Vietnam and RoK Leaders Strengthen Bilateral Relations During APEC Meeting

During the APEC Leaders’ Week in Lima, Peru, State President Luong Cuong of Vietnam met with RoK President Yoon Suk Yeol, where they celebrated the robust Vietnam-RoK relationship, reaffirmed ambitions for enhanced economic cooperation, and discussed regional security matters in the East Sea. They pledged to collaborate on strategic projects while mutually addressing key international issues.

On November 16, 2024, Vietnam’s State President Luong Cuong convened a meeting with Republic of Korea (RoK) President Yoon Suk Yeol during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week held in Lima, Peru. The leaders expressed satisfaction with the strengthening of Vietnam-RoK ties, highlighted by the recent establishment of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. President Cuong emphasized Vietnam’s commitment to its partnership with the RoK, noting substantial collaboration across various sectors such as politics, economy, trade, culture, and exchanges among peoples. President Yoon congratulated President Cuong on his new position and reaffirmed Vietnam’s status as a pivotal partner within the RoK’s ASEAN collaboration and Indo-Pacific strategies. Both leaders agreed to enhance cooperative measures through regular exchanges and discussions on domestic and international developments. They set ambitious goals for economic collaboration, targeting a bilateral trade volume of $100 billion in the short term, with aspirations to reach $150 billion by 2030. In addition, the RoK pledged to assist Vietnam in critical areas such as the development of high-quality human resources, establishment of research and development centers, and integration of Vietnamese businesses into global supply chains. The RoK will also provide Official Development Assistance (ODA) to support strategic infrastructure, climate resilience, and energy transformation projects in Vietnam. On regional matters, the leaders discussed the importance of maintaining peace and security in the East Sea, emphasizing peaceful dispute resolution in line with international law, specifically the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). President Cuong extended an invitation for President Yoon to visit Vietnam, expressing gratitude for the invitation to the RoK, suggesting both nations coordinate through diplomatic channels to finalize these visits.

The meeting between the leaders of Vietnam and the Republic of Korea represents an important diplomatic engagement during the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week. The discussions reflect the ongoing commitment both nations have towards enhancing their strategic partnership, which has evolved significantly over the years. The focus on trade, investment, and regional stability underpins the growing economic ties and mutual interests in addressing regional challenges, particularly in the context of the East Sea. With both countries looking to deepen collaboration in various sectors, this meeting serves as a foundation for strengthening future bilateral relations.

The meeting between State President Luong Cuong and President Yoon Suk Yeol marked a significant step in fortifying the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and the RoK. Both leaders are committed to expanding economic cooperation and addressing regional security issues through constructive dialogue. The discussions paved the way for greater collaboration in essential areas, indicating a promising future for the bilateral relationship.

Original Source: en.vietnamplus.vn