Vietnam and the European Union need a more robust relationship commensurate with the level of cooperation between the two sides, according to Josep Borrell Fontelles, Vice-President of the European Commission (EC) and High Representative of the European Union (EU) for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy.

European Commission Vice-President Josep Borrell Fontelles (right) and European Union Ambassador to Vietnam Julien Guerrier at the July 31 press conference. Photo: Tu Anh/The Hanoi Times

At a press conference on July 31, Josep Borrel emphasized Vietnam's importance in EU foreign policy, citing that Vietnam is the EU's main trading partner in Southeast Asia, with the most agreements and cooperation frameworks in the region.

Cooperation between Vietnam and the EU has been boosted by the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which was ratified in 2020 and has resulted in a 36% increase in bilateral trade, he said.

The EU official also emphasized the importance of cooperation in conservation and clean energy. He pledged that the EU would support Vietnam's net-zero goal with priority projects and policy reforms under the Just Energy Transition Partnerships (JETP).

Vietnam plays a crucial role in the EU's Indo-Pacific strategy, he said, adding that his visit will contribute to upgrading the relationship between Vietnam and the EU.

The “yellow card” issue

Commenting on the "yellow card" issued to Vietnam by the EU for illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, the EU official urged Vietnam to develop a sustainable fishing industry.

He noted that the EU has talked with Vietnam's Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development about installing tracking devices on fishing vessels and enforcing rules to ensure effective compliance in Vietnam's coastal areas.

The EU is expecting a new report from the Vietnamese authorities this fall before a visit by an EU delegation to consider the lifting of the "yellow card."

At the press conference, Josep Borrel praised the resilience of the Vietnamese people, the country's rapid development and diplomatic efforts. He also expressed his condolences on the passing of General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong and paid tribute to his contributions to Vietnam's foreign policy.