In a bid to tackle workforce shortages and bolster economic development, Greece is focusing on enhancing labour cooperation with Vietnam and other countries in the ASEAN region. Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Athanasios Plevris, underscored the importance of these efforts during a recent meeting in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Plevris highlighted that establishing early bilateral labour agreements could play a crucial role in safeguarding the rights of both workers and employers, while also aiding Greece’s objectives to curb irregular migration.
He further pointed out that effective migration management has gained prominence as a priority, especially in light of the European Union’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum. This development reflects a broader strategy within the EU to address migration challenges in a more structured and cooperative manner.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương remarked on the progressive nature of the discussions regarding labour cooperation since her previous talks with the Greek minister. She expressed optimism that Vietnam and Greece would soon finalize a bilateral labour agreement, which she believes would open up more job opportunities for Vietnamese workers and enhance the bilateral relationship between the two countries.
Plevris responded positively to the ambassador’s comments, instructing relevant Greek authorities to continue negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. The aim is to expedite the signing of these labour cooperation agreements, which are seen as mutually beneficial. The Greek Ministry of Migration and Asylum reports that approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers currently hold valid residence permits in Greece, highlighting the existing ties between the two nations.