Vietnamese President and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam has embarked on official visits to the European Union and Belgium, arriving in Brussels on Wednesday. These visits, made at the invitation of European Council President António Costa and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, aim to bolster diplomatic relations and deepen economic cooperation between Vietnam and its European partners.
The visits come as part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to enhance international relations, particularly with European nations. Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1990, Vietnam and the EU have expanded their cooperation across various sectors, including trade, economic development, security, and sustainable growth. The relationship was elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in January 2026, offering new opportunities for collaboration in energy, green transition, innovation, and regional security.
Vietnam’s diplomatic relationship with Belgium dates back even further, to 1973. Over the years, the two countries have worked closely in areas such as trade, agriculture, education, science and technology, and development programs. They also collaborate on international issues through multilateral platforms, including the United Nations and ASEAN-EU frameworks.
The current visits by President To Lam are expected to reinforce political ties and translate existing agreements into practical initiatives, reflecting Vietnam’s commitment to expanding its engagement with European partners. The outcome of these visits is anticipated to lead to stronger economic partnerships and enhanced diplomatic cooperation.