Vietnam and New Zealand Elevate Comprehensive Strategic Partnership to New Heights

Ahead of the state visit to New Zealand by General Secretary and President Tô Lâm, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Nguyễn Mạnh Cường discussed the current state and future prospects of bilateral relations. This visit is seen as a crucial opportunity to elevate the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and New Zealand to a new level. Deputy Minister Cường highlighted the remarkable development in bilateral relations in recent years, emphasizing that deepening cooperation in trade, science-technology, and education will be key to strengthening ties. Specific areas of collaboration mentioned include innovation, the digital economy, and the transition to a green economy, with the aim of promoting mutual economic growth through these initiatives. The presence of the Vietnamese community in New Zealand and the increasing people-to-people exchanges are also considered vital foundations for deepening the relationship. The establishment of a Vietnamese knowledge network within New Zealand is expected to further promote academic and cultural exchanges between the two countries. Through strengthening ties with New Zealand, Vietnam aims to expand its influence in the region and the international community. Under its one-party system, Vietnam, while pursuing economic growth, prioritizes partnerships with developed countries and seeks to integrate international norms and standards. Especially amidst complex relations with China, reinforcing ties with Western countries like New Zealand is a significant pillar of Vietnam's foreign policy strategy. This visit is anticipated to further solidify economic ties between the two nations and create new opportunities for cooperation.