Vietnamese businesses strengthen connections with the Francophone bloc

On October 14, in Hanoi, the Vietnam Confederation of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) in collaboration with the International Organization of the Francophone (OIF) organized the Vietnam - Francophone Economic Forum. The event brought together representatives of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Cambodia, the Vietnam International Arbitration Center, along with representatives of the Embassies of France, Belgium, Romania and many businesses from Francophone countries.

Delegates attending the forum. Photo: Vu Quang

In his opening speech, VCCI Vice President Nguyen Quang Vinh affirmed that the forum is of great significance in contributing to promoting economic cooperation and spreading the spirit of cultural ties between Vietnam and French-speaking countries.

He emphasized that this is not only an economic event, but also a "cultural bridge" where countries with common languages and humanistic values meet and share aspirations for sustainable and inclusive development.

"Vietnam always considers the Francophone community a reliable partner and close friend on the journey of development and integration. From Africa to Europe, from Southeast Asia to the Mediterranean or the Americas, we share the spirit of solidarity, respect for cultural diversity and cooperation for a humane economy," said Mr. Vinh.

According to the Vice President of VCCI, the world is in a period of many changes but also opening up many new cooperation opportunities. Areas such as digital economy, green transformation, renewable energy, high-tech agriculture , sustainable tourism and innovation are becoming top priorities.

“Vietnam is a dynamic economy, a gateway to Southeast Asia, with a young population, an open market and a transparent and stable investment policy. Meanwhile, Francophone countries in Africa and Europe have rich resources, management experience and a large market network. If connected in the right direction, the two sides can form a new circle of cooperation, where Vietnamese enterprises bring technology and production experience; and Francophone partners bring resources, knowledge and a global network,” said Mr. Vinh.

He also stressed the importance of South-South Cooperation, in which Vietnam and African countries can play a pioneering role. This model helps developing economies together improve their competitiveness, towards self-reliance and sustainable development.

At the forum, Mr. Edgar Doerig, Chief Representative of OIF Asia-Pacific, said that the organization has implemented many programs to promote economic cooperation in the region, including Vietnam. OIF always accompanies embassies, business associations and trade partners to form a dynamic, transparent and sustainable cooperation network.

“Today's forum is not only a place for information exchange, but also the beginning of concrete cooperation projects – the 'seeds of common prosperity',” said Mr. Doerig.

Delegates were also introduced to the Vietnamese Government’s policies and cooperation orientations with Francophone countries, especially in the African region, and discussed the advantages and difficulties in business cooperation such as taxes, customs, and international payments. The event also included B2B meetings and a signing ceremony of a framework agreement between a number of Vietnamese enterprises and Francophone partners.

Currently, the Francophone Community (OIF) has 88 participating countries and territories, including 54 official members, 7 associate members and 27 observers, stretching from Europe through Africa to the Americas and Asia. With a diverse economic structure, Francophone countries have great potential in trade, investment and technology transfer.

According to VCCI, Vietnam's proactive connection with the Francophone community not only helps expand export markets, but also creates new cooperation space in energy, technology and human development.

This forum is expected to be the first step for a period of deeper cooperation between Vietnam and the Francophone bloc, towards building a business community that develops together and shares prosperity.

Source: https://daibieunhandan.vn/doanh-nghiep-viet-nam-tang-cuong-ket-noi-voi-khoi-phap-ngu-10390339.html