News from Berlin

10th Asia-Europe Meeting Sees Berlin-Vietnam Ties Strengthen

October 21st, 2014
20141021 Asia Europe Meeting.JPG

News from Berlin - Germany and Belgium have been considering Vietnam as their priority nation for Official Development Assistance (ODA) following the 10th Asia-Europe Meeting (the ASEM 10). The Deputy Foreign Minister of Vietnam, Bui Thanh Son, spoke positively on the outcomes of the meeting after Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung’s visited Germany and Belgium for discussions.

The ASEM 10 meeting took place on the 16th to the 17th of October in Milan, Italy. Cooperation and connectivity presented a major trend as well as peace, stability and status quo in different regions that are facing huge challenges during this complex time of international uncertainty. Political and economic instability, conflicts (local and international) and terrorism are becoming increasingly complex and widespread while global economic recovery is still slow moving and riddled with instability.

During the meeting, members shared assessments and presented proposals on strategies for Southeast Asia development. Member states highly appreciated practical suggestions to increase ASEM contributions to joint efforts in narrowing the development gap, enhancing Mekong sub-region connectivity, and new approaches and innovations on energy security and food-water resources.

The government leader’s official visits to these EU nations obtained good results and their was continued maintenance of the high-level meetings with key partners. Prime Minister Dung had talks with leaders from the EU and Germany, achieving common perceptions on important agreements to boost bilateral cooperation. Leaders from the EU and Germany confirmed that Vietnam holds a very important position in their policies and they are keen to continue a broader cooperation with the nation.

The EU vowed to ratify the Partnership and Cooperation Agreement (PCA) with Vietnam in 2015 and provide Vietnam with EUR400 million in aid. Germany and Belgium continued considering Vietnam as a priority country for ODA and wanted to work with the Southeast Asian nation on developing more cooperation projects. Germany promised to further step up action programs and jointly organise celebrations for the 40th anniversary of diplomatic ties. While Belgium pledged to boost bilateral cooperation with our nation in seaport, logistics, green growth, high technology, and development aid.

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