EU's Josep Borrell to Strengthen Ties with Vietnam Amid Security and Trade Talks

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell will visit Vietnam to discuss enhancing cooperation in security and sustainable development. The visit underscores Vietnam's pivotal role as an industrial hub and EU trading partner. Areas of focus will include the Free Trade Agreement and energy transition partnerships, with human rights issues also on the agenda.

European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell is set to visit Vietnam next week to discuss bolstering cooperation with the Southeast Asian nation in areas including security and sustainable development, EU ambassador in Hanoi Julien Guerrier stated.

Vietnam has become a critical trading partner for the EU, especially as global supply chains shift due to U.S.-China tensions. During his July 29-31 visit, Borrell aims to fortify EU-Vietnam relations focusing on sustainable development and security, according to Guerrier.

The existing EU-Vietnam free trade agreement, effective since 2020, has propelled Vietnam to the top of the EU's trading partners in Southeast Asia. European investments in Vietnam are notable, with major companies like Bosch, Lego, Sanofi, and Piaggio setting up operations. Adidas also sources extensively from the country.

Vietnam's Just Energy Transition Partnership with Western and G7 nations further highlights its strategic importance, allowing it to receive substantial EU funds to pivot from coal to renewable energy. Nonetheless, human rights and foreign policy differences persist, particularly concerning Vietnam's stance on Russia's actions in Ukraine.

Vietnam's recent postponement of a visit by EU sanctions envoy David O'Sullivan, perceived as a concession to Russia, drew criticism from the EU. Borrell's visit aims to address such 'irritants,' with O'Sullivan's rescheduled for September.

Borrell's Vietnam stop follows his attendance at an ASEAN foreign ministers' meeting in Laos. The timing is significant, given recent high-profile state visits to Hanoi from global leaders and the long gap since an EU Commission President last visited in 2014.

(With inputs from agencies.)