Meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the 47th ASEAN Summit and related summits in Malaysia on Monday, Costa agreed with PM Chinh’s proposed priorities and underscored the EU’s appreciation for Vietnam’s growing regional and international role, as well as its strong economic performance.

He welcomed ongoing discussions toward elevating Vietnam-EU relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Exchanging views on regional and international issues, the European Council President emphasized the EU’s priority to deepen ties with ASEAN and other countries in the region.

He also commended Vietnam’s constructive approach to peace and security issues and its consistent adherence to the principles of international law amid an increasingly uncertain global environment.

For his part, PM Chinh affirmed that the EU remains one of Vietnam’s most important and long-standing partners.

Highlighting the most pressing issue in bilateral relations, the cabinet leader reiterated Vietnam’s strong political commitment and decisive actions to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

He urged the European Commission (EC) to soon send an inspection mission to Vietnam to assess progress and consider removing the “yellow card” warning imposed on Vietnamese seafood exports.

Chinh noted that he personally chairs weekly meetings with ministries, agencies, and localities to review progress on IUU compliance.

He added that Vietnam is actively cooperating with other countries, including ASEAN members, to promote sustainable fisheries, enhance the capacity of fishermen and businesses to adapt to responsible fishing standards, and support fishermen in transitioning from fishing to sustainable aquaculture.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister proposed the two sides enhance high-level exchanges, agree on a roadmap to upgrade their bilateral relationship, and expand cooperation in trade, investment, science, technology, and innovation, making these key pillars of their partnership.

He emphasized the need to fully harness opportunities from the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), work closely to address business challenges, and called on the EU to encourage its remaining member states to ratify the EU-Vietnam Investment Protection Agreement (EVIPA).

Chinh also invited more European investment in Vietnam’s key sectors such as infrastructure, renewable energy, and green transition.

He said he highly values the EU’s role in the global arena and expressed Vietnam’s support for the EU’s Global Gateway Initiative. The PM affirmed that Vietnam will continue to serve as a gateway connecting the EU and Southeast Asia, thereby helping strengthen ASEAN-EU relations.