4 pillars of Viet Nam-Norway Green Strategic Partnership

Following the establishment of the Green Strategic Partnership (GSP), could you share the priority areas that Norway and Viet Nam will focus on in the coming period?

The Green Strategic Partnership between Viet Nam and Norway not only builds on more than 55 years of friendship, but also opens a new chapter in advancing economic development alongside environmental protection.

The establishment of the GSP marks an important milestone in the over five-decade relationship between the two countries. The Memorandum of Understanding is not merely a cooperation document, but a strong commitment by both sides to two key pillars: the green economy and the ocean economy.

The two countries have identified priority areas including the circular economy, ocean economy, forestry, and notably marine spatial planning. These are sectors in which Norway has extensive experience, while Viet Nam has significant development needs. Through this cooperation, both sides aim to balance economic growth with environmental protection and climate change response.

While it is still early to disclose detailed technical plans, joint working groups have already been established to define cooperation roadmaps. In a global geopolitical context marked by increasing uncertainty, the MoU sends a strong message to the international community: Norway and Viet Nam remain steadfast in their commitment to climate and environmental protection.

What mechanisms will ensure that this partnership delivers tangible progress?

One of our top priorities is aligning with the Paris Agreement and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. These commitments are being translated into concrete provisions within the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) currently under negotiation between Viet Nam and the European Free Trade Association, which includes Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.

This is a crucial objective to ensure that trade growth goes hand in hand with low emissions. In addition, the GSB will provide a platform for regular exchanges on technology and expertise, thereby facilitating green investment flows between the two countries.

At the same time, I highly appreciate Viet Nam’s proactive efforts. Initiatives such as developing forest carbon credit mechanisms and advancing marine spatial planning are strategic steps forward. Norway and Viet Nam share many similarities: both are maritime nations striving to protect nature while expanding economic development.

From Norway’s side, we are ready to share effective governance models, such as marine spatial planning and the circular economy - where resources are optimized across multiple life cycles. The development of carbon markets and forest protection are also areas where we can deepen cooperation, ensuring long-term benefits for future generations.

Finally, what message would you like to send to Vietnamese businesses and people?

Businesses are a key driving force. Governments can create the framework, but it is the private sector that turns solutions into reality. We hope to support enterprises from both countries in strengthening connections and making the most of opportunities from free trade agreements to promote investment in green technologies, renewable energy, and sustainable fisheries.

Therefore, businesses should take a proactive and open approach to exploring opportunities for cooperation with EFTA countries. As for the Vietnamese people, I would like to share a simple message: Try Norwegian seafood! These are high-quality, healthy products produced through the most sustainable practices. The upcoming Free Trade Agreement will bring such products closer to you. The Viet Nam - Norway relationship will continue to flourish, delivering tangible benefits to individuals and businesses alike.

Thank you very much!

Through the MoU on the Viet Nam - Norway Green Strategic Partnership, two countries will focus cooperation on priority areas such as climate and environment, the circular economy, sustainable forestry, fisheries, green maritime solutions, and a sustainable ocean economy.

Key areas of cooperation include policy dialogue, technical collaboration, and the implementation of concrete initiatives, with pilot models that can be scaled up. These efforts aim to align environmental protection with economic development, ensuring that the green transition is both effective and inclusive.