In an effort to address workforce shortages and bolster economic growth, Greece is looking to enhance labor cooperation with Vietnam and other ASEAN nations. This initiative was highlighted by Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum Athanasios Plevris during a meeting in Athens with delegates from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Plevris underscored the significance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements to protect the rights of workers and employers while aiding Greece in its mission to curb irregular migration.
The Greek minister’s remarks come as migration management takes on greater significance in the wake of the European Union’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum. Plevris stressed that these agreements are crucial for maintaining orderly migration flows and integrating foreign workers into Greece’s labor market effectively.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương shared her optimism about the progress in labor cooperation discussions since previous negotiations with the Greek minister. She expressed hope that Vietnam and Greece would soon finalize a bilateral labor agreement, which she believes would expand employment opportunities for Vietnamese workers and strengthen the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
In response to the ambassador’s remarks, Plevris showed support for the proposal and instructed relevant authorities to continue negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. The goal is to expedite the signing of labor cooperation agreements, which are seen as pivotal for both Greece’s economic objectives and the rights of foreign workers.
The Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum reports that approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers currently have valid residence permits in Greece, highlighting the existing ties between the two nations. As Greece moves forward with these labor cooperation initiatives, it aims to create a more structured and mutually beneficial framework for foreign workers within its borders.