Talks between Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and Chief Minister of the Australian Capital Territory (ACT) Andrew Barr have led to plans for enhanced cooperation between Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. Ambassador Tâm expressed optimism about Barr’s forthcoming visit to Việt Nam, anticipating that it would create new avenues for collaboration. He pointed to the potential for joint ventures in areas such as renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and smart urban development.
The ambassador suggested the creation of a friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT to ensure sustained collaboration across various sectors. This initiative aims to strengthen the bilateral ties and support long-term partnerships between these regions.
Andrew Barr, preparing for his inaugural visit to Việt Nam, identified the country as a priority economic partner for the ACT within its broader international engagement strategy. He showed interest in establishing a sister-city relationship with Hà Nội, highlighting the mutual benefits of working together on projects focused on green transition, electric transport, and renewable energy.
Barr emphasized the importance of initiatives that align with global goals for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. He also expressed his willingness to engage in public diplomacy activities during future visits by senior Vietnamese officials to Australia, underscoring the ACT’s commitment to fostering closer ties with Việt Nam.