Vietnam and Chile have issued a 14-point joint statement following President Lương Cường’s visit, marking significant diplomatic milestones, including a commitment to deepen bilateral ties across various sectors. The leaders discussed enhancing trade, security cooperation, and adherence to international law, with plans for future engagements, including a visit by President Boric to Vietnam.
Vietnam and Chile recently issued a 14-point joint statement following President Lương Cường’s official visit to the South American nation from November 9 to 11, 2023. This visit marks the first by a Vietnamese head of state in 15 years and celebrates the 55th anniversary of the historic meeting between Salvador Allende and President Hồ Chí Minh, which led to diplomatic relations in 1971. Both leaders engaged in discussions on enhancing bilateral ties and addressing global challenges of mutual concern. During the visit, President Cường held talks with several key Chilean officials and delivered a policy address at the University of Chile, emphasizing the importance of furthering the bilateral comprehensive partnership established in 2007. They reiterated their commitment to promoting peace, stability, and cooperation in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, while also fostering exchanges at various levels including legislative and academic bodies. Commerce between the two nations continues to grow, with the leaders recognizing the significance of the Việt Nam-Chile Free Trade Agreement and expressing their intention to enhance its effectiveness. They also resolved to expand collaboration in defense, security, agriculture, renewable energy, and tourism, along with committing to streamline market access for agricultural products. In their statement, both countries expressed support for multilateralism, particularly within the framework of international law and the UN Charter, with Chile acknowledging its eagerness to join the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP). The leaders affirmed that the 1982 UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNLOS) serves as the guiding legal framework for maritime activities, advocating for peaceful resolutions to disputes in accordance with international law. President Cường extended a formal invitation for President Boric to visit Vietnam in 2025, which was graciously accepted, signifying a desire to cultivate closer ties moving forward. The meeting concluded with optimism regarding future relations, aiming to maximize the collaborative possibilities identified during this visit.
Vietnam and Chile share a historical connection dating back to the early diplomatic engagements in the 1970s. The joint statement comes during a significant anniversary of their official diplomatic relations and reflects the evolving partnership between the two nations. The recent visit aims to bolster bilateral ties particularly as both countries navigate opportunities within trade, international cooperation, and shared global challenges. The leaders’ discussions cover a range of strategic areas, including trade agreements and security cooperation, highlighting their commitment to a stable and prosperous Asia-Pacific region.
In conclusion, the official visit of President Lương Cường to Chile has paved the way for a more profound collaboration between Vietnam and Chile. The leaders have set ambitious goals to enhance their bilateral partnership across various sectors including trade and defense, while also reinforcing their commitment to multilateral cooperation guided by international law. With plans to expand ties in the coming years, both nations are optimistic about future developments following this historic meeting.
Original Source: vietnamnews.vn
