Vietnam PM encourages stronger renewable energy cooperation with Portugal

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has suggested Vietnam and Portugal step up cooperation in renewable energy, encouraging Portuguese companies to take part in offshore wind, solar power and energy infrastructure projects in Vietnam.

He made the statement at a meeting on Friday in Hanoi with visiting Portuguese Minister of State and Foreign Affairs Paulo Rangel.

The cabinet leader said Portugal’s recent decision to open its embassy in Vietnam marks a historic milestone, underscoring its resolve to deepen bilateral ties and laying a favorable foundation for expanding cooperation across all sectors.

Vietnam attaches importance to and seeks to further strengthen and deepen its friendship and multifaceted cooperation with Portugal, an active member of the European Union (EU), he added.

Highlighting the complementary nature of the two economies, Chinh said the two sides should maximize their strengths to elevate economic, trade and investment ties into a key pillar of bilateral relations.

He also suggested early study and establishment of cooperation mechanisms to facilitate long-term and stable partnership opportunities.

The PM underscored significant potential in the maritime economy, urging the two sides to enhance cooperation in shipping, seaports, shipbuilding, and logistics in line with each country’s marine development strategy.

Chinh called for closer coordination to optimize free trade agreements between Vietnam and the EU and voiced support for efforts to encourage remaining EU member states to swiftly ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

He also emphasized greater experience sharing in digital transformation, innovation, health care, sports, and education-training, particularly in Portuguese language teaching.

Citing strong tourism potential, Chinh proposed facilitating travel between the two countries through reciprocal visa exemptions for their citizens.

In response, Rangel said he welcomes Vietnam’s upgrade of ties with the EU to a comprehensive strategic partnership (January 2026), saying the move would further strengthen cooperation with EU member states.

He stressed that Portugal regards Vietnam as one of its key partners in Southeast Asia and wishes to deepen multifaceted cooperation with the country.

The minister voiced strong agreement with the key orientations set out by Chinh, saying Portugal stands ready to coordinate in promoting high-level exchanges and strengthening business connectivity to soon achieve the bilateral trade target of $1 billion as agreed by the two countries’ high-ranking leaders, and to expedite the establishment of cooperation mechanisms between the two sides.

The minister highlighted strong potential for cooperation in renewable energy and the maritime economy, saying Portuguese companies possess experience and technology and are keen to participate in projects in Vietnam.

The two sides consented to maintain close coordination at multilateral forums and affirmed their support for multilateralism and respect for international law.