Vietnam NA Chairman’s Europe–Türkiye Diplomatic Tour Yields Strong Gains in Parliamentary and Strategic Cooperation
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: National Assembly (NA) Chairman Trần Thanh Mẫn has concluded a highly successful working trip encompassing participation in the 152nd Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU-152) in Istanbul, bilateral engagements in Türkiye, and an official visit to the Italy from April 11 to 17, marking a significant milestone in Việtnam’s parliamentary diplomacy and international outreach.
The visit, the first overseas mission by the NA Chairman following the Communist Party of Vietnam’s 14th National Congress and the formation of the 16th National Assembly, reflected the timely implementation of Việtnam’s foreign policy while reinforcing the country’s growing global stature and diplomatic vision.
Active and Responsible Role at IPU-152
At IPU-152, themed “Nurturing hope, securing peace and ensuring justice for future generations,” the Vietnamese delegation played a proactive and constructive role. Chairman Mẫn delivered a keynote address emphasizing strengthened international cooperation, respect for international law, and the importance of solidarity in addressing global challenges.
He underscored the critical role of parliaments in promoting peace, sustainable development, climate action, and non-proliferation, while advocating enhanced parliamentary diplomacy, dialogue, and trust-building among nations.
The delegation also actively participated in key forums, including the Governing Council, Standing Committees, and parliamentary networks, contributing to policy discussions and drafting of Assembly documents. Việt Nam’s initiatives received broad recognition from member states, further consolidating its reputation as a responsible and forward-looking partner in multilateral cooperation.
IPU Secretary General Martin Chungong commended Việt Nam’s high-level participation and meaningful contributions, noting its increasing influence in global inter-parliamentary platforms.
Strengthening Việt Nam–Türkiye Relations
On the sidelines of the Assembly, Chairman Mẫn held high-level meetings with Turkish leaders, including President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, reaffirming the growing momentum in bilateral relations.
Both sides highlighted nearly five decades of diplomatic ties and agreed to elevate cooperation to new strategic heights. Economic, trade, and investment collaboration were identified as key pillars, with a shared target of boosting bilateral trade to $4 billion.
Discussions also explored the possibility of initiating negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement, alongside expanding cooperation in infrastructure, logistics, industry, and tourism. Parliamentary ties are set to deepen through increased exchanges and legislative collaboration.
Advancing Strategic Partnership with Italy
During his official visit to Italy, Chairman Mẫn held talks with President Sergio Mattarella and Chamber of Deputies President Lorenzo Fontana, focusing on expanding cooperation beyond traditional sectors.
Both sides emphasized leveraging the European Union–Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) to enhance economic connectivity and supported early ratification of the EU–Việt Nam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).
The leaders identified new areas of collaboration, including digital economy, green growth, energy, and innovation, while reaffirming commitments to strengthening legislative cooperation and political trust.
Chairman Mẫn also met with representatives of the Vatican, highlighting progress in Việt Nam–Holy See relations and expressing mutual interest in advancing toward full diplomatic ties.
Expanding Economic Cooperation
Economic engagement formed a key component of the visit, particularly in Milan, where Chairman Mẫn addressed a policy dialogue promoting Việt Nam–Italy cooperation. He stressed the importance of translating political goodwill into concrete economic outcomes, especially in the context of global digital transformation and green transition.
Italian officials, including Lombardy Undersecretary Raffaele Cattaneo, recognized Việt Nam as a dynamic and promising economy, with increasing interest from Italian businesses in investment opportunities.
A Milestone in Parliamentary Diplomacy
The multi-country trip achieved comprehensive outcomes at both bilateral and multilateral levels, reinforcing Việt Nam’s image as an active and responsible participant in global governance.
It also generated fresh momentum in relations with key partners across Europe and the Middle East, contributing to a favorable international environment for Việt Nam’s development goals and enhancing its role in promoting peace, cooperation, and sustainable growth in the new era.
