HANOI, April 9, 2025 — In a high-level meeting held in Hanoi on Tuesday, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez expressed a mutual desire to strengthen bilateral relations and elevate them to a comprehensive strategic partnership. The visit marks a significant moment in Vietnam-Spain diplomacy, as both nations navigate a shifting global economic landscape, heightened by rising protectionism and the implementation of sweeping U.S. tariffs.
Strategic Dialogue in a Time of Global Tension
The meeting took place against the backdrop of increasing trade barriers, most notably the recent U.S. decision to impose a 46% tariff on Vietnamese exports and a 25% tariff on goods from the European Union. These measures, part of President Donald Trump’s intensified “America First” economic policy, have sparked concern across Asia and Europe, threatening global supply chains and multilateral trade frameworks.
During the joint press conference, Prime Minister Chinh emphasized Vietnam’s desire to build stronger strategic ties with Spain and the broader European Union. “The more difficult and challenging the world becomes, the more we must cooperate and promote multilateralism,” Chinh stated, adding that open dialogue and global collaboration were key to economic resilience and peace.
Prime Minister Sanchez echoed these sentiments, voicing strong support for a multilateral, rules-based global order. “Trade wars help no one; they harm everyone,” Sanchez said. “Spain is committed to fostering open trade, not just within Europe but with growing partners like Vietnam.”
Expanding Economic and Infrastructure Cooperation
One of the key areas of discussion was infrastructure development, particularly in the field of transportation. Vietnam is currently pursuing major infrastructure upgrades, including an ambitious plan to build a 1,541-kilometer high-speed railway linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Spain, known for its advanced rail systems and engineering expertise, has expressed a strong interest in collaborating on this project.
“We see great potential in working together on sustainable infrastructure,” Sanchez said. “Spain is ready to contribute our knowledge, technology, and investment in Vietnam’s transportation sector.”
Beyond railways, both sides also discussed cooperation in green energy, education, tourism, and healthcare — sectors where Spain holds experience and Vietnam is actively seeking foreign expertise and capital.
Reinforcing Vietnam–EU Relations
Spain’s outreach to Vietnam is seen as part of a broader European strategy to strengthen engagement with Southeast Asia. Vietnam, as one of the fastest-growing economies in the region and a signatory of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), is viewed as a strategic bridge between Europe and Asia.
Sanchez’s visit follows his recent stop in China, where he participated in diplomatic talks aimed at reaffirming EU-China cooperation despite trade tensions with the U.S. The back-to-back visits to Beijing and Hanoi highlight Spain’s efforts to assert a more prominent role in the Asia-Pacific, especially as global supply chains pivot toward the region.
Vietnam, in turn, hopes to diversify its foreign relations and avoid overreliance on any single market. Strengthening ties with Spain and other EU members may help Hanoi counterbalance economic pressure from Washington and secure stable, long-term trade routes.
Looking Ahead
The meeting concluded with both leaders pledging to enhance people-to-people exchanges, boost tourism between the two nations, and create favorable conditions for businesses from both sides. Specific agreements are expected to follow in the coming months, potentially including new investment frameworks and cooperation agreements in transport and education.
As the world faces increasingly complex geopolitical and economic challenges, Vietnam and Spain’s commitment to multilateralism and strategic cooperation offers a hopeful signal. It underscores the potential for like-minded nations to come together and shape a more balanced and inclusive global economy.
