Việt Nam and Denmark have taken a significant step in their diplomatic relations by establishing a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. This move, announced during talks between Vietnamese Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, marks a new phase of cooperation between the two nations, which will celebrate 55 years of diplomatic relations in 2026.
The upgraded partnership aims to enhance political ties and broaden long-term collaboration in key economic and strategic areas such as trade, investment, renewable energy, technology, and sustainable development. Denmark becomes only the second European Union member state to enter such a partnership with Việt Nam.
A central focus of the new relationship is an increase in trade and investment, with both leaders emphasizing the importance of the EU–Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement. They aim to improve market access and encourage greater participation in international supply chains. Denmark is particularly interested in investing in Việt Nam’s high-tech and environmentally friendly industries. Vietnamese leaders, including Tô Lâm, have welcomed contributions from Danish companies like LEGO, Maersk, Pandora, Carlsberg, and Vestas, while calling for more robust investment promotion and policy dialogues.
Renewable energy and sustainable development are set to be major priorities under the new partnership. Denmark has pledged to share its expertise in cleaner energy technologies to aid Việt Nam’s transition towards net-zero emissions by 2050. This includes support in mobilizing green finance and developing large-scale renewable projects, especially offshore wind power. Cooperation will also extend to areas like seaports, logistics, green maritime transport, and sustainable infrastructure.
The two countries agreed to bolster cooperation in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, focusing on fields such as artificial intelligence, quantum technology, and biotechnology. Efforts will be made to foster partnerships among universities, research institutions, and businesses, as well as to promote skills development and the training of highly qualified professionals.
On the international stage, both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to multilateralism and international law. They expressed support for closer cooperation through the United Nations and emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Việt Nam also expressed readiness to facilitate enhanced cooperation between Denmark and ASEAN.
The leaders concluded by instructing relevant ministries and agencies to implement the commitments set forth under the new partnership framework. They also observed the exchange of cooperation documents between organizations and businesses from both countries, underscoring their commitment to translating the upgraded partnership into practical outcomes across shared priorities.