Vietnam-UAE Relations: A Vision for Peace, Development, and Prosperity
On the morning of October 29, 2023, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh delivered a significant policy speech at the Anwar Gargash Diplomatic Academy in Abu Dhabi, marking a pivotal moment during his official visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The theme of his address, “Vietnam – UAE Comprehensive Partnership: Shared Vision for Peace, Development and Prosperity,” encapsulated the essence of the evolving relationship between the two nations.
Vietnam’s Resilient Rise
In his speech, Prime Minister Chinh reflected on Vietnam’s remarkable transformation over the past four decades. Emerging from the shadows of war and devastation, Vietnam has made significant strides towards becoming a middle-income developing country. The Prime Minister highlighted that Vietnam now maintains diplomatic relations with 194 countries, including Comprehensive Strategic Partnerships with eight nations and a Comprehensive Partnership with the UAE.
The Prime Minister’s assessment of Vietnam’s growth trajectory is impressive. With an average per capita income of approximately $4,300, Vietnam ranks among the 34 largest economies globally and is within the top 20 in terms of trade. Despite facing challenges in the global economy, Vietnam’s GDP is projected to grow by around 7% in 2024, with foreign investment expected to reach $39-40 billion. This resilience underscores Vietnam’s commitment to maintaining macroeconomic stability while fostering sustainable development.
A Call for Global Cooperation
In light of the complex and unpredictable global landscape, Prime Minister Chinh emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation among nations. He articulated Vietnam’s commitment to political and social stability, asserting that the country would not sacrifice social justice, environmental sustainability, or social security in pursuit of mere economic growth. This holistic approach to development reflects Vietnam’s dedication to creating a balanced and equitable society.
Vision for National Growth
Looking ahead, Prime Minister Chinh articulated a bold vision for Vietnam’s future. He referenced the aspirations of General Secretary To Lam, who has called for ushering in a new era of national growth. The Prime Minister outlined Vietnam’s strategic goals: to become a developing country with modern industry and high middle income by 2030, and to achieve developed country status with high income by 2045.
However, he cautioned that the path forward would be fraught with challenges. To navigate these complexities, the Prime Minister identified six key priorities, including promoting economic growth while ensuring macroeconomic stability, renewing traditional growth drivers, and accelerating industrialization and modernization. These priorities aim to create substantial changes and strategic breakthroughs that will propel Vietnam into a new era of development.
Strengthening Vietnam-UAE Ties
The UAE serves as the first stop on Prime Minister Chinh’s Middle Eastern tour, marking the first official visit by a Vietnamese Prime Minister to the region in 15 years. During his address, he acknowledged the significance of the newly established Comprehensive Partnership between Vietnam and the UAE, which includes a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA). This agreement is poised to enhance economic, trade, and investment cooperation, positioning these sectors as vital pillars of bilateral relations.
The Prime Minister expressed admiration for the UAE’s rapid development, particularly the transformation of Abu Dhabi into what he described as a "miracle in the desert." He emphasized the need for both nations to collaborate closely, sharing aspirations and supporting each other in achieving their respective development goals.
Six Major Priorities for Cooperation
To realize the potential of the Comprehensive Partnership, Prime Minister Chinh proposed six major areas of cooperation:
- Economic, Trade, and Investment Cooperation: Strengthening these sectors as the foundation of bilateral relations.
- Implementation of CEPA: Ensuring effective execution of the recently signed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
- Encouraging Investment: Attracting UAE investment funds and businesses to engage in large-scale, transformative projects in Vietnam.
- Cultural Exchange: Promoting mutual understanding and cultural ties between the two nations.
- Sustainable Development: Collaborating on initiatives that prioritize environmental protection and social equity.
- Regional Stability: Working together to enhance peace and stability in both regions.
Conclusion: A Shared Future
In concluding his speech, Prime Minister Chinh reaffirmed the potential of the Middle East, particularly the UAE, as a region of great promise. He emphasized that despite geographical distances, Vietnam and the UAE are increasingly aligned in their visions and development orientations.
“Together, Vietnam and the UAE will write a new, more brilliant chapter in bilateral relations, for the practical interests of our peoples and for peace, stability, cooperation, and development in our regions and the world,” he stated.
As Prime Minister Chinh and his delegation concluded their activities in Abu Dhabi and prepared for their next visit to Saudi Arabia, the message was clear: Vietnam is poised to embrace a future of growth and collaboration, not just within its borders but on the global stage as well.
This visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties with the UAE and reflects Vietnam’s commitment to fostering international partnerships that promote mutual prosperity and peace.