President Lương Cường Highlights Vietnam–Chile Cooperation in Speech at the University of Chile
Santiago, The Gulf Observer: On Tuesday, State President of Vietnam, Lương Cường, delivered a keynote address at the University of Chile as part of his official visit to Latin America. Speaking at the oldest and largest academic institution in Chile, founded in 1842 and known for its role in shaping regional leaders, President Cường outlined the foundation and future aspirations of the Vietnam–Chile partnership.
In his address, President Cường emphasized the historical ties and shared values between Vietnam and Chile, noting their common paths in struggles for independence, economic models centered on export-driven growth, and mutual dedication to global cooperation. He expressed Vietnam’s enduring gratitude for Chile’s solidarity during Vietnam’s fight for independence, underscored by the Chilean youth-led protests against the war in Vietnam.
The President highlighted that both countries, as members of major trade agreements such as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), prioritize sustainable growth, green development, and energy transition. He commended Chile’s economic success, noting Vietnam’s interest in learning from Chile’s experiences in overcoming the “middle-income trap.”
Discussing Vietnam’s development path, Cường reflected on Vietnam’s journey from a war-torn, embargoed nation to a middle-income country with a rapidly growing economy and significant global trade reach. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s foreign policy of independence, non-alignment in military alliances, and commitment to peaceful dispute resolution, emphasizing the importance of multilateralism and cooperation in an increasingly complex global environment.
President Cường outlined several proposals to elevate Vietnam–Chile relations, including strengthening political trust, leveraging the Vietnam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and CPTPP to boost trade and investment, and expanding cooperation in green transition, climate action, and education. He also called for enhanced cultural exchanges to deepen people-to-people ties, with the University of Chile positioned as a valuable partner for fostering educational and cultural cooperation.
Concluding his remarks, President Cường expressed optimism that the Vietnam–Chile partnership would continue to flourish, contributing to peace, prosperity, and sustainable development in both regions. Following his visit to Chile, President Cường will travel to Peru to participate in the 2024 APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in Lima, marking the next step in his official Latin American tour.
