Germany ready to deepen partnership with Viet Nam in green growth, skills and innovation

 The year 2025 marks two important milestones including the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations (1975–2025) and the 14th anniversary of the Strategic Partnership (2011–2025). Could you please share your views on the future direction of the relationship, including Germany's key priorities and efforts to further advance and promote this partnership — especially in the Year of the Horse, which aligns with the dynamic spirit of the horse in driving forward cooperation?

German Ambassador Helga Margarete Barth: Germany's relationship with Viet Nam has grown significantly over the years, and we see great potential for deeper political and economic cooperation in the years to come. As Viet Nam continues its ambitious economic transformation, Germany is ready to support the country's goals, particularly in areas such as sustainable development, digital transformation, infrastructure development and innovation.

Germany is particularly interested in deepening enhancing educational and vocational training collaborations, as we believe that the development of a skilled workforce is key for both countries' prosperity. We are therefore committed to continue supporting initiatives such as the Viet Nam-German University in Ho Chi Minh City, which provides education based on Germany's high standards.

Regarding workforce development, good qualifications and a considerable language proficiency are essential for a successful pathway to Germany. While there is without doubt interest in exploring the opportunities for young Vietnamese in the German labor market, it is important to emphasize that interested individuals should be equipped with strong skills to succeed.

Germany is also eager to deepen economic ties with Viet Nam, particularly in the green energy and high-tech sectors. For investments to flourish, it is crucial that favorable and reliable conditions are in place, which will then further draw German companies to invest in Viet Nam's growing market.

Germany is Viet Nam's top trading partner in the EU, its 12th largest globally, and the fourth-largest European investor in the country. What are your expectations for Viet Nam's development prospects and the Viet Nam–Germany economic relationship in 2026?

German Ambassador Helga Margarete Barth: Viet Nam's economic growth has been impressive, and looking ahead, I expect this trend to continue for the years to come Germany remains committed to supporting Viet Nam's development, particularly in high-tech industries, infrastructure development, renewable energy, and digital transformation.

Today, Germany is already Viet Nam's largest EU trading partner, with trade bilateral reaching over €19 billion in 2025. The EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) has further enhanced these ties, removing tariffs and boosting exports. We foresee more German companies expanding their presence in Viet Nam, especially in the automotive, machinery, and electronics sectors. It is widely recognized that the establishment of favorable and predictable conditions are key when it comes to attracting foreign investment and Germany therefore looks forward to continuing our close cooperation in order to ensure that both Vietnamese and German businesses can thrive.

As we move forward, I am furthermore convinced that there is great potential to further strengthen our cooperation on vocational training, as Germany has a long-standing tradition of providing quality technical education.

The Lunar New Year Festival is approaching and you had a chance to enjoy Tet in Viet Nam in the Year of Snake, how do you feel about this important celebration in Viet Nam and its cultural significance?

German Ambassador Helga Margarete Barth: Witnessing Tet in Viet Nam is like watching a symphony—every note, every gesture, every tradition seems to play a part in creating a beautiful, harmonious celebration. I am impressed by how families and country as a whole come together to prepare for this nationwide festival. The streets come alive with color and energy, while families, near and far, unite to honour their ancestors and share their hopes for the future. This effort to bring people together, to preserve traditions and pass them on to the next generation, is truly remarkable.

Tet is not just about festivities; it's about reflection, renewal, and connecting with what really matters. The care and attention that goes into preparing for Tet —the decorations, the food, the family rituals—show a deep respect for history and a shared hope for the future. I am eager to learn more about this unique tradition in the future and I invite you to take a look at the special Têt greeting that was prepared by the German Embassy in Ha Noi and the German Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing some of the many members of Team Germany here in Viet Nam.

I extend my warmest wishes to the Vietnamese people for a prosperous, healthy, and joyful Year of the Horse! In the coming year, we will continue to support each other's goals. Germany is committed to collaborating with Viet Nam in many areas such as education, vocational training, and innovation. Good qualifications and skills are key to succeeding in today's global economy, and I encourage young Vietnamese to continue pursuing educational opportunities in Germany. I look forward to further strengthening the already strong ties between our countries and look forward to a future of continued partnership and collaboration.

Ich wünsche Ihnen allen ein frohes, gesundes und erfolgreiches Jahr des Pferdes!

Chúc Mừng Năm Mới!