President Luong Cuong poses for a photo with ambassadors and charge d'affaires of EU member countries in Vietnam. Photo: VOV

At the meeting, President Cuong asked the ambassadors to push the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and the removal of the IUU yellow card imposed on Vietnam's seafood exports, taking into account the differences in development levels between the two sides and the livelihoods of Vietnamese fishermen and helping Vietnam develop its marine economy and sustainable aquaculture.

The President said he hopes that the diplomats will always be an important bridge, contributing more to the friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and the EU and its member countries, elevating Vietnam-EU ties to a new height.

Discussing global issues of mutual concern, President Cuong said Vietnam is a responsible member of the international community and supports the settlement of disputes by peaceful means, on the basis of international law.

The Head of the EU Delegation said Vietnam is an important partner of the EU in Southeast Asia and the bilateral relationship is developing positively with much potential for cooperation.

Regarding the East Sea issue, the EU is committed to strongly supporting the settlement of disputes in the East Sea by peaceful means, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982), contributing to ensuring security, safety and freedom of navigation, strengthening peace, stability and prosperity of the region, where 40% of EU goods are transported annually, Guerrier said.