In an open and trustful atmosphere, both sides spoke highly of recent developments in bilateral relations. They exchanged in-depth views on major orientations to consolidate political trust, sustain positive growth momentum, tap cooperation potential, and inject fresh impetus to deepen bilateral ties in a practical and effective manner.

Praising Germany's socio-economic achievements, foreign policy, and active role within the European Union (EU), PM Hung affirmed that Vietnam attaches great importance to its Strategic Partnership with Germany.

The Vietnamese leader proposed that both sides continue expanding comprehensive cooperation, concrete action, and delegation exchanges, particularly at high levels and across all channels. He called for effectively utilizing existing cooperation mechanisms to build a favorable foundation for expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.

On economic, trade, and investment cooperation, PM Hung highlighted Germany as Vietnam's leading trade partner and key investor within the EU. He suggested that both sides make new breakthroughs commensurate with the potential and stature of bilateral relations, aiming to soon raise bilateral trade to US$20 billion.

He affirmed that the Vietnamese Government always creates favorable conditions for foreign investors, including German businesses, encouraging them to expand investments in areas of strength such as mechanical engineering, the automotive industry, healthcare, and energy transition. He also called for strengthening connections between the financial and stock markets of both countries, inviting international financial institutions and investors to participate in Vietnam’s International Financial Center.

Appreciating Germany’s completion of EVIPA ratification, PM Hung emphasized that this is an important step toward facilitating two-way investment. He asked Germany continue to urge remaining EU member states to complete ratification, while supporting the European Commission's early removal of the "yellow card" warning on Vietnamese seafood.

On defence, security, labor, and human resource development, the Vietnamese Government chief suggested expanding cooperation in United Nations peacekeeping operations, promoting the German-standard dual vocational training model in Vietnam, and expanding scholarship programs for Vietnamese students and researchers in Germany.

For his part, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz noted that Vietnam-Germany relations are progressing very well with strong foundations and potential to reach new heights.

Highlighting the highly complementary nature of the two economies, the German Chancellor expressed a desire to increase the presence of German enterprises in Vietnam through effective, large-scale projects, while bolstering trade, investment, energy cooperation, and participation in Vietnam's strategic transport infrastructure projects.

Chancellor Merz agreed to step up cooperation in transport, logistics, air connectivity, green transition, and climate change response through the effective implementation of the Vietnam-Germany Energy Partnership. He supported making science, technology, and innovation a major pillar of bilateral ties by promoting joint research projects and expanding expert and engineer training in strategic technologies.

Prime Minister Le Minh Hung also asked Germany to simplify visa procedures for Vietnamese citizens and create favorable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Germany to integrate further and serve as a bridge of friendship. Both leaders consented to meet in person soon and accepted mutual invitations for official visits in the time ahead.

Vietnam-Germany cooperation strengthened in educational publishing

The Vietnam Education Publishing House (VEPH) is stepping up cooperation with Germany in educational publishing, with a focus on digital transformation, e-publications and digital learning materials.

Germany, Vietnam expand investment links and high-tech cooperation

VOV.VN - The Da Nang High-Tech Park and Industrial Zones Authority (DSEZA), in coordination with the Vietnamese Embassy in Germany, held an investment networking event in Berlin on July 6 to introduce Da Nang's investment environment, strengthen business connectivity and bilateral economic cooperation between Vietnam and Germany.