In a bid to enhance bilateral ties, Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Hùng Tâm and Andrew Barr, Chief Minister of Australia’s Australian Capital Territory (ACT), have agreed to bolster collaboration with Hà Nội, Ho Chi Minh City, and Canberra. The discussions took place as Barr prepares for his first official visit to Việt Nam, a move anticipated to forge new avenues for cooperation between the cities.
Ambassador Tâm expressed optimism about Barr’s upcoming trip to Hà Nội and Ho Chi Minh City, suggesting it could pave the way for fresh partnerships. He underscored the potential for joint ventures in sectors such as renewable energy, innovation, education, tourism, and smart urban development. As part of these efforts, Tâm proposed the establishment of a friendship and cooperation agreement between Hà Nội and the ACT, aimed at fostering sustained collaboration across diverse fields.
Emphasizing the strategic importance of Việt Nam to the ACT’s international engagement strategy, Barr expressed his keen interest in developing a sister-city relationship with Hà Nội. He identified key areas for cooperation, including green transition, electric transport, and renewable energy projects, all crucial to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. These initiatives reflect a shared commitment to addressing global environmental challenges.
During the talks, Barr also conveyed his readiness to engage in public diplomacy activities. He indicated a willingness to participate in such endeavors during upcoming visits by senior Vietnamese leaders to Australia, further solidifying the diplomatic and economic ties between the regions.