Vietnamese President To Lam to Visit Australia for Talks on Deepening Cooperation

Vietnamese President To Lam is scheduled to visit Australia from August 9-12, a trip expected to deepen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two nations. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will welcome President To Lam in Canberra on August 11 for discussions on strengthening cooperation. "I look forward to welcoming General Secretary and President To Lam to Australia and discussing how we can strengthen cooperation between our two nations," stated Albanese, noting the "deep cultural ties" and approximately 350,000 Australians of Vietnamese heritage. Australia's Ambassador to Vietnam, Gillian Bird, expressed anticipation for the visit, aiming to "open a new chapter in our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership." She highlighted that President To Lam's early visit underscores the "growing ambition and momentum in our relationship," emphasizing shared interests and a commitment to regional peace, stability, and prosperity. Bilateral relations have significantly advanced since diplomatic ties were established in 1973, culminating in the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership on March 7, 2024. This partnership framework facilitates expanded cooperation in climate, environment, energy, digital transformation, and innovation, reflecting strategic trust and shared ambitions. Economically, Australia is Vietnam's seventh-largest trading partner, while Vietnam ranks tenth for Australia. Bilateral trade reached US$14 billion in 2025. Australia has invested over US$1.9 billion in Vietnam, with Vietnamese investors contributing US$554.7 million to Australian projects. Australia is also a major provider of Official Development Assistance (ODA) to Vietnam. Cultural exchange is robust, with nearly 550,000 Australian visitors to Vietnam and approximately 200,000 Vietnamese visitors to Australia in 2025. The countries are connected by 56 weekly flights, and the Vietnamese community in Australia numbers around 375,000.