Vietnam and the UAE: A New Era of Comprehensive Partnership
In a significant diplomatic development, Vietnam and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have agreed to elevate their bilateral relations to a comprehensive partnership. This landmark decision was made during the official visit of Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to the UAE, which took place from October 28 to 30, 2024. The agreement marks a new chapter in the relationship between the two nations, reflecting their mutual commitment to enhancing cooperation across various sectors.
A Warm Welcome in Abu Dhabi
During his visit, PM Chinh was warmly received by UAE President Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan in Abu Dhabi. The two leaders engaged in fruitful discussions, emphasizing the importance of this visit in promoting a new phase of cooperation. President Al Nahyan praised Vietnam’s rich history and impressive socio-economic achievements, highlighting the potential for both nations to learn from each other. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s status as a key partner for the UAE in Asia, underscoring the strategic importance of their relationship.
Acknowledging Achievements and Shared Goals
PM Chinh expressed admiration for the UAE’s remarkable transformation into a leading economic, financial, and technological hub in the Middle East. He noted that the UAE’s development is a "miracle in the desert," showcasing the potential for growth and innovation in the region. The discussions between the two leaders also reflected on the robust development of their bilateral relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1993, characterized by increased political trust and economic cooperation.
Establishing a Comprehensive Partnership
The elevation of their ties to a comprehensive partnership is a historic milestone, making the UAE Vietnam’s first comprehensive partner in the Middle East. This decision is a testament to the determination of both countries to foster a more stable, substantive, and efficient relationship. To activate this new partnership, PM Chinh and President Al Nahyan identified six priority areas for cooperation:
- Economic Partnership: Establishing action plans within the framework of the Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
- Innovation and Transformation: Enhancing cooperation in innovation, green and digital transformation, and the circular economy.
- Trade and Investment: Strengthening economic, trade, and investment ties.
- Halal Industry Development: Jointly developing the Halal industry and opening markets for Vietnamese Halal products.
- Cultural and People-to-People Exchanges: Expanding collaborations in labor, culture, tourism, sports, and fostering people-to-people exchanges.
- Regional Cooperation: Supporting each other in regional and multilateral forums.
Expanding Investment Opportunities
Both leaders pledged to maximize efforts to expand investment cooperation in key sectors such as oil and gas, renewable energy, information technology, and agriculture. President Al Nahyan committed to coordinating with relevant agencies to achieve the goals set during PM Chinh’s visit. Specific projects were also discussed, including the establishment of a financial center in Ho Chi Minh City and the opening of a youth football academy in Vietnam.
Supporting the Vietnamese Community
PM Chinh emphasized the importance of supporting the Vietnamese community residing in the UAE, a request that President Al Nahyan readily affirmed. The UAE leader expressed his pleasure at the growing number of Vietnamese workers in the country and assured that local authorities would continue to facilitate their integration. Additionally, the establishment of a Vietnamese cultural center in the UAE was discussed as a means to strengthen cultural ties.
Regional Stability and International Law
During the talks, PM Chinh addressed the situation in the East Vietnam Sea, urging the UAE to support the stance shared by ASEAN and Vietnam regarding the importance of maintaining peace, security, and freedom of navigation. He stressed that disputes should be resolved peacefully and in accordance with international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
A Promising Future
As the visit concluded, PM Chinh conveyed an invitation from State President Luong Cuong for President Al Nahyan to visit Vietnam, which was gladly accepted. The two sides released a joint statement summarizing the key outcomes of the visit, including the establishment of the comprehensive partnership. A signing ceremony for the CEPA, Vietnam’s first free trade agreement with an Arab country, was also held, alongside six other cooperative agreements.
The UAE has emerged as Vietnam’s largest export market in the Middle East and Africa, with Vietnamese exports to the UAE reaching $3.37 billion in the first half of 2024, marking a 57% increase from the previous year. As of June 2024, the UAE had invested in 41 foreign direct investment projects in Vietnam, totaling $71.6 million.
Conclusion
The recent agreement between Vietnam and the UAE to elevate their bilateral relations to a comprehensive partnership signifies a promising future for both nations. With a shared vision for cooperation across various sectors, the two countries are poised to strengthen their ties and foster mutual growth. As they embark on this new journey together, the potential for collaboration and development is boundless, paving the way for a prosperous relationship that benefits both nations and their peoples.