Vietnam, Switzerland Seek to Deepen Legislative Cooperation in Finance, Technology and Global Issues

Geneva, The Gulf Observer: Chairman of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) Trần Thanh Mẫn has called for enhanced legislative cooperation between Vietnam and Switzerland, with a focus on modern legal frameworks covering finance, banking, digital banking, international financial centres, blockchain, digital assets, and fintech.

The proposal was made during Chairman Mẫn’s meeting with Maja Riniker, President of the Swiss National Council, on Tuesday in Geneva, where he is attending the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament.

Chairman Mẫn expressed satisfaction with the recent progress in Vietnam–Switzerland ties, particularly following the upgrade of bilateral relations to a Comprehensive Partnership during Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính’s official visit to Switzerland in January.

He extended gratitude to Switzerland for its timely support to Việt Nam in the fight against the COVID-19 pandemic and assistance following Typhoon Yagi in 2023.

To further enhance the comprehensive partnership, Chairman Mẫn proposed increasing the exchange of delegations at all levels and strengthening cooperation between specialised committees, friendship parliamentary groups, and forums for young and female parliamentarians.

He also invited President Riniker to visit Vietnam next year to commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations.

In terms of economic collaboration, the Vietnamese legislative leader urged prompt negotiations and signing of the Vietnam–Switzerland Investment Protection Agreement and a bilateral tax treaty. He also called for the resumption of talks on the Vietnam–European Free Trade Association (EFTA) Free Trade Agreement, which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

Chairman Mẫn further suggested closer coordination at multilateral parliamentary forums, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) and the Francophone Parliamentary Assembly.

President Riniker expressed appreciation for the Vietnamese NA’s hospitality during her 2023 visit to Hanoi, calling it a key milestone in parliamentary diplomacy. She praised Vietnam’s growing international standing and welcomed efforts to accelerate the Vietnam–EFTA free trade deal.

Highlighting the importance of consistent inter-parliamentary dialogue, she noted that continued meetings between the two legislatures would play a crucial role in advancing bilateral relations.

Riniker also welcomed Chairman Mẫn’s presence at the 6th World Conference of Speakers of Parliament, describing the gathering as a rare opportunity for global parliaments to engage in democratic dialogue and collectively address international challenges.

Later the same day, Chairman Mẫn held talks with Andrea Caroni, President of the Swiss Council of States. He underscored Vietnam’s appreciation of Switzerland’s active role in the IPU and reiterated the importance of the union in helping Vietnam’s legislature strengthen its legal and institutional capacity.

Chairman Mẫn noted that strong legal systems are essential for national development and societal well-being. He emphasised that the Vietnamese NA remains committed to improving its legislative frameworks in line with global standards, including learning from partners such as Switzerland.

Also on Tuesday, the Vietnamese NA Chairman held bilateral discussions with Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly of the Kingdom of Cambodia.