Vietnam, RoK seek to boost cooperation on energy security

 Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh received Choi Young Sam, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea (RoK) to Vietnam, in Hanoi on April 1 to discuss measures to promote the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and cooperation on energy security between the two countries.

At the meeting, the PM appreciated the efforts and positive contributions of the ambassador in coordinating to promote practical and effective development of bilateral relations across multiple fields.

He expressed his pleasure that Vietnam–RoK relations are at their best, with political trust continuously strengthened, especially following the high-level visits in 2025 by Party General Secretary To Lam, State President Luong Cuong, and RoK National Assembly Speaker Woo Won Shik.

Regarding Vietnam’s development orientation following the 14th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the Prime Minister stated that Vietnam aims to achieve an average GDP growth rate of 10% or more per year during 2026–2030.

To realise the goal of becoming a developed, high-income country by 2045, Vietnam is focusing on removing institutional bottlenecks, developing the private economy, and identifying breakthroughs in science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation, he said.

To further promote the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, the Government leader suggested that both sides work to increase bilateral trade to reach 100 billion USD as soon as possible and aim for 150 billion USD by 2030 in a balanced manner, while encouraging RoK businesses to expand investment in semiconductors, core technologies, renewable energy, and others.

In particular, given the complex security situation in the Middle East, the Prime Minister said the two countries should closely cooperate to address current challenges, especially ensuring national energy security, maintaining economic development, and stabilising the livelihoods of the people.

On this occasion, he also urged the RoK to share experience in energy management, the development of alternative energy sources, and to encourage increased investment in Vietnam’s key energy infrastructure projects, enhancing the country’s self-strengthening and economic resilience to external shocks.

The RoK ambassador expressed strong agreement with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s proposals and pledged to make every effort to coordinate with Vietnamese ministries and agencies to effectively implement high-level leadership agreements.

The diplomat stated that he would actively communicate with the RoK Government and energy corporations to strengthen cooperation with Vietnam on energy security, while reaffirming his commitment to continue serving as a bridge to promote deep, practical, and effective bilateral relations./.