Page 250 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/29/24, 4:30 PM PM urges early conclusion of Vietnam-UAE CEPA negotiations
They expressed determination to further bolster comprehensive cooperation and elevate the bilateral
relations by finalising and signing the CEPA.

PM Chinh suggested facilitating cooperation and investment between businesses of both countries,
considering the possibility of reducing tariffs on certain goods to leverage complementary strengths of
their economies, aiming for a two-way trade target of 10 billion USD.

Both sides need to work closely to realise the agreements already reached, well prepare for the 6th
meeting of the Inter-Governmental Committee in 2025, and step up cooperation in the energy, oil and
gas sectors, he said.

They should also enhance collaboration in developing the Halal food industry, promoting the
Vietnamese export of Halal products, seafood, fresh fruits, and processed foods to the UAE and the
Middle East, PM Chinh said, encouraging the UAE to support the establishment of an international
financial centre in Ho Chi Minh City and invest in other sectors.

As both sides should enhance collaboration in labour, culture, sports, tourism, and people-to-people
exchanges through easing visa requirements and launching direct flights, he said Vietnam would step up
its efforts to train human resources to meet the UAE's needs.

PM Chinh noted that Vietnam is ready to serve as a bridge for the UAE to strengthen cooperation with
the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), while considering the UAE as a gateway to
foster collaboration with the Middle East.

Al Zeyoudi updated the PM on the CEPA negotiations, assuring that UAE ministries and agencies are
actively working with Vietnamese counterparts to finalise and sign the agreement.

The UAE wants to strengthen collaboration with Vietnamese firms to produce and process Halal food,
he said, adding that the UAE plans to establish a council of business cooperation with Vietnam to
deepen and improve the effectiveness of Vietnam-UAE cooperation, particularly in trade and
investment.

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