Vietnam and New Zealand have elevated their bilateral ties by signing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership agreement, marking a significant step in strengthening economic cooperation and regional engagement. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon and his Vietnamese counterpart, Pham Minh Chinh, formalized the agreement in Hanoi during Luxon’s visit with a trade delegation. This move places New Zealand among a select group of 10 nations with such a partnership with Vietnam, alongside Malaysia, France, Australia, Japan, the United States, and South Korea.
The agreement aims to expand economic collaboration, trade, and investment between the two nations while reinforcing political and strategic ties. As Vietnam continues to grow as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, the partnership is expected to open new opportunities for businesses and investors.
The discussions highlighted shared commitments to regional security, sustainable economic development, and adherence to international trade regulations. The visit stressed economic priorities, including enhancing trade flows, strengthening defence cooperation, and addressing climate change challenges.
Business discussions took center stage, with agreements signed to facilitate educational exchanges and increase the number of Vietnamese students studying in New Zealand. Additionally, Vietnam’s budget carrier VietJet Air announced plans to launch a direct flight route to New Zealand, improving connectivity and fostering tourism and business exchanges.
Following the official engagements in Hanoi, Luxon also visited Ho Chi Minh City, where the focus shifted to business initiatives, trade promotions, and showcasing New Zealand’s products in the Vietnamese market. This upgraded relationship reflects both countries’ commitment to deepening economic ties and strengthening regional cooperation in an increasingly complex Indo-Pacific landscape.
(Sources: RNZ)
