As Vietnam and Norway celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations, the two nations are taking significant steps to bolster their cooperation in key sectors such as trade, renewable energy, and maritime development. During a meeting in Hanoi on Friday, Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang and Norwegian State Secretary Astrid Bergmål discussed a range of initiatives aimed at deepening economic and diplomatic ties between the countries.
A pivotal development from the meeting was the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states. After 14 years of negotiation, both parties expressed enthusiasm for the agreement, which promises to enhance market access, foster business partnerships, and provide greater certainty for investors. Hang emphasized the importance of completing ratification procedures to pave the way for implementation.
In addition, the two countries are focusing on their recently established Green Strategic Partnership, which aims to support sustainable development and the transition to cleaner energy. Vietnam encouraged Norwegian investment in sectors such as renewable energy, maritime transport, shipbuilding, and high-tech aquaculture. Norway, in turn, expressed a keen interest in expanding collaboration in areas like marine management, green shipping, and the circular economy.
The discussions also highlighted a commitment to regional cooperation, particularly within the ASEAN-Norway partnership for 2026–2030. Key areas of focus include the blue economy, energy transition, connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development. Both nations pledged to work more closely within this framework and to support each other in international forums, including the United Nations.
With a shared emphasis on free trade and adherence to international laws such as the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, Vietnam and Norway are poised to strengthen their political dialogue and economic opportunities. The meeting underscored their collective commitment to advancing sustainable development and enhancing bilateral cooperation in pivotal global sectors.