The top legislator highlighted the recent progress in the bilateral relationship, especially the joint declaration on the occasion of the 10th founding anniversary of the strategic partnership (2010 - 2020) with a vision towards elevating the relationship in the next decade.
Frew thanked the Chairman for his efforts in enhancing the Vietnam - UK cooperation, particularly the legislature’s ratification of the UK - Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (UKVFTA).
He shared Chairman Hue’s view that activities held in 2023 to celebrate the 50th founding anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic ties have contributed to increasing strategic trust between the two sides.
The ambassador stressed that the strategic partnership covers a range of areas, from politics and diplomacy to economy, trade, investment, sustainable development, national defence and security, and health care, adding the UKVFTA has benefited both nations, as reflected through the increasing bilateral trade despite global trade turmoil last year.
Congratulating the UK on its joining the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) last year, Chairman Hue affirmed that Vietnam had supported the country to become a member of the deal.
Along with the UKVFTA, the UK’s CPTPP membership is expected to create new momentum for the Vietnam - UK relations, consolidate their cooperation framework in trade and economy, and help their businesses diversify the markets and participate in the global supply chain more deeply, he said.
The Chairman used this occasion to call on British firms to increase investment in Vietnam, affirming that the NA and the government of Vietnam always make efforts to improve the business environment for foreign investors, including those from the UK.
Highly valuing the UK’s potential and capacity in the financial and monetary markets, the NA leader expressed his hope for stronger cooperation in this field, including the building of an international financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam wants to work with the UK to address global issues, including digital transformation and just energy transition, he said.
Chairman Hue asked the ambassador to convey his invitations to the Speaker of the House of Commons and the Lord Speaker to soon pay official visits to Vietnam.
Frew emphasised that the UK wants to boost cooperation with Vietnam via the Party and parliament channels, including exchanges and cooperation between young parliamentarians./.
