Vietnam, South Korea Bolster Strategic Partnership

Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm held phone talks on Tuesday with President of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Yoon Suk Yeol, discussing measures to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations.

During the conversation, President Yoon expressed the RoK’s deep appreciation for Vietnam’s pivotal role in its regional policy framework. He conveyed heartfelt condolences for the recent passing of Party General Secretary Nguyễn Phú Trọng, expressing confidence that under the steadfast leadership of its Party and State, Vietnam will continue to achieve significant milestones and enhance its global standing.

President Tô Lâm extended his congratulations to the RoK for its recent achievements, particularly in the domains of economic recovery and the fortification of supply chains. He praised the strong and enduring bilateral ties that have been cultivated over 32 years, noting the rapid progress across multiple sectors following the upgrade of their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2022.

Both leaders underscored the importance of deepening mutual understanding and political trust through regular exchanges at all levels. They agreed to bolster cooperation in national defense and security, reflecting their shared commitment to maintaining regional stability.

Economic and trade cooperation was identified as a critical area for further enhancement, with both leaders expressing a shared vision of increasing bilateral trade turnover to $150 billion by 2030. President Yoon affirmed the RoK’s intention to expand imports of Vietnamese agricultural products, a move expected to contribute to more balanced and sustainable trade relations.

The discussion also highlighted the need for greater collaboration in labor, culture, tourism, and education, alongside increased cooperation on international and regional issues.

President Tô Lâm reiterated Vietnam’s dedication to contributing positively to the peace process on the Korean Peninsula. The two leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the East Sea (South China Sea), emphasizing the importance of respecting international laws, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

This exchange marks another significant step in the ongoing efforts to enhance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and the Republic of Korea, reflecting a shared commitment to peace, stability, and prosperity in the region.