During his recent visit to Switzerland, Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Văn Thắng urged key international organizations to bolster their support for Vietnam’s economic aspirations. In meetings with the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the World Economic Forum (WEF), Thắng emphasized Vietnam’s dedication to a global trading system grounded in rules and called for urgent reforms within the WTO. He particularly stressed the need to restore the organization’s dispute settlement mechanism and to address emerging challenges such as digital trade, artificial intelligence, climate change, and the resilience of supply chains.
Thắng’s discussions with the WTO underscored Vietnam’s broader objectives of enhancing its trade and investment landscape. As Vietnam sets its sights on transforming into a high-income economy by 2045, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the critical role that international cooperation and support play in achieving this vision. He called on the WTO to not only reform but also to expand its agenda to better reflect the pressing issues of the modern economic environment.
In his engagement with the WEF, Thắng extended an invitation to deepen partnerships that could drive investment and innovation in Vietnam. He stressed the importance of public-private partnerships and the development of international financial centers as key components of Vietnam’s economic strategy. By fostering these collaborations, Thắng envisions a strengthened economic framework that aligns with global standards and stimulates sustainable growth.
Both the WTO and the WEF responded positively to Vietnam’s initiatives, acknowledging the country’s proactive economic reforms. They expressed a commitment to ongoing cooperation with Vietnam, focusing on enhancing trade, investment opportunities, and capacity-building efforts. This mutual understanding signals a promising path forward as Vietnam seeks to navigate the complexities of a rapidly evolving global economy.
Vietnam’s proactive stance in engaging with these international bodies reflects its strategic approach to economic development amid global uncertainties. By seeking to align with global advancements and addressing new economic challenges, Vietnam aims to solidify its position as a dynamic player on the world stage, ensuring long-term prosperity and resilience for its economy.