Việt Nam and Chile Strengthen Bilateral Relations Through Joint Statement

President Lương Cường’s official visit to Chile resulted in a 14-point joint statement emphasizing the commitment to strengthen bilateral relations, commemorate the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties, and enhance cooperation across various sectors. Both leaders recognized the importance of the Việt Nam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and discussed high-level exchanges to promote sustainable development and regional cooperation.

On November 11, 2023, during President Lương Cường’s official visit to Chile, a comprehensive 14-point joint statement was released, emphasizing the enduring friendship between Việt Nam and Chile. The visit, marking the first by a Vietnamese President in 15 years, involved discussions on various bilateral and global issues. President Cường engaged with top officials including Senate President José Garcia Ruminot and Mayor Irací Hassler, and delivered a significant policy speech at the University of Chile. Both nations underscored their commitment to enhancing the bilateral comprehensive partnership established in 2007, which has fostered increased cooperation in multiple areas such as defense, security, agriculture, and trade. They recognized the significance of the Việt Nam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and vowed to maximize its impact. Acknowledging remarkable achievements in socio-economic realms on both sides, there was a mutual interest in expanding cooperation in diverse fields, while also facilitating market access for agricultural exports. Chilean President Gabriel Boric expressed admiration for Việt Nam’s ongoing socio-economic reforms, while President Cường praised Chile’s advancements. Additionally, both leaders committed to supporting multilateral cooperation frameworks and highlighted the importance of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as a legal framework for maritime governance. The successful outcomes of this visit are poised to create momentum for further strengthening the bilateral relationship. To this end, President Cường extended an invitation to President Boric to visit Việt Nam in 2025, which was enthusiastically accepted.

The joint statement issued during President Lương Cường’s visit to Chile marks a significant milestone in the diplomatic relations between Việt Nam and Chile, highlighting 55 years of friendship. The visit saw high-level discussions aimed at reinforcing bilateral ties and addressing shared global and regional challenges. Historically, the relationship has deepened since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971, following a noteworthy meeting between leaders Hồ Chí Minh and Salvador Allende. Economic and cultural exchanges have flourished recently, underscored by the Việt Nam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and collaborative frameworks aimed at mutual development. Given the broader geopolitical dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region, both nations are keen on exploring increased cooperation, knowing that collaboration can bring sustainable benefits that extend beyond their borders.

In conclusion, the recent visit of President Lương Cường to Chile embodies a renewed commitment to enhancing the bilateral partnership between Việt Nam and Chile. Through fundamental agreements and cooperative frameworks, both nations are working toward a sustainable, mutually beneficial future, emphasizing economic cooperation and adherence to international norms. This visit lays a robust foundation for deepened relations and ongoing dialogue, signaling a shared vision for peace and development in the region.

Original Source: vietnamnews.vn