Việt Nam and Chile strengthen bilateral ties with a 14-point joint statement issued during President Lương Cường’s visit. Key discussions emphasized friendship, mutual respect, and cooperation in diverse sectors, with a historical backdrop of diplomatic relations initiated in 1971. The leaders committed to enhancing trade and collaboration in areas such as agriculture, defense, and renewable energy, culminating in an agreement for future diplomatic engagement.
On November 9-11, during an official visit to Chile at the invitation of President Gabriel Boric Font, Vietnamese President Lương Cường and Chile’s leadership issued a 14-point joint statement to enhance bilateral relations. The statement emphasized key discussions on friendship and global issues, showcasing the visit as symbolically significant as it was the first by a Vietnamese leader in 15 years. Both leaders expressed mutual admiration for each nation’s achievements, underscoring the historic bonds dating back to the 1969 meeting between Salvador Allende and President Hồ Chí Minh that initiated diplomatic ties in 1971. The leaders agreed to promote the comprehensive partnership established in 2007 and committed to fostering cooperation across various sectors including defense, agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism. They recognized the importance of the Việt Nam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and pledged to improve market access for agricultural products. Notably, both countries are strengthening their diplomatic presence, with Việt Nam opening a defense attaché office in Santiago and Chile establishing an agricultural attaché office in Hanoi. Furthermore, the leaders affirmed their support for multilateralism and adherence to international law, with Chile backing Việt Nam’s hosting of the APEC 2027 summit. Chile also expressed interest in joining the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), which Việt Nam welcomed. They acknowledged the significance of the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea as a legal framework for maritime activities and emphasized the importance of resolving disputes peacefully. The discussions culminated in an invitation by President Cường for President Boric to visit Việt Nam in 2025, which was graciously accepted.
The joint statement issued by Việt Nam and Chile represents a significant diplomatic effort to strengthen bilateral relations after a period of limited interaction. This visit marks a pivotal moment, celebrating 55 years since the initial meeting that established diplomatic ties. The discussions span essential areas of mutual interest, reflecting a commitment to advancing cooperation in various fields and addressing pressing global issues collaboratively.
In summary, the joint statement reflects a renewed commitment between Việt Nam and Chile to bolster their bilateral relations across multiple sectors. The visit highlights significant historical ties and mutual respect between the nations, coupled with a strategic approach to future cooperation that emphasizes multilateral frameworks and economic partnerships. The invitation for a future visit further signifies the leaders’ intent to enhance diplomatic engagement moving forward.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
