and innovation.
The Prime Minister noted that the visit opens a new chapter in bilateral relations, marked in particular by the signing of the free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (VEFTA). Appreciating Switzerland’s active role in bringing the agreement to signature, he called for joint efforts to ensure that VEFTA enters into force promptly, driving breakthroughs in trade and investment and doubling bilateral trade turnover in the near future.
He also encouraged Swiss businesses and investment funds to expand their presence in Vietnam in sectors such as finance and banking, manufacturing, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and innovation.
Describing finance as Switzerland’s foremost strength and a strategic development priority for Vietnam, Prime Minister Hưng invited Switzerland to share its expertise, support the development of an international financial centre in Vietnam, and help connect the centre with major global financial hubs. He further proposed closer cooperation in green finance, investment funds, asset management, crypto assets, carbon credits, international bonds and financial technology.
Expressing his pleasure at visiting Vietnam again, President Parmelin recalled that Switzerland was among the first countries to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam, adding that Vietnam’s image in Switzerland continues to grow increasingly positive. He said the two countries share many similarities, particularly their commitment to peace, cooperation and multilateralism.
President Parmelin stated that Switzerland attaches great importance to its relationship with Vietnam and seeks to promote substantive and effective cooperation. He noted that the large number of Swiss business leaders and scientists accompanying his delegation reflects strong interest in, and high expectations for, the potential of bilateral cooperation.
He welcomed the signing of VEFTA, saying the agreement will open vast opportunities to boost trade, investment and business connectivity between the two countries, especially for small and medium-sized enterprises.
