Vietnam-Spain Strategic Partnership
- Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is scheduled to make an official visit to Vietnam from April 8-10,marking a notable step in strengthening relations between the two nations.
- This visit represents the first by a Spanish prime Minister since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1977.
- The Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez officially visits Vietnam, and the economic and trade relations between the two countries are expected to be further activated, and the economic...
spain’s prime Minister to Visit Vietnam, Strengthening Bilateral ties
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Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez is scheduled to make an official visit to Vietnam from April 8-10,marking a notable step in strengthening relations between the two nations.
This visit represents the first by a Spanish prime Minister since the establishment of diplomatic ties in 1977. It also marks the first high-level visit from Spain in 19 years, following King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia’s visit in 2006.
The Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez officially visits Vietnam, and the economic and trade relations between the two countries are expected to be further activated, and the economic and trade relations between the two countries are expected to be more powerful, positive and dynamic.
The visit underscores spain’s commitment to closer cooperation with Vietnam, affirming vietnam’s growing importance in the region and globally. It is anticipated to foster positive and dynamic changes in economic and trade relations.
Strategic Partnership Growth
Trade between Vietnam and Spain dates back to the 15th century, with Spanish merchants establishing a presence at Hoi An Port.Diplomatic relations were formally established on May 23, 1977.
over the past 48 years, friendship and cooperation have steadily grown, expanding across various sectors. Bilateral relations have been significantly strengthened since the establishment of a strategic partnership.
In December 2009, then-President Nguyen Minh Triet visited Spain, solidifying the foundation for enhanced cooperation.
Spain holds the distinction of being Vietnam’s first strategic partner within the European Union.
Regular delegation exchanges and cooperation have fostered mutual trust and understanding between the two countries.
Notable visits to Spain from Vietnam include Prime Minister Phan Van Khai in October 2001, President Nguyen Minh Triet in December 2009, and numerous visits by National assembly and goverment officials in subsequent years.Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh met with Pedro Sanchez at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Nov. 19, 2024.
on the Spanish side, visits to Vietnam include Foreign Minister Carlos Westendorp in February 1996, Queen Sofia in February 2002, King Juan Carlos I and Queen sofia in February 2006, and Foreign Minister Diego Martinez Vallio in April 2024 for political consultations.
During thier meeting at the G20 summit,Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to its strategic partnership with Spain and expressed gratitude for Spain’s support in overcoming the aftermath of Typhoon Yagi.
Prime Minister Chinh proposed increased delegation exchanges and cooperation in areas such as transportation infrastructure, renewable energy, science and technology, and agriculture.
Prime minister Sanchez agreed with the proposals, suggesting cooperation in infrastructure projects like subways and urban railways. Both leaders emphasized the importance of cultural exchanges, sports, and tourism, as well as mutual support in multilateral forums.
The two countries maintain a joint committee on economic, trade, and investment cooperation, co-chaired by the Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
Vietnam and spain actively support each othre within multilateral mechanisms, especially within the United Nations and ASEAN-EU frameworks.
Prospects for Economic and Trade Cooperation
Since establishing strategic cooperation, economic and trade relations have significantly expanded. Spain is Vietnam’s fifth-largest trade partner in the EU, while Vietnam is Spain’s largest trade partner in ASEAN.
From 2019 to 2024, trade between the two countries grew at an average rate of 8.7% per year.
Trade is projected to reach $4.47 billion in 2024, a 20% increase compared to 2023. the import-export structures of Vietnam and Spain are complementary rather than competitive.
Vietnam primarily exports textiles, steel, footwear, telephones and parts, coffee, machinery, computers, and electronics to Spain. Spain exports pharmaceuticals, machinery, chemicals, raw material plastics, and animal feed to Vietnam.
the Vietnam-EU Free trade Agreement (EVFTA), in effect since August 2020, has been effectively implemented by both sides. Spain ratified the Vietnam-EU Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA) in January 2022.
According to Vietnam’s Ambassador to Spain, Doan Thanh Song, Spain views Vietnam as a promising market for business.
The establishment of a spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hanoi demonstrates Spain’s commitment to strengthening economic ties with Vietnam.
As of January 2025, Spain has 97 projects in Vietnam with a total capital of $143.9 million, ranking 46th among countries investing in Vietnam. Investments are concentrated in processing and manufacturing (56.1%) and accommodation and catering services (32.8%).
Ambassador Song noted Spain’s recent investments in renewable energy, wind energy, solar energy, and digitalization, aligning with vietnam’s goal of attracting high-tech foreign direct investment (FDI).
Vietnam has invested $64.2 million in science and technology research and processing operations in Spain, with three investment projects.
Vietnam has consistently been a priority in Spain’s development cooperation policy.
Spain has pledged over $1 billion in ODA loans and non-refundable aid to Vietnam through six cooperative programs focused on poverty reduction, gender equality, medical care, and clean water supply, contributing significantly to Vietnam’s economic and social development.
Ambassador Doan Thanh Song emphasized the complementary nature of the Spanish and Vietnamese economies.
Vietnam and Spain Eye Deeper Cooperation Amid Growing Ties
HANOI, Vietnam – Vietnam and Spain are strengthening their strategic partnership, seeking to expand cooperation across various sectors, according to officials. The move comes as both nations commemorate the 15th anniversary of their strategic partnership (2009-2024) and look ahead to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Economic Opportunities and Growth
Spain, the EU’s fourth-largest economy, sees potential for collaboration with Vietnam in areas where Spain holds significant strengths. These include high-speed rail infrastructure and renewable energy development.
Spain’s first solar power plant was built in Baria Bung Taewoo Conda, a 140,000 euros -based “Vietnamese solar power development” project, among the 1 million euros subsidies provided by the Spanish government as a refundable subsidy. (Photo: Ngok Ha/ VNA)
Vietnam, rich in solar and wind resources, can benefit from Spain’s expertise in renewable energy deployment. Spain aims to transition to a coal-free power sector by 2025 and produce over half its energy from renewable sources. The largest EU hydrogen plant is located in Puertollano, Spain.
spain’s agri-food industry, the second-largest fruit and vegetable producer in the EU, presents another avenue for cooperation. Industrialization, large-scale production, and modernization characterize this sector.
Cultural and Educational Exchanges
Both countries prioritize language training, supported by the Servantes Chamber of Commerce and the Spanish International Development Cooperation (AECID). Spain dispatches instructors to Vietnam annually and has provided approximately 285 scholarships to Vietnamese students between 1998 and 2018.
Cultural, sports, and tourism cooperation is also encouraged.Agreements in these areas have led to delegation exchanges, cultural events, film festivals, exhibitions, and tourism promotion activities.
In 2010, Spain contributed to the upgrade of the Hanoi People’s Committee building, incorporating Spanish architectural elements, and participated in the ceramic road project, marking the 1000th anniversary of Tang Long Hanoi.
Vietnam currently offers a 45-day visa exemption to Spanish citizens. in 2024, Vietnam welcomed 91,400 spanish tourists.
People-to-People Connections
Queen Sofia, during a 2009 meeting with then-President Nguyen Min Triet, expressed her family’s affection for Vietnam, stating, “My family loves Vietnam with all my heart.”
Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and art are well-received in Spain. Approximately 1,000 Vietnamese children have been adopted by Spanish families, preserving their cultural identity while integrating into their new communities.
The Vietnam-Spanish Friendship Association,established in 2004,promotes collaboration,particularly in culture and education. Its chairman, Nguyen Duk Roy, was awarded the first-class civil service medal by the King of Spain in 2020 for his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.
Around 5,000 Vietnamese people reside in Spain, primarily engaged in small businesses. The Spanish Vietnam community Contact Committee was established in January 2023.
Looking Ahead
Doan Song, Vietnam’s ambassador to Spain, emphasized the shared interests and strategic importance of the partnership. Spain’s influence in Europe, Latin America, and North Africa positions it as a key partner for Vietnam, enhancing Vietnam’s role and reputation in these regions.
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez’s recent visit to Vietnam underscores Spain’s commitment to strengthening cooperation. The visit, coinciding with the anniversaries, aims to boost diplomatic, economic, and trade relations.
Sanchez noted Vietnam’s attractiveness to foreign investment, highlighting the EU free trade agreement as a catalyst for spanish companies to pursue business opportunities in Vietnam.
During the visit, both sides are expected to discuss measures to promote cooperation in areas such as politics, diplomacy, trade, investment, science, technology, infrastructure, urban transport, enduring development, and renewable energy. Several agreements are anticipated to be signed.
(Vietnam+)
Vietnam and spain Forge Deeper Partnership, Eyeing Expanded Cooperation
HANOI, Vietnam – Vietnam and Spain are solidifying their strategic partnership, with a focus on broadening collaboration across various sectors. This comes as both nations commemorate the 15th anniversary of their strategic partnership (2009-2024) and prepare for the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027.
Key areas for Growth
Discussions between leaders have highlighted key areas for growth and cooperation.
- Transportation Infrastructure: Increased delegation exchanges are being proposed.
- Renewable Energy: Cooperation in this sector is a high priority.
- Science and technology: Collaboration is planned.
- Agriculture: Further cooperation is anticipated.
- Cultural Exchanges, Sports, and Tourism: Enhanced cooperation is encouraged.
- Multilateral Forums: Mutual support within these platforms is deemed crucial.
Economic and Trade relations
Economic and trade relations have significantly expanded as the establishment of strategic cooperation. Spain is Vietnam’s fifth-largest trade partner in the EU, and Vietnam is Spain’s largest trade partner in ASEAN.
From 2019 to 2024, trade between the two countries grew at an average rate of 8.7% per year, with projections reaching $4.47 billion in 2024, a 20% increase compared to 2023. The import-export structures of Vietnam and Spain are complementary.
Key trade items between Vietnam and Spain include:
- Vietnam Exports: Textiles, steel, footwear, telephones and parts, coffee, machinery, computers, and electronics.
- Spain Exports: Pharmaceuticals, machinery, chemicals, raw material plastics, and animal feed.
The Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), in effect as August 2020, has been effectively implemented by both sides. Spain ratified the Vietnam-EU Investment protection Agreement (EVIPA) in January 2022.
As of January 2025, Spain has 97 projects in Vietnam with a total capital of $143.9 million, ranking 46th among countries investing in Vietnam. Investments are concentrated in processing and manufacturing (56.1%) and accommodation and catering services (32.8%). Recent investments in renewable energy align with vietnam’s goal of attracting high-tech foreign direct investment (FDI).
Vietnam has invested $64.2 million in science and technology research and processing operations in spain, with three investment projects.
Collaboration in Key Sectors
Spain, the EU’s fourth-largest economy, sees potential for collaboration with Vietnam in areas where Spain holds significant strengths, including high-speed rail infrastructure and renewable energy development.
Vietnam,rich in solar and wind resources,can benefit from Spain’s expertise in renewable energy deployment. Spain aims to transition to a coal-free power sector by 2025 and produce over half its energy from renewable sources. The largest EU hydrogen plant is located in Puertollano, Spain.
Spain’s agri-food industry,the second-largest fruit and vegetable producer in the EU,presents another avenue for cooperation. Industrialization, large-scale production, and modernization are key characteristics of this sector.
cultural and Educational Exchanges
Both countries prioritize language training, supported by the Servantes Chamber of Commerce and the Spanish International Development Cooperation (AECID). Spain dispatches instructors to Vietnam annually and has provided approximately 285 scholarships to Vietnamese students between 1998 and 2018.
Cultural, sports, and tourism cooperation is also encouraged. Agreements in these areas have led to delegation exchanges, cultural events, film festivals, exhibitions, and tourism promotion activities.
In 2010, Spain contributed to the upgrade of the Hanoi People’s Committee building, incorporating Spanish architectural elements, and participated in the ceramic road project, marking the 1000th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi.
Vietnam currently offers a 45-day visa exemption to Spanish citizens. in 2024, Vietnam welcomed 91,400 Spanish tourists.
People-to-People Connections
Vietnamese culture, cuisine, and art are well-received in Spain. Approximately 1,000 Vietnamese children have been adopted by Spanish families, preserving their cultural identity while integrating into their new communities.
The Vietnam-Spanish Friendship Association, established in 2004, promotes collaboration, notably in culture and education. Its chairman, Nguyen Duk Roy, was awarded the first-class civil service medal by the king of Spain in 2020 for his contributions to strengthening bilateral relations.
Around 5,000 Vietnamese people reside in Spain, primarily engaged in small businesses. The Spanish Vietnam community contact Committee was established in January 2023.
Looking to the Future
Spain’s influence in Europe, Latin America, and North Africa positions it as a key partner for Vietnam, enhancing Vietnam’s role and reputation in these regions.
During the visit, both sides are expected to discuss measures to promote cooperation in areas such as politics, diplomacy, trade, investment, science, technology, infrastructure, urban transport, enduring development, and renewable energy. Several agreements are anticipated to be signed.