In a recent development aimed at bolstering ties, Việt Nam and Australia’s Australian Capital Territory (ACT) have committed to enhancing cooperation among Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. This decision emerged from discussions between Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and ACT Chief Minister Andrew Barr. Ambassador Tâm extended a warm welcome to Barr, who is scheduled to visit Hà Nội and Ho Chi Minh City shortly. Tâm expressed optimism that Barr’s visit would pave the way for new collaboration opportunities in several key sectors.
Ambassador Tâm underscored the potential for partnerships in areas such as renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and smart urban development. He also put forward a proposal to establish a friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT, which would serve as a foundation for sustained collaboration across multiple sectors.
Chief Minister Barr, preparing for his inaugural visit to Việt Nam, acknowledged the country’s significance as one of ACT’s priority economic partners within its international engagement strategy. He expressed enthusiasm for the proposed sister-city relationship with Hà Nội. Barr highlighted the promising prospects for joint initiatives focused on green transition, electric transport, and renewable energy, aligning with both regions’ goals to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
Furthermore, Barr conveyed his readiness to engage in public diplomacy efforts during future visits by senior Vietnamese officials to Australia. This initiative is seen as an opportunity to deepen mutual understanding and cooperation between the two regions. Both leaders anticipate that these efforts will strengthen economic, educational, and cultural ties, fostering long-term benefits for both Việt Nam and the ACT.