Việt Nam and Denmark have taken a significant step in boosting their diplomatic and economic ties by elevating their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Announced during discussions between Vietnamese Party General Secretary and State President Tô Lâm and Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen in Copenhagen, this agreement marks a new phase of cooperation between the two nations as they approach the 55th anniversary of their diplomatic relations in 2026.
The new partnership aims to fortify political connections and extend long-term collaboration across key sectors such as trade, investment, renewable energy, technology, and sustainable development. Denmark is now the second European Union member to establish such a partnership with Việt Nam, underscoring the significance of this bilateral relationship.
Trade and investment were identified as central components of the upgraded relationship, with both leaders agreeing to enhance the EU–Việt Nam Free Trade Agreement’s implementation. Denmark is keen to expand its investment in Việt Nam, particularly in areas like high technology and environmentally friendly industries. Tô Lâm acknowledged the contributions of Danish firms such as LEGO, Maersk, and Vestas, and emphasized the need for stronger investment promotion and policy dialogue to translate commitments into actionable projects.
Renewable energy and sustainable development remain top priorities within the partnership, with Denmark pledging to support Việt Nam’s transition to cleaner energy sources and its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The countries plan to collaborate on large-scale renewable energy projects, particularly offshore wind power, and to support initiatives like the Just Energy Transition Partnership.
The agreement also includes a focus on enhancing cooperation in science, technology, and education. Both governments aim to foster partnerships among universities, research institutes, and businesses, particularly in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and biotechnology. Further collaboration is planned in healthcare, smart urban development, and cultural exchanges.
On the international stage, Tô Lâm and Frederiksen reiterated their support for multilateralism and international law, emphasizing the importance of strengthening ties between the European Union and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). Việt Nam expressed its readiness to assist in enhancing cooperation between Denmark and ASEAN.
To ensure the successful implementation of their commitments, the leaders directed relevant ministries and agencies to execute the agreements under the new partnership framework. The announcement concluded with Frederiksen accepting an invitation to visit Việt Nam, solidifying the commitment to practical outcomes from their upgraded partnership.