Page 252 - MOE ENGLISH PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/29/24, 4:30 PM PM urges early conclusion of Vietnam-UAE CEPA negotiations
Both sides expressed their delight at the recent positive development of the bilateral ties, with regular exchanges of all-level
delegations and two-way trade estimated at nearly USD 4 billion in the first seven months of this year, up 47 percent year on
year

They expressed determination to further bolster comprehensive cooperation and elevate the bilateral relations by finalizing
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 USD 10 billion.

Both sides need to work closely to realize 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 center in Ho Chi Minh City and invest in other sectors.
As both sides should enhance collaboration in labor, 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 finalize 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.- (VNA/VLLF)

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