The outcomes of Swiss President Guy Parmelin and his spouse’s official visit to Vietnam helped deepen bilateral relations and reaffirmed the two countries’ shared commitment to international affairs, Deputy Foreign Minister Lê Thị Thu Hằng said.
The visit coincided with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the Comprehensive Partnership implemented since January 2025, and the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association.
Switzerland was among the first Western European countries to recognise Vietnam and establish diplomatic relations. Vietnam values Swiss support in development, education and research, and assistance during disasters and pandemics.
The visit set strategic directions for a new chapter in the Partnership. Switzerland’s strengths in research, innovation, finance, education and training can be linked more closely to Vietnam’s needs.
President Parmelin held talks with President Tô Lâm and met Prime Minister Lê Minh Hưng and National Assembly President Trần Thanh Mẫn. The sides reaffirmed the importance of friendship and cooperation.
They agreed to develop political relations, trade and investment, and expand cooperation in science, technology, innovation, finance, training and sustainable tourism.
A major outcome was the Vietnam–EFTA Free Trade Agreement. Bilateral trade exceeded US$1 billion in 2025, and the countries aim to double it and attract more Swiss investment.
The countries should explore joint research involving the State, universities and businesses in biomedicine, green energy, the digital economy and agriculture. Hằng said the visit would support stable bilateral relations.
Sources: Viet Nam News
