Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son (R) welcomes his visiting Australian counterpart Penny Wong__Photo: VNA

Both ministers expressed satisfaction with the robust and steady development of bilateral relations. Political ties have been strengthened, fostering increased mutual trust. Security and defense cooperation has become more effective, particularly in United Nations peacekeeping efforts. In 2022, two-way trade reached nearly 16 billion USD, positioning Vietnam as Australia's 10th largest trade partner and Australia as Vietnam's seventh largest. New areas of collaboration, such as climate change response and energy transition, are being promoted, including a support package of 105 million AUD (approximately 67.6 million USD) from Australia. 

Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son and his visiting Australian counterpart Penny Wong on August 22 co-chaired the fifth Vietnam-Australia Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Hanoi.

The two ministers focused discussions on the implementation of the Vietnam-Australia strategic partnership, as well as regional and international issues of mutual concern, and cooperation contents between their ministries.

While the official summaries of the meeting did not specifically highlight labor issues, the strong economic ties and mutual interest in sectors like education and development assistance suggest that labor-related topics are integral to the broader partnership. Australia is a leading education destination for Vietnamese students, with more than 33,500 Vietnamese students studying in Australia in 2024 and over 100,000 Vietnamese alumni of Australian institutions. This educational exchange fosters a skilled workforce benefiting both nations. 

They expressed their delight at the strong and steady development of the relations between the two countries. Political ties are consolidated with increasing trust, and security and defense cooperation is more effective, especially in the field of United Nations peacekeeping.

Two-way trade hit nearly USD 16 billion last year, helping Vietnam become Australia’s 10th biggest trade partner, and Australia Vietnam’s seventh largest trader. New areas of cooperation such as climate change response and energy transition are being promoted, including a support package of AUD 105 million (USD 67.6 million) for Vietnam to build infrastructure to respond to climate change and develop clean energy.

The two FMs highly valued their ministries’ close coordination and cooperation, especially in serving high-level contacts and delegation exchanges, and agreed to maintain coordination in holding activities in celebration of the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties this year.

Exchanging views on regional and international situations, they agreed to strengthen cooperation and continue contributions to maintaining peace, stability and cooperation in the region.

Wong affirmed that Australia values cooperation and supports the central role of ASEAN, and agrees to continue promoting collaboration for the sustainable development of the Mekong sub-region.

Regarding the East Sea issue, the two officials affirmed the importance of maintaining peace, stability, safety and freedom of navigation and aviation; and respecting international law, including the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). They vowed to continue backing each country's candidates at regional and international organizations and forums, especially at the UN.-(VNA/VLLF).

Expanding Areas of Cooperation

The dialogue extended beyond traditional sectors, delving into emerging areas of mutual interest. Climate change response and energy transition emerged as pivotal points of discussion. Australia announced a substantial support package of AUD 105 million (approximately USD 67.6 million) to aid Vietnam in developing infrastructure aimed at combating climate change and promoting clean energy initiatives. This investment signifies a joint effort to address environmental challenges and transition towards sustainable energy solutions.

Education and cultural exchanges were also highlighted as vital components of the bilateral relationship. Both nations acknowledged the importance of fostering people-to-people connections and enhancing educational ties to build a foundation for long-term cooperation and understanding.

High-Level Engagements

In conjunction with the Foreign Ministers' Meeting, Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong met with Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. The Prime Minister lauded the dynamic growth of Vietnam-Australia relations, emphasizing the deepening political trust and flourishing collaborations across various sectors, including economy, education, culture, and labor.

Prime Minister Chinh urged both foreign ministries to coordinate closely with relevant agencies to effectively implement existing agreements and develop concrete projects. He emphasized the need to prepare meticulously for upcoming high-level visits, which are expected to further solidify the partnership.

Minister Wong reaffirmed Australia's commitment to elevating the strategic partnership. She proposed enhancing cooperation in key areas such as politics, security, economy, science, and innovation. Additionally, she announced a new aid package exceeding AUD 94 million (approximately USD 60.3 million) dedicated to climate change adaptation in Vietnam's Mekong Delta from 2023 to 2034. This initiative aims to support sustainable development and bolster resilience against environmental challenges in the region.

Regional and International Collaboration

The ministers engaged in comprehensive discussions on regional and international issues of mutual concern. They concurred on the necessity of strengthening cooperation to maintain peace, stability, and collaboration within the region. Minister Wong emphasized Australia's respect for ASEAN centrality and expressed a commitment to continued support for the sustainable development of the Mekong sub-region.

Regarding the East Sea (South China Sea) issue, both officials underscored the importance of upholding peace, stability, and freedom of navigation and overflight. They advocated for adherence to international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), as a framework for resolving disputes and ensuring regional stability.

Cultural Diplomacy and Public Engagement

Beyond formal meetings, Minister Wong engaged in cultural diplomacy, reflecting the warm relations between the two countries. She took a morning stroll around Hanoi's iconic Hoan Kiem Lake and experienced the city's renowned egg coffee, immersing herself in the local culture. This gesture was well-received by the Vietnamese public and showcased the minister's appreciation for Vietnam's rich heritage.

Minister Wong highlighted the significance of people-to-people connections, noting that the friendship between citizens forms the bedrock of bilateral relations. She praised Vietnam's excellent cuisine, rich history, and the hospitality of its people, emphasizing that these cultural ties complement and enhance the strong economic and political relationship.

Looking Ahead

The fifth Vietnam-Australia Foreign Ministers' Meeting marked a milestone in the bilateral relationship, setting the stage for future collaborations. Both nations are committed to elevating their partnership to new heights, with a focus on strategic trust, mutual respect, and shared prosperity. As they prepare to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations, the foundations laid during this meeting are poised to usher in a new era of comprehensive cooperation.

In conclusion, the discussions and agreements from this meeting reflect a deepening partnership grounded in shared values and common goals. Vietnam and Australia are poised to navigate regional challenges collaboratively, leveraging their strong bilateral ties to promote peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.