During a meeting in Copenhagen, Việt Nam and Denmark have elevated their diplomatic ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, marking a new era of collaboration in areas such as trade, renewable energy, and sustainable development. This announcement was made by Vietnamese Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, as both countries anticipate celebrating 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.
The upgraded partnership aims to bolster political connections and foster long-term cooperation across vital economic and strategic sectors. Denmark now joins the ranks of only two European Union member states to have established such a partnership with Việt Nam.
Central to this new relationship is trade and investment. Both leaders underscored the importance of enhancing the EU–Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement, improving market access, and encouraging businesses’ active participation in international supply chains. Denmark expressed a keen interest in expanding its investments in Việt Nam, focusing on high technology, environmentally friendly industries, and high-value-added projects. Tô Lâm acknowledged the contributions of Danish companies, such as LEGO and Maersk, and highlighted the need for strong investment promotion and policy dialogue to realize practical projects.
Renewable energy and climate action are also priorities under this partnership. Denmark has committed to sharing its expertise and technology with Việt Nam to aid in the transition to cleaner energy and meet the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Notable areas of collaboration include offshore wind power and the Just Energy Transition Partnership, as well as expanding cooperation in seaports and sustainable infrastructure.
The governments have also agreed to deepen cooperation in technology, innovation, and education, focusing on fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. This includes fostering partnerships among universities, research institutes, and businesses, while promoting skills development and training for professionals. Further collaboration is anticipated in healthcare, smart urban development, and cultural exchanges.
On the international front, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and international law, emphasizing cooperation through the United Nations and regional entities like ASEAN. Việt Nam has expressed its readiness to enhance collaboration between Denmark and ASEAN. The meeting concluded with the signing of cooperation documents, and Frederiksen accepted Tô Lâm’s invitation to visit Việt Nam, highlighting their commitment to translating this upgraded partnership into tangible outcomes.