Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and EC President Antonio Costa (Photo: Nhat Bac/VGP)

He underscored Vietnam’s strong political resolve to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and asked the European Commission (EC) to soon send an IUU inspection mission to Vietnam for assessment and to lift the “yellow card” warning.

Mr. Chinh proposed that the two sides reach agreement on a roadmap to upgrade their bilateral relationship, boost trade and investment cooperation, and make science, technology and innovation a key pillar.

An overview of the working session (Photo: Nhat Bac/VGP)

Acknowledging the EU’s important global role, he affirmed Vietnam’s support for the EU’s Global Gateway initiative, stressing that Vietnam strongly backs ASEAN–EU ties and will continue to serve as a gateway linking the EU with Southeast Asia.

EC President Costa agreed on the priorities stated by Prime Minister Chinh, saying that the EU highly values Vietnam’s role and position, particularly its economic development achievements.

He welcomed ongoing discussions on elevating the relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, stressing the EU’s desire to step up cooperation with Vietnam, especially in trade and investment, green and digital transitions, responses to global challenges, and upholding a rules-based international order.