In a landmark visit marking the first Vietnamese head-of-state presence in Chile in 15 years, Vietnamese State President Lương Cường and Chilean President Gabriel Boric announced a renewed commitment to strengthen the deep-rooted ties between their two nations. During a joint press conference in Santiago de Chile following extensive talks, the leaders unveiled a series of agreements and outlined a shared vision for advancing bilateral cooperation across numerous fields.
A Milestone in Bilateral Relations
President Boric emphasized the importance of President Cường’s visit, characterizing it as a powerful step towards reinforcing the longstanding friendship and comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and Chile. This visit, he noted, holds historical significance, coinciding with the 55th anniversary of a foundational meeting in 1969 between President Hồ Chí Minh and then-Chilean President Salvador Allende in Hà Nội. This moment laid the groundwork for the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1971. Boric reiterated his hope that this trip would serve as a key driver for deepening cooperation in diverse sectors, building upon the robust and mutually beneficial relationship the countries have enjoyed for decades.
Expanding Economic Cooperation and Trade Potential
One of the focal points of the discussions was the successful economic partnership underpinned by a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) that came into effect a decade ago. As Chile’s top ASEAN trading partner, Vietnam serves as a crucial gateway for Chilean exports into Asian markets, while Chile remains a strategic trading partner for Vietnam within Latin America. Both leaders lauded the substantial growth of trade relations, which have flourished despite global economic challenges, but agreed that vast potential for further growth remains.
They are committed to working towards greater economic integration and creating favorable conditions for businesses in both nations to thrive. Highlighting their shared membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), Boric and Cường reaffirmed their intention to further leverage this framework to bolster economic collaboration.
Comprehensive Agreements in Defense, Agriculture, and Culture
Following their talks, the two leaders witnessed the signing of several cooperative agreements, which included a joint statement and memoranda in defense, agriculture, and cultural exchange. The formal establishment of a Vietnamese defense attaché office in Chile is expected to serve as a cornerstone for enhancing bilateral defense ties. Additionally, agreements in agricultural cooperation and cultural exchange are set to strengthen connections and foster knowledge-sharing between both countries.
A Commitment to Multilateralism and Global Stability
On the global stage, Vietnam and Chile reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and mutual support in international forums. Both nations agreed to collaborate closely with organizations such as the United Nations, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), and the ASEAN-Pacific Alliance. The leaders emphasized that they will make meaningful contributions to the upcoming APEC Economic Leaders’ Week in 2024, aiming to foster regional stability and prosperity. Further, the two presidents underscored the importance of adhering to international law and the United Nations Charter in resolving global disputes, expressing shared concern over sovereignty issues in the East Sea. They agreed that territorial disputes should be settled peacefully in alignment with the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), demonstrating their shared vision of a stable, secure international landscape.
Strategic Partnership in Sustainability and Innovation
Acknowledging the complementary strengths of their countries, Cường and Boric identified new avenues for collaboration in areas such as environmental protection, climate change adaptation, green growth, and innovation. They pledged to accelerate cooperation in sustainable development and renewable energy, aligning with both nations’ goals to foster eco-friendly growth and address pressing climate challenges.
Further collaborative efforts are anticipated in sectors including agricultural processing and mining, which align with the distinct economic advantages of each country. Both sides expressed a desire to negotiate additional agreements to enhance legal frameworks, ensuring that the bilateral relationship continues to thrive sustainably.
Strengthening Historical Ties and Mutual Support
President Cường expressed profound gratitude to President Boric, the Chilean government, and the Chilean people for their enduring solidarity, especially during Vietnam’s struggle for independence and its subsequent journey towards national development. He also extended a formal invitation to President Boric to visit Vietnam, a gesture that Boric warmly accepted, pledging to further solidify the partnership between the two nations.
A Renewed Vision for Vietnam-Chile Relations
The historic visit by President Cường marks a new chapter in Vietnam-Chile relations, setting the stage for a more intensive, practical, and dynamic partnership. The discussions and agreements reached signify both nations’ commitment to a shared future, underscored by economic growth, mutual respect, and a common pursuit of peace and stability. With both countries celebrating milestones in their diplomatic relationship and looking ahead to future opportunities, the leaders’ meeting on November 11 stands as a testament to their dedication to fostering a partnership that will continue to benefit both Vietnamese and Chilean citizens for generations to come.
