Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh proposed Belgium to expedite the ratification of the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) and to push the European Commission to remove its yellow card warning on Vietnam’s seafood exports, during a meeting with visiting Belgian King Philippe in Hanoi on April 1.

The PM suggested the two countries to promote cooperation in areas of Belgium's strength and Vietnam’s need, particularly high technology, circular economy, strategic infrastructure and human resources training.

For his part, King Philippe recognized Vietnam’s strategic significance in the region and highlighted Belgium’s interest in enhancing cooperation in education, health care, seaport development, renewable energy, science-technology, and innovation.

He also underscored Belgium’s support for businesses of both sides in bolstering investment and trade activities in respective countries.