Burundi-Vietnam Relations: Strengthening Cooperation through Presidential Visit

Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye’s visit to Vietnam symbolizes strengthened ties, focusing on political, economic, and cultural cooperation. Vietnam and Burundi’s partnership has grown over fifty years, underpinned by shared histories and mutual support in international forums. Economic ties see growth through bilateral trade and Viettel’s successful investment in Burundi. Future prospects look promising in agriculture and infrastructure, bolstered by political commitment from both sides.

The official visit of Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye to Vietnam from April 3 to April 6 symbolizes a mutual commitment to enhance cooperation in diverse fields, including politics, economy, trade, culture, and society as noted by Vietnamese Ambassador Vu Thanh Huyen. This significant diplomatic engagement underscores the long-standing ties between the two nations.

Vietnam and Burundi share historical and cultural parallels, having both resisted colonialism and emerging with valuable lessons from these struggles. Burundian leaders have viewed Vietnam as a model for national liberation and development. Although diplomatic relations were formalized on April 16, 1975, neither nation maintains an embassy in the other’s capital, relying on their embassies in Tanzania and China for diplomatic matters.

Throughout the past five decades, Vietnam and Burundi have bolstered their relationship, marked by high-level exchanges such as meetings between Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Ndayishimiye. Additionally, Vietnam appointed Burundian businessman Juvenal Sakubu as Honorary Consul, emphasizing his role in promoting bilateral economic cooperation and protecting Vietnamese citizens in Burundi. Ambassador Huyen acknowledged Sakubu’s contributions in strengthening bilateral ties significantly.

Both countries have supported each other within UN forums and international organizations, with Burundi recently endorsing Vietnam’s candidacy for various positions, reflecting their collaborative spirit. They have also signed agreements on visa exemptions and cooperation in information and communications, further solidifying their partnership.

The economic and trade relationship is on an upward trajectory, with bilateral trade exceeding 2 million USD in 2024. Vietnam exports machinery and technology to Burundi, while importing minerals and agricultural products. A significant milestone is Viettel’s investment project in Burundi, which has established a leading telecommunications service, Lumitel, creating jobs and contributing substantially to the Burundian economy.

Ambassador Huyen highlighted President Ndayishimiye’s visit as a pivotal moment for future collaboration, particularly in agriculture and mining. The Burundian government is focused on diversifying its agricultural output and developing infrastructure, including energy projects. With the establishment of the African Continental Free Trade Area, Vietnam sees considerable growth potential in trade with African markets.

The enduring cooperation between Vietnam and Burundi is expected to expand across economic, trade, and investment sectors, supported by strong political will and rich resources. This partnership will play a crucial role in advancing each nation’s socio-economic development while fostering stability and prosperity across both regions.

In summary, the official visit by Burundian President Évariste Ndayishimiye to Vietnam marks a significant opportunity for enhancing bilateral cooperation. The relationship, rooted in shared historical contexts, has thrived through various diplomatic engagements and notable economic initiatives, particularly in telecommunications. The future presents promising avenues for collaboration in agriculture, mining, and infrastructure development, which will support the socio-economic goals of both nations and contribute to wider regional stability and growth.

Original Source: en.vietnamplus.vn