Vietnam-Belarus talks focus on expanding economic ties

Vietnam and Belarus have pledged to strengthen economic ties, particularly in trade, industry, and science-technology, during the 16th session of their Intergovernmental Committee. Vietnamese Trade Minister Nguyen Hong Dien and Belarusian Deputy Prime Minister Anatoly Sivak co-chaired the talks, reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation.

According to Vietnam News Agency (VNA), both sides reviewed progress in traditional sectors like agriculture, manufacturing, and education while exploring new opportunities in IT, healthcare, and green technology. Despite positive developments, they agreed to accelerate the implementation of the high-level agreements reached during the visit of Belarusian Prime Minister Roman Golovchenko to Vietnam in 2023, actively solving problems and exploring new trade solutions.

A key focus was enhancing market access for each other’s goods, including farm produce, seafood, machinery, and dairy products. The countries will also encourage business exchanges through trade fairs and better utilise their free trade agreement with the Eurasian Economic Union.

Cooperation in high-tech fields, such as Artificial Intelligence, semiconductors, and green industry – was highlighted as a priority, alongside foundational sectors like chemicals and mechanical engineering. Vietnam requested smoother conditions for its businesses, including diaspora entrepreneurs, to operate in Belarus. The meeting concluded with the signing of a new cooperation protocol, with the next session planned to be held in Belarus.

Photo: iStock