Vietnam and Australia’s Australian Capital Territory (ACT) are set to enhance their cooperative efforts, particularly between Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. This development follows productive dialogues between Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr. Ambassador Tâm expressed a warm welcome for Barr’s impending visit to Hà Nội and Ho Chi Minh City, anticipating that it would pave the way for new collaborative ventures.
Ambassador Tâm underscored the potential for robust partnerships in several key sectors, including renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and the development of smart urban infrastructure. He also suggested the establishment of a formal friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT, which would facilitate sustained collaboration across these multiple sectors.
Chief Minister Andrew Barr, preparing for his inaugural trip to Vietnam, recognized the country as a priority economic partner under the ACT’s international engagement strategy. He responded positively to the proposal of forming a sister-city relationship with Hà Nội, highlighting the potential for joint efforts in areas like green transition, electric transport, and renewable energy projects. These initiatives are crucial to achieving net-zero emissions goals by the year 2050.
Furthermore, Barr expressed a keen interest in engaging with public diplomacy activities during any future visits by senior Vietnamese leaders to Australia. His visit marks a significant step in strengthening ties, reflecting a mutual commitment to exploring opportunities that promote sustainable development and economic growth between the two regions.
