In 2024, Vietnam and Sweden celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations, which marks the year Sweden officially became the first Western country to formally recognize and establish ties with Vietnam in 1969.
In a recent interview with the Vietnam News Agency, the Vietnamese Ambassador to Sweden, Tran Van Tuan, emphasized the vast potential for collaboration between the two nations, particularly in areas where Sweden excels. These include climate change, environmental protection, science and technology, labour, trade, and investment.
With Vietnam’s rapidly growing economy, political stability, and population exceeding 100 million, Tuan noted that it presents an attractive market for Swedish businesses.
The Vietnam-Sweden Business Forum took place on September 6 to commemorate this significant anniversary. The forum explored opportunities, challenges, and potential partnerships between businesses from both countries. It served as a platform for discussions on digital transformation, energy transition, and innovation, fostering company exchanges.
Tuan highlighted Vietnam’s potential in digital transformation and renewable energy, particularly wind power, and its science, technology, and innovation advancements. He also highlighted Sweden’s experience in these fields as a valuable asset.
Of the 42 active agreements between the two nations, 18 focus on science and technology, indicating a promising future for growth in this sector. The interest from major Swedish tech companies, such as Ericsson, ABB, and Electrolux, in establishing a presence in Vietnam reflects this potential. Some companies have expressed interest in setting up research and development centres and high-tech factories in Vietnam.
Conversely, Vietnamese firms like the tech giant FPT have begun operations in Sweden, signalling a positive outlook for further collaboration in science and technology.
Ambassador Tuan assured that the embassy is committed to strengthening bilateral cooperation in various fields, including climate change response, environmental protection, waste management, digital transformation, energy transition, financial management, healthcare, labour, trade, and investment.
