In a bid to bolster ties, Vietnam and Australia’s Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have reached an agreement to enhance cooperation among Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. The agreement followed discussions between Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr. Ambassador Tâm expressed optimism about Barr’s upcoming visit to Hà Nội and Ho Chi Minh City, believing it will pave the way for new collaborative opportunities.
Ambassador Tâm emphasized the potential for partnerships in several sectors, including renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and smart urban development. He also proposed the creation of a friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT, aiming to support enduring collaboration across these diverse fields.
Chief Minister Barr, preparing for his inaugural visit to Vietnam, acknowledged the country as one of the ACT’s priority economic partners within its international engagement strategy. He responded positively to the idea of establishing a sister-city relationship with Hà Nội and highlighted the shared opportunities in advancing green transitions, electric transport, and renewable energy initiatives. These efforts align with their mutual aspirations to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Additionally, Barr expressed his readiness to engage in public diplomacy activities, particularly during future visits of senior Vietnamese leaders to Australia. His commitment underscores the ACT’s intention to deepen its ties with Vietnam, fostering a robust partnership that spans various sectors and initiatives.