Hanoi (VNA) - Brazilian Ambassador to Vietnam Marco Farani emphasised the significance of President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva's visit to Vietnam in strengthening bilateral relations.
At the invitation of Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong, Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva will make an official state visit to Vietnam from March 27 to 29.
Ahead of the visit, Ambassador Farani stated that the trip holds great importance to bilateral ties. Despite the geographical distance, the two countries share many similarities and a special bond.
Looking towards joint action plan
Ambassador Farani emphasised that the visit is crucial as Vietnam has emerged as a significant player on the global stage. The international community has acknowledged Vietnam’s geopolitical importance and praised its effective and strategic foreign policies.
Vietnam has rapidly industrialised and integrated into the global market, signing free trade agreements (FTAs) with 64 countries. This has positioned Vietnam as a key manufacturing and export hub, not only in the region but also for major markets such as Europe, China, and India.
Vietnam’s political stability and foreign policy provide the most sought-after conditions for investors - safety and security. This assurance extends beyond societal safety to a secure environment for investment, production, and export.
Ambassador Farani remarked that President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva’s visit offers Vietnam an opportunity to strengthen ties with a major developing country from the Global South.
Brazil is the largest economy in the Global South, with a GDP of 2.5 trillion USD. It boasts a strong industrial sector and is a leader in agriculture. Ambassador Farani believed that the two
He said during the visit, President Lula da Silva and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh are expected to sign a Joint Action Plan for the Strategic Partnership. This is a major milestone as it will outline key areas for enhanced collaboration.
In addition to political cooperation, people-to-people diplomacy, and cultural exchange, Brazil has identified four key technical cooperation areas within the strategic partnership framework including agriculture, science and technology, national defence, and energy transition.
A Brazil-Vietnam Economic Forum will be held during the state visit, featuring 50 major Brazilian companies and at least 100 Vietnamese businesses. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and President Lula da Silva will deliver keynote speeches.
Ambassador Farani highlighted the forum’s role in connecting businesses and fostering trade and economic partnerships.
This visit is particularly significant as Vietnam is keen on a free trade agreement (FTA) with the Mercosur bloc, comprising Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Uruguay. President Lula da Silva will assume Mercosur’s rotating presidency in the second half of the year.
The ambassador noted the two leaders will discuss the FTA negotiation process with Mercosur, saying a well-structured agreement will benefit both sides.
Optimistic about Vietnam’s economic outlook
Ambassador Farani expressed his excitement about serving in Vietnam at this transformative time, witnessing the country’s rapid and positive economic developments.
He said that he believes Vietnam is on the right path to becoming a fully developed nation within the next 15 years. Last year, its economy grew by 7%, which is expected to rise to 8% this year and 10% over the next two years, all impressive figures.
He voiced strong optimism about Vietnam’s economic prospects and pledged to enhance cooperation between Brazil and Vietnam. He also hoped Brazilian businesses and government will recognise Vietnam’s strategic importance, not just economically but also politically and commercially.
According to Ambassador Farani, Vietnam is a peace-loving nation that had fought to protect its sovereignty and independence. Today, Vietnam stands as a strong, sovereign country that has learned from its history and is committed to peace.
Vietnam and Brazil share similar perspectives on global issues. Given its strategic position, Vietnam understands that peace and cooperation are essential for sustainable development.
He remarked that Brazilians and Vietnamese people are both sociable and friendly, and enjoy cultural exchanges. These shared cultural traits further strengthen bilateral ties. Vietnam is engaging with the international community in a balanced and continuous manner, demonstrating resilience and diplomatic flexibility.
Vietnam is entering a new era of national rise, marked by prosperity, innovation, and seamless global integration.
Ambassador Farani believed that this transformation will not only enhance social welfare but also serve as a catalyst for deeper, more effective relations between Vietnam and Brazil./.
