Vietnamese PM to visit Seoul to boost economic ties

By Kim Dong-young Posted : June 27, 2024, 15:09 Updated : June 27, 2024, 15:11
This undated photo shows Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right).  AP-Yonhap
SEOUL, June 27 (AJU PRESS) - Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh will arrive in Seoul on Sunday for a four-day visit aimed at strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries, a Seoul official said.

Chinh is scheduled to hold a meeting with his Korean counterpart, Han Duck-soo, at the government complex in Seoul on Tuesday and attend a welcome dinner hosted by Han at the prime minister's official residence, according to the Korean Prime Minister's Office.

Chinh will become the first high-level Vietnamese official to visit Seoul since the two countries elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (CSP) in December 2022, commemorating 30 years of diplomatic ties.

On Monday, Chinh plans to attend the Korea-Vietnam Business Forum, organized by the Korea Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI) in Seoul. The forum will gather about 300 Korean participants, including executives from major conglomerates such as Samsung Electronics, SK, Hyundai Motor, LG and POSCO. 

The conference will include the signing of various memoranda of understanding and presentations on topics such as digital financial cooperation and global supply chains.

Hyosung Group Vice Chairman Cho Hyun-sang, who heads the Korea-Vietnam Economic Cooperation Committee, will chair the event and is expected to discuss cooperation measures with Chinh.

Sources said there is a possibility that the premier will meet with Samsung Chairman Lee Jae-yong and visit a Samsung plant during his trip. He may also meet with CEO-level officials from SK Group.

South Korea is the largest foreign direct investor in Vietnam as of the end of 2023, with investments valued at $86 billion. Vietnam is Korea's third-largest trading partner, with bilateral trade volume reaching $76 billion in 2023.