Vietnam and Norway are enhancing their bilateral cooperation in several key areas as they approach 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026. During a meeting in Hanoi, Vietnamese Deputy Foreign Minister Le Thi Thu Hang and Norwegian State Secretary Astrid Bergmål reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic and diplomatic ties, focusing on trade, renewable energy, and maritime development.
A significant milestone in their discussions was the progress towards a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) member states. After 14 years of negotiations, the agreement is poised to boost market access, foster business partnerships, and provide investors with greater certainty. Deputy Minister Hang urged all parties to finalize ratification procedures to facilitate the agreement’s implementation.
The meeting also underscored the potential of the Green Strategic Partnership, signed in April, to aid sustainable development and the transition to cleaner energy. Vietnam is encouraging Norwegian businesses and financial institutions to invest more in renewable energy, maritime transport, shipbuilding, port infrastructure, logistics, and high-tech aquaculture. Norway, in turn, expressed interest in collaborating on marine management, sustainable aquaculture, green shipping, and advancing the circular economy.
Both countries are keen on sharing technology and expertise to achieve carbon neutrality and strengthen energy security. They also agreed to enhance regional cooperation through the ASEAN-Norway partnership from 2026 to 2030, focusing on the blue economy, energy transition, connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development.
Vietnam and Norway pledged to support each other in regional and international forums, including the United Nations, by coordinating their foreign ministries’ efforts. They emphasized the importance of free trade, adherence to international law, and the principles outlined in the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.
The discussions highlighted a mutual commitment between Vietnam and Norway to expanding economic opportunities and strengthening diplomatic relationships, all while advancing sustainable development goals.