EU Seeks to Strengthen Diplomatic Ties with Vietnam

EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell aims to upgrade diplomatic ties with Vietnam. Discussions with Vietnam's Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son covered South China Sea issues, Ukraine, and funding for energy transition. The EU also supports Vietnam in enhancing maritime and cybersecurity capabilities.

The European Union's foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, expressed a keen interest on Tuesday in advancing diplomatic relations with Vietnam. The EU is looking to assist Vietnam in bolstering its maritime security and cybersecurity infrastructure.

During a meeting in Hanoi, Borrell and Vietnam's Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son addressed South China Sea disputes, the situation in Ukraine, and financial support for Vietnam's energy transition. 'I would like my visit to be the moment to launch the process to upgrade our relations,' Borrell stated post-meeting.

Borrell emphasized EU's stance on respecting international law in both the South China Sea and Ukraine, noting concerns about Vietnam's perceived alignment with Russia regarding Ukraine. He also encouraged Vietnam to expedite the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) to curb coal consumption in the industrially vital nation. Vietnam's Foreign Minister Son sought EU's financial support for JETP and welcomed a more active EU role in the Indo-Pacific region.

(With inputs from agencies.)