Vice President’s Visit to Norway Aims to Bolster Ties: Ambassador
Hanoi – Vietnamese Ambassador Dinh Nho Hung expressed optimism that Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan’s upcoming visit to Norway will inject new impetus into the bilateral relationship. The envoy emphasized that the bond between Vietnam and Norway is flourishing, evident in the increased levels of collaboration across various fields.
The International Partners Group (IPG), comprising Vietnam and Norway, has recently adopted a political declaration on the establishment of the Just Energy Transition Partnership (JETP). Delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, including the deputy ministerial-level Political Consultation slated for March 2023, have been rescheduled, he revealed.
In addition, negotiations for several agreements are underway, the envoy added. Notably, the visa exemption policy for Norwegian citizens visiting Vietnam has been expanded, with the temporary stay lengthened from 15 to 45 days.
Ambassador Hung underscored the significance of Norway as an essential partner to Vietnam, exemplified by the European nation’s active backing in achieving the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) and the ongoing pursuit of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
He stressed that Norway has provided Vietnam with approximately $320 million in aid, while numerous Norwegian enterprises have successfully operated within Vietnamese territory. Tourism activities between the two nations have also thrived.
Furthermore, the ambassador highlighted the increasing interest exhibited by businesses from both sides to collaborate. As such, there are ample opportunities for bilateral partnerships in green economy, circular economy, sustainable development, renewable energy, and the marine economy. These potential collaborations are expected to align with global trends in the coming decades and contribute to the growth of both nations.
Ambassador Hung outlined three foundations that foster an optimistic outlook for the Vietnam-Norway relationship in the future. Firstly, despite global turbulence, Vietnam has maintained stability and actively contributed to regional and global peace and development efforts. Secondly, with its expertise in technology solutions, finance, and experience, Norway stands at the forefront of green industries, rendering effective assistance to developing countries in SDG implementation and climate change response. Finally, amidst the rapid pace of global change, countries of all sizes are compelled to enhance cooperation.
Regarding the significance of Vice President Xuan’s visit, invitation courtesy of Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre, Ambassador Hung described it as a hallmark moment for Vietnam-Norway ties.
This visit, the first by a Vietnamese Vice President to Norway, is set to invigorate bilateral relations and enhance the efficiency of cooperation, in line with Vietnam’s external policy of independence, self-reliance, cooperation, development, multilateralism, diversification, and active integration. It will solidify Vietnam’s reputation as a reliable, friendly, positive, and responsible global partner, he asserted.
The ambassador expects Vice President Xuan’s activities during the visit to extend cooperation opportunities in trade, investment, education, science, technology, and culture. These efforts aim to mobilize resources for national development, while aligning with important development strategies, plans, and programs of both countries, in addition to advancing SDG implementation and commitments made at the UN Climate Change Conference.
The discussions will specifically focus on sustainable and green development, as well as solutions to support circular economy development, marine economy, green agriculture, sustainable aquatic farming, and plastic waste management.
Ambassador Hung also highlighted that the two sides will explore ways to accelerate negotiations on a free trade agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), which includes Norway, Switzerland, Iceland, and Liechtenstein. Collectively, these nations possess a GDP of $1.2 trillion.
The article can conclude with Ambassador Hung stating, Vice President Xuan’s visit plays a vital role in strengthening the Vietnam-Norway relationship. It will foster closer cooperation, fully tapping into our partnership potential, and contribute to the realization of national development goals.
