Lao Dong respectfully introduces the full text of the Joint Statement on upgrading Vietnam - UK relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
1. After more than 5 decades since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973 and 15 years of implementing the Strategic Partnership framework established in 2010, Vietnam and the UK have built a strong and long-term partnership, based on mutual respect and a common vision for a safe, prosperous and sustainable future.
2. On the occasion of the official visit of Mr. To Lam, General Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam to the UK from October 28 to 30, 2025, at the invitation of Mr. Keir Starmer, Prime Minister of the UK, the two leaders agreed to upgrade bilateral relations to Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, thereby enhancing cooperation on 6 main pillars.
I. Strengthening political, diplomatic, defense and security cooperation
3. The two sides committed to strengthening political trust through maintaining delegation exchanges and high-level contacts across all channels between the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Government, the National Assembly and localities of Vietnam and British authorities; improving the effectiveness of existing bilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Strategic Dialogue and Sea Dialogue, as well as expanding or developing new cooperation mechanisms to further deepen specialized cooperation.
4. The two sides agreed to increase delegation exchanges and cooperation between agencies and specialized committees of the two countries' National Assemblies, groups of friends of lawmakers, female lawmakers, and young lawmakers; increase sharing of experience in legislative supervision and the work of the National Assembly; promote supervision and coordination in supervising the implementation of bilateral cooperation agreements and agreements signed between the two countries; increase consultation, viewpoint sharing and coordination at multilateral parliamentary forums in which both sides participate.
5. In line with the vision of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Vietnam and the UK have agreed to increase diplomatic personnel at representative agencies of each side to promote and expand areas of cooperation, in line with the Vienna Convention on diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations.
The two sides committed to promptly responding to proposals for diplomatic approval of new and existing positions in accordance with the laws of both sides.
At the same time, the two sides also agreed to coordinate towards renovating the British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City according to the provisions of Vietnamese law.
6. The two sides reaffirmed the importance of the multilateral system with the United Nations as the center, and agreed to cooperate closely at multilateral forums and international organizations, including inter-parliamentary forums.
The two sides are committed to playing a bridging role between the UK, ASEAN and member countries; promoting linkages between the UK and the Mekong sub-region; supporting the building of a resilient, creative, dynamic ASEAN Community with people at the center playing a core role in the regional structure.
The two sides also agreed to effectively implement the ASEAN - UK Joint Statement on Connectivity; welcomed the strong implementation of the ASEAN - UK Action Plan for the period 2022-2026, and agreed to soon start the development of the ASEAN - UK Action Plan for the period 2026-2030.
7. Vietnam highly appreciates the role of the UK in the region as well as the UK's contribution to ASEAN and regional cooperation, and supports the UK's increased participation in regional and sub-regional mechanisms and mechanisms led by ASEAN.
8. The two sides welcomed cooperation within the framework of the existing Memorandum of Understanding on Defense Cooperation on areas of mutual interest, including: delegation exchanges, industrial cooperation and defense industry partnership, peacekeeping, raising awareness in the fields of maritime, geospatal and hydrometeorological.
9. The two sides pledged to cooperate in maritime security and share good experiences in maritime awareness initiatives and maritime security strategies. The two sides will continue to facilitate the visit of mutual seaports by navel vessels of the two countries in accordance with the laws of each country, continue to promote cooperation in maritime security and safety, and professional exchanges between the navel forces and coast guard of the two countries.
10. The two sides agreed to expand maritime security cooperation, improve maritime security monitoring and protection capacity through human resource training, technology transfer, and promote multilateral cooperation in maritime security between the National Border Commission, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam and relevant agencies of the UK Government.
11. The two sides will strengthen cooperation between the Ministry of Public Security of Vietnam and the Royal Customs and Taxation Authority (HM Revenue and Customs) and the National Criminal Code Agency of the United Kingdom (NCA); promote cooperation, information exchange and enhance capacity in preventing and combating serious organized crimes, including migration crimes.
12. The two sides agreed to study and promote discussions on sharing criminal records and extradition issues; and exchange information and share experiences related to international standards on cyber security, information security and non-traditional security threats.
13. The two sides will strive to complete internal procedures related to the United Nations Convention on Cybercrime, while promoting cooperation in the fight against cybercrime, with the recognition that the early entry into force of the Convention will contribute to promoting regional and international cooperation in this field.
14. The two sides agreed to establish an enhanced Migration Partnership to reduce illegal migration and accelerate the repatriation of illegal migrants, with new measures including: applying the sharing of biometric data during the verification process, accelerating the document issuance process, committing to strengthen cooperation in dismantling criminal networks related to immigration and enhancing deterrence communication.
II. Strengthening economic, trade, investment and financial cooperation
15. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to continue to strengthen economic cooperation - an important pillar in bilateral relations - to promote free, fair, inclusive and sustainable trade, while supporting a transparent and rule-based international trade system.
The two sides committed to cooperating to promote and enhance trade and investment on the basis of non-discrimination and mutual benefit.
16. Vietnam and the UK will strive to create a fair, transparent and open business environment in both countries, remove barriers to market access and promote smooth two-way trade to help businesses on both sides feel secure in exporting and investing.
17. The two governments will maintain an open and constructive dialogue through the Vietnam - UK Joint Stock Economic and Trade Cooperation Committee (JETCO), a mechanism to remove barriers that businesses of the two countries face in the process of expanding trade and investment activities.
The two sides will actively strengthen cooperation between trade and investment promotion agencies, as well as aim to establish an annual business dialogue mechanism between UK business leaders and Vietnamese government leaders to enhance trade and investment cooperation.
18. The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to close coordination in effectively implementing and reviewing the Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the UK (UKVFTA) as well as the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP).
The cooperation content includes facilitating market access through removing trade barriers for each other's goods and services, protecting intellectual property rights, reducing arising costs, promoting e-commerce, supporting businesses to build a solid supply chain that takes advantage of the strengths of each economy in accordance with the laws of both countries, and encouraging digital trade to adapt to new technologies in the context of an increasingly connected world.
19. The two leaders acknowledged the importance of respecting internationally recognized labor rights based on the International Labor Organization (ILO) Declaration on Principles and Fundamental Rights at the Workplace.
20. As members of the CPTPP Agreement, the two sides will coordinate to promote the Comprehensive Review process and acknowledge the importance of continuing to expand the agreement.
21. The two sides welcomed the signing of the Agreement on mutual Administrative Cooperation and Support in the Customs sector between Vietnam and the UK.
22. The two sides emphasized the importance of maintaining the food supply chain to ensure regional and global food security; agreed to strengthen agricultural trade cooperation in a transparent, clear and effective manner, promoting market access. The two sides agreed to approach future negotiations on agricultural reform within the WTO framework in the spirit of cooperation and construction.
23. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation in developing Vietnam's International Financial Centers in Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang, including through the framework of the Partnership on Vietnam - UK International Financial Centers.
This initiative will build on the UK's experience as a global financial hub and green capital market hub, while deepening economic cooperation between the two countries in the fields of financial services and professional services.
Through the exchange of knowledge, the two sides will share policies, legal approaches and experience in managing the financial system; promote the development of capital markets, financial technology (fintech), green finance and insurance.
24. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation through mobilizing green finance to promote green growth, low emissions, and coordinating expertise sharing and implementing green finance instruments in Vietnam, including through launching the Vietnam - UK Green Finance Partnership.
The two sides are committed to removing institutional barriers so that the private sector plays a central role in promoting green growth and sustainable trade.
25. The two sides agreed to expand cooperation in commercial finance through the design and implementation of transparent, efficient and sustainable commercial financial mechanisms.
Vietnam and the UK will continue to discuss and exchange experiences on the commercial financial registration system and take advantage of the UK Export Finance (UKEF) export credit program, with a total support limit of up to 5 billion pounds for potential investments in Vietnam. The two sides welcomed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation between the Ministry of Finance of Vietnam and UKEF.
III. Strengthening cooperation in science - technology, innovation, digital transformation, health
26. The two sides are committed to strengthening cooperation in the fields of science and technology, innovation and digital transformation, recognizing that these are key drivers for sustainable and inclusive development.
The two sides shared a common vision of the role of science and technology in shaping the future, as well as a commitment to applying new technologies in line with the universal values of peace, freedom and responsibility.
27. The two sides agreed to effectively implement the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the fields of science - technology and innovation in 2025 to enhance cooperation in the fields of health, green growth and breakthrough technology; promote knowledge and experience sharing, training high-quality human resources, and promote research and commercialization of technology through cooperation projects between research institutes, universities, state agencies and enterprises of the two sides.
28. The two sides acknowledged the importance and long-term impact of digital transformation on countries, and agreed to strengthen cooperation in policy making and implementing common initiatives in this field.
29. The two sides are committed to promoting access to quality health care services for people, while building effective, sustainable and resilient healthcare systems.
The two sides agreed to promote expert exchanges, policy dialogues and joint cooperation projects on global health security and antibiotic resistance (AMR), as well as improve the ability to prevent and control non-communicable diseases and population aging issues, based on the One Health approach.
The two sides also agreed to deepen cooperation in the field of digital healthcare, expand cooperation in animal welfare, and expand trade and investment in the field of healthcare and life Sciences, focusing on pharmaceuticals, clinical services, medical technology and health care for consumers.
IV. Cooperation on environment, energy and green transformation
30. The two sides reaffirmed their joint commitment to promoting a clean, equitable and sustainable energy transition to achieve the goal of net zero emissions by 2050, in line with international commitments and development priorities of each country, supported by the ambitious National Self-Determination Contributes (NDCs), which have been adjusted.
Vietnam and the UK will prioritize green energy transition goals, especially through the effective implementation of the Fair Energy Transition Partnership (JETP) framework for Vietnam, with the UK's active participation and coordination in the International Partnership Group (IPG).
Vietnam will continue to improve the legal framework and supporting policy mechanisms to facilitate the mobilization of public and private financial resources to serve climate goals, ensuring transparency and efficiency towards sustainable development.
31. The two sides agreed to establish the Vietnam - UK Clean Energy Partnership between the Ministry of Industry and Trade of Vietnam and relevant agencies of the UK, to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon and resilient economy in both countries;
Support the implementation of projects within the framework of the Fair Energy Transition Partnership (JETP); expand technical cooperation in areas such as renewable energy, gradually reducing coal power, and upgrading power grid infrastructure; create opportunities for UK businesses to invest in offshore wind power and clean energy in Vietnam, contributing to promoting green industrial growth in both countries;
Remove legal barriers and regulations that hinder the green transformation process, in accordance with the legal processes of Vietnam and the UK; strengthen inter-Ministry coordination to effectively implement common green transformation goals; at the same time, promote green and inclusive jobs, sustainable urban development through green transport and energy saving.
32. Recognizing the economic, social, environmental and migration impacts caused by climate change, Vietnam and the UK agreed to promote the Memorandum of Understanding on Climate Partnership between the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment of Vietnam and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the UK's common prosperity and development bloc (FCDO) to strengthen cooperation in climate risk management;
Support the integration of climate change adaptation goals into industry development planning and mobilize finance to minimize natural disaster risks through the Natural Disaster Risk Reduction Partnership;
Promote cooperation in solutions based on nature and biodiversity conservation, as well as develop Vietnam's forest carbon market towards effective implementation.
33. The two countries agreed to strengthen technical cooperation and Official Development Assistance (ODA) within the framework of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
In parallel with Vietnam's implementation of necessary policy measures, the UK is committed to providing focused technical assistance to Vietnam through ODA initiatives in line with the green development priorities of both countries, as well as in the fields of clean energy transition, green finance, carbon markets, urban development, transportation and green infrastructure, cross-border water resource management, marine environmental protection, climate change adaptation agriculture and sustainable fisheries.
V. Strengthening cooperation in education, culture, sports, tourism, people-to-people exchanges, equal rights and other fields
34. The two sides are committed to protecting and ensuring the safety of tourists and residents of Vietnam and the UK in each country, through compliance with commitments within the framework of the Convention on Consular Relations, in accordance with national law.
35. Vietnam and the UK affirmed that education and training are a pillar of sustainable growth and human development; welcomed the signing of the Protocol and agreed to continue to coordinate towards extending the Memorandum of Understanding between the two Ministries of Education in the coming time.
The two sides agreed to promote academic exchanges and encourage the establishment of new linkage programs, enhance cooperation between higher education institutions, vocational training and secondary schools through exchanges of lecturers, researchers and students, especially in areas such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals and aerospace.
36. The UK affirms that it will continue to support Vietnam in promoting English teaching and training, aiming to make English the second language in Vietnamese schools by 2035 and enhance talent development through cooperation between Vietnamese educational institutions, training institutions and schools.
Vietnam welcomes UK educational institutions to establish branches and operate effectively in Vietnam, and at the same time encourages the enhancement of transnational educational cooperation, aiming to make Vietnam a new international education center.
37. The two sides agreed to encourage cooperation in the fields of culture, sports, tourism, and communication; coordinate the organization of cultural, sports, and artistic promotion and exchange activities in each country; facilitate agencies, associations, and tourism businesses of both sides to learn about cooperation opportunities, exchange information, and experience in each other's strengths; and welcome the contributions and roles of the two peoples in promoting people-to-people exchanges and friendship between the two peoples.
38. The two leaders acknowledged the British Council's important contributions to bilateral relations in areas such as cultural and educational exchanges. The two sides will cooperate so that the British Council can continue to promote its contributions in accordance with the provisions of Vietnamese law.
39. The two sides emphasized the importance of cooperation between localities; encouraged localities of the two countries to increase exchanges and share experiences in sustainable development, building smart cities, green transformation and innovation.
Vietnam and the UK have officially launched the City-City Partnership between Ho Chi Minh City and Liverpool Urban Area, demonstrating the increasingly deep friendship between the two countries and the cities of the two countries.
40. Vietnam and the UK both acknowledge the valuable contributions of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to socio-economic development, as well as the role of these organizations in supporting the efforts of the two countries to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
41. The two sides reaffirmed their common commitment to promoting and protecting human rights in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law. The two countries will continue a sincere, frank and constructive dialogue through multilateral mechanisms, including the United Nations Human Rights Council and the Unanimous passed passed passed Review (UPR).
The two sides will cooperate in implementing international human rights treaties to which they are members, and share good experiences in anti-discrimination laws.
Vietnam and the UK will cooperate to promote the building of an inclusive society, promoting and ensuring equal opportunities and respecting the human rights of all people, without any form of discrimination.
VI. Strengthening coordination on regional and international issues
42. The two sides are committed to maintaining and promoting peace, stability, security and prosperity globally, in accordance with the United Nations Charter and international law, and sharing a common vision of a fair international order based on international law, respect for independence, sovereignty and territorial integrity.
43. The two sides agreed to strengthen cooperation between the UK and the Mekong Subregion, especially with the Mekong River Commission, in the fields of sustainable development, climate change adaptation, sustainable water resource management and green finance.
44. The two countries expressed deep concern about complicated developments in global geopolitical hot spots; called for an end to violence, protecting civilians, ensuring unimpeded humanitarian access in accordance with international law; supported international efforts to promote dialogue and reconciliation, seeking peaceful, comprehensive and sustainable solutions to crises; emphasized the importance of achieving a comprehensive, fair and sustainable peace in accordance with international law and on the basis of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter.
45. The two sides emphasized the importance of achieving a comprehensive, fair and sustainable peace in Ukraine, in accordance with international law and on the basis of the fundamental principles of the United Nations Charter. Vietnam and the UK reaffirmed the importance of respecting the independence, territorial integrity and sovereignty of all countries.
46. Vietnam and the UK emphasized the importance of all stakeholders in the Middle East complying with the provisions of the ceasefire agreement; called on all parties to exercise maximum restraint and condemned all attacks on civilians and civil infrastructure.
The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to support the two-state solution as the only way to ensure a just and sustainable peace for both Israel and Palestine, as well as maintain stability in the region.
47. The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific region; emphasized the importance of maintaining peace, stability, security, safety, freedom of navigation and aviation in seas and oceans, peaceful settlement of disputes on the basis of international law, the United Nations Charter and the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS 1982); called on countries in the region to fully and effectively implement the entire Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea in 2002 (DOC) and support current efforts to achieve a practical and substantive Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC) in accordance with international law and UNCLOS 1982.
48. Based on the content of the Joint Statement, the two countries' foreign ministries are responsible for coordinating with relevant ministries and branches to develop a common action plan to implement and realize the above goals.
