Vietnamese Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam has embarked on official visits to the European Union and Belgium, arriving in Brussels on Wednesday. The visit comes at the invitation of European Council President António Costa and Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever, with the aim of strengthening diplomatic ties and expanding economic cooperation between Vietnam and its European partners.
These visits are part of a broader strategy by Vietnam to enhance its international relations and engagement with Europe. Since establishing diplomatic relations with the EU in 1990, Vietnam has gradually expanded its collaboration across various sectors, including trade, economic development, security, and sustainable growth. This relationship was further solidified in January 2026 when both sides upgraded to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, paving the way for collaboration in energy, green transition, innovation, and regional security.
Similarly, Vietnam’s diplomatic relations with Belgium date back to 1973, with cooperation extending into trade, agriculture, education, science, and technology. Both nations also collaborate on international issues through platforms like the United Nations and ASEAN-EU frameworks. The current visit is expected to reinforce these political ties and translate existing agreements into practical initiatives.
President To Lam is accompanied by his spouse, Ngo Phuong Ly, and a senior Vietnamese delegation, underscoring the importance of these visits. The trip aims to further the commitments between Vietnam and Europe, reflecting Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to broaden its international partnerships and economic engagements.