Investment promotion forum held in Brussels

Brussels (VNA) – A forum was held in Brussels, Belgium on September 18 to promote economic ties between Vietnam and Belgium and other European nations, with more than 100 business representatives in attendance.

Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue, who chaired the event, detailed Vietam’s socio-economic development plans and highlighted the country’s role in connecting European firms with the Asia–Pacific market.

The Vietnamese Government pledges to continue building a transparent, and friendly investment environment for investors, Hue said.

Hue encouraged Belgian and European firms to hasten the signing and ratification of the Vietnam – EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which is expected to create opportunities for enterprises of both sides, adding that they should invest in the sectors of common interest, particularly manufacturing, hi-tech, infrastructure, environment, finance – banking, agro-forestry-fishery, food processing, energy, ICT, and pharmaceuticals.

The Deputy PM called on investors to study opportunities to become strategic partners of Vietnamese state-owned enterprises during the equitisation and divestment process.

“Nothing can get in the way of boosting relations between Vietnam and Belgium and the EU in general in a stronger manner”, he said.

Belgian and European enterprises expressed their impression at the socio-economic achievements Vietnam has made over the years.

They also showed interest in investment opportunities in Vietnam, and noted the country’s important position in business links between the EU and Asia – Pacific.

They also made recommendations to improve the Vietnamese investment climate, including strengthening dialogues between the Government and enterprises.

Most participants lauded the potential role of EVFTA in creating a legal framework and opportunities for both sides’ firms.

The same day, the Vietnamese official had separate meetings with leaders of a number of groups, namely the Beverage AB InBev Group and the steel wire transformation and coatings Bekaert S.A Group of Belgium and Pharma Group Vietnam.

During the meetings, he informed the groups of Vietnam’s policies on developing sectors relevant to them, and encouraged them to connect with Vietnamese firms to expand operations in the country.

The groups praised the measures Vietnam has taken to create a favourable business environment for foreign investors.

They also reiterated their support for putting the EVFTA into effect soon and will convey this message to the governments of EU member states.-VNA