Vietnam, Canada Aim to Elevate Bilateral Relations

Vietnam and Canada are looking to elevate their Comprehensive Partnership in the time ahead, with a focus on deepening cooperation in key areas including trade, technology, and defense. Economically, Vietnam has urged Canada to further open its market to Vietnamese goods, particularly agro-forestry-fishery products. Canada is currently Vietnam's second-largest trading partner in the Americas, with bilateral trade projected to reach approximately $8.5 billion in 2025. Canadian foreign direct investment in Vietnam stands at nearly $4.87 billion across almost 300 projects. In terms of technological cooperation, Vietnam has requested collaboration in workforce training for advanced fields such as artificial intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and semiconductors. This aligns with Vietnam's strategy to foster high-tech industries as a driver of economic growth. Notably, Vietnam's Party Central Committee's Commission for Information, Education and Mass Mobilisation has highlighted the increasing use of AI and digital platforms by hostile forces for cognitive warfare, emphasizing the need for continuous innovation in methods and capabilities to counter such threats and proactively govern public trust. In defense, bilateral ties are advancing effectively across various areas, including delegation exchanges, dialogues, training, UN peacekeeping operations, defense industry, and maritime security. Vietnam expressed confidence that these activities will further strengthen mutual understanding and trust between the two militaries and navies. Vietnam also reiterated its commitment to working closely with fellow ASEAN members to enhance the bloc's voice and contribution to international human rights efforts. Domestically, discussions have included strengthening Party discipline and establishing a national coordinating body for civil defense and disaster response. The draft Law on Urban Development in Ho Chi Minh City was praised as a landmark legislation signaling a shift towards modern urban governance focused on enabling development. Meanwhile, Vietnam continues to regard Japan as a key partner, committed to deepening their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia and the World, emphasizing substantive and effective cooperation in new areas and strategic connectivity initiatives. Information source: VietnamPlus English