Australia expects to be steadfast, reliable, consistent partner of Viet Nam: Foreign Minister Penny Wong

During her interview with the press in Ha Noi on August 20, Wong held that Australia has given high priority to engaging more deeply with the Southeast Asian nations, including Viet Nam.

"We hope to be a steadfast, reliable, and consistent partner of Viet Nam," she stated.

Penny Wong noted that the two countries have completed more than 90 percent of the targets set under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a clear demonstration of the importance and effectiveness of the bilateral cooperation.

Australia is currently among Viet Nam's top 10 trading partners. Bilateral trade has doubled since 2006.

Wong noted that Southeast Asia is projected to become the world's fourth-largest economy by 2040, with Viet Nam playing a key role in that process.

"Viet Nam is a dynamic economy in a really dynamic economic region and what Australia wants to be is a partner in that development which benefits both countries and all countries," Penny Wong stressed.

Australia has developed a Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040 aimed at strengthening its economic engagement with the region, including Viet Nam.

One concrete example of economic cooperation is a US$350 million credit deal involving Vietnam Prosperity Joint-Stock Commercial Bank (VPBank) and partners from several countries, including Australia.

The diplomat hails Viet Nam's role in the region, particularly within ASEAN, emphasizing the nation's consistent respect for national sovereignty and adherence to international law. She also congratulated Viet Nam on its 80th anniversary of National Day and the 30th anniversary of ASEAN membership.

Regarding people-to-people exchanges and cooperation in education, Wong highlighted that there are currently about 37,000 Vietnamese students in Australia and 17,000 Vietnamese students enrolled in Australian degree programs in Viet Nam.

She affirmed that education and the Vietnamese community in Australia serve as an important bridge, fostering strong ties between the two countries.

In addition to boosting cooperation in investment, trade, and education, Australia reaffirms its readiness to work alongside Viet Nam in emerging areas such as the digital economy, green economy, and sustainable development.

The Foreign Minister also shared that during this visit to Viet Nam, Australia announced an additional AUD 50 million support package for Mekong countries to strengthen climate resilience and water security, along with 30 Australia Awards scholarships for the region.

Accordingly, the two sides will continue expanding cooperation in various fields, including science and technology, climate change response, and sustainable development.

Penny Wong said that Australia wishes to be a reliable partner, accompanying Viet Nam on its path toward becoming a high-income country by 2045./.