Vietnam News Today (Apr. 18): P4G Summit in Vietnam - Beacon of Hope for Global Climate Action

Vietnam News Today (Apr. 18): Vietnam and China foster comprehensive defense cooperation; P4G Summit in Vietnam - Beacon of hope for global climate action; Vietnam seeks additional UN assistance in realizing green growth goals; South Korea regards Vietnam as key partner in Indo-Pacific strategy.
April 18, 2025 | 07:22
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Vietnam News Today (Apr. 18) notable headlines

Vietnam and China foster comprehensive defense cooperation

P4G Summit in Vietnam - Beacon of hope for global climate action: Indian scholar

Vietnam seeks additional UN assistance in realizing green growth goals

South Korea regards Vietnam as key partner in Indo-Pacific strategy

New Zealand Governor-General hopes for stronger ties with Vietnam

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Chinese defense chief Dong Jun arrives in Vietnam for border friendship exchange

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General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defence of Vietnam, and Senior Lieutenant General Dong Jun, Minister of National Defence of China, hold talks in Lang Son province on April 17 á part of the ninth Vietnam - China Border Defense Friendship Exchange.
General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense of Vietnam, and Senior Lieutenant General Dong Jun, Minister of National Defense of China, hold talks in Lang Son province on April 17 á part of the ninth Vietnam - China Border Defense Friendship Exchange.

Vietnam and China foster comprehensive defense cooperation

General Phan Van Giang, Minister of National Defense of Vietnam, and Senior Lieutenant General Dong Jun, Minister of National Defense of China, reached agreements on key areas for comprehensive defense cooperation between the two countries during their talks in Lang Son province on April 17.

The talks were held as part of the ninth Vietnam–China Border Defense Friendship Exchange taking place in Lang Son (Vietnam) and Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region (China) on April 16-17.

Giang affirmed that prior activities, such as medical treatment and free medicine distribution to people in border regions, exchanges between localities, citizens, and students, as well as young officer exchanges, have significantly contributed to the realization of the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Cultural Exchange.

These activities serve as a solid foundation for maintaining stable borders and promoting the development of bilateral relations, he said, adding that the joint patrols in the Gulf of Tonkin between the Vietnamese and Chinese navies marked a significant milestone in defense cooperation.

Giang maintained that defense cooperation between the two sides has been promoted and achieved practical results in recent times. Key areas of progress include high-level delegations, enhanced cooperation mechanisms, and closer military cooperation along the Vietnam-China border. Border management forces from both sides have continued to actively cooperate in combating crime and ensuring border security.

Furthermore, maritime border cooperation has expanded, with the navy and coast guard of both countries continuing to implement effective bilateral cooperation mechanisms. Cooperation on political work, military exchanges, and defense industry has been strengthened.

Giang reiterated Vietnam’s deep gratitude and appreciation for China’s valuable support during Vietnam’s past struggle for independence as well as its current national development. In early April 2025, Vietnam’s Ministry of Defense completed the restoration of Chinese war cemeteries in Vietnam, cited VOV.

Building on the shared understanding of senior leaders from both countries, especially following the state visit to Vietnam by Party General Secretary and President Xi Jinping, the two Ministers agreed to maintain the exchange of delegations at all levels, the continuation of effective bilateral cooperation mechanisms, and increased collaboration in border management, naval and coast guard cooperation, and defense industry development.

During the discussions, the two sides also shared their perspectives on global and regional security issues of mutual concern.

Giang reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development, emphasizing the country’s commitment to multilateralizing and diversifying international relations. Vietnam seeks to befriend all nations, especially neighbours, and remains steadfast in its “Four No’s” defense policy: no military alliances, no alignment with one country to counter another, no foreign military bases on Vietnamese soil, and no use or threat of force in international relations.

Regarding the East Sea (known internationally as South China Sea), Vietnam remains committed to resolving the issue peacefully, adhering to the common understanding between the two countries’ senior leaders. Vietnam also abides by international law, including the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the East Sea (DOC). Vietnam hopes that China and ASEAN will soon sign a substantive and effective Code of Conduct in the East Sea (COC).

As part of the discussions, Giang extended a formal invitation to Dong to attend the 50th Anniversary of the Liberation of South Vietnam and National Reunification (April 30, 1975 - 2025) in Ho Chi Minh City, and invited a Chinese military delegation to participate in the military parade to be held during the commemorations.

For his part, Dong thanked Giang and the Ministry of Defense of Vietnam for their excellent organisation of activities, contributing to the success of the ninth joint Border Defense Friendship Exchange.

He emphasized that the exchange, which followed Xi Jinping’s state visit to Vietnam, reflects the strong will of the two Parties, governments, and peoples to further strengthen the traditional friendship and enhance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the two Ministers witnessed the signing of a twin-town agreement between the Border guard post of the Huu Nghi (Friendship) International Border Gate of Lang Son province and the Pingxiang border guard meeting stations of Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region.

P4G Summit in Vietnam - Beacon of hope for global climate action: Indian scholar

Prof. Reena Marwah from Delhi University has hailed Vietnam’s hosting of the fourth Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit from April 14-17 as a timely and strategic move for both Vietnam and the global community.

In her recent analysis, Marwah stressed that the move signals the country’s proactive leadership at a time when climate commitments from major powers are wavering. By hosting the summit, Vietnam is positioning itself as a pioneer in advancing sustainable development.

The P4G Summit is more than a diplomatic gathering; it is a powerful call to action aimed at mobilising resources, strengthening global partnerships, and accelerating an equitable green transition, Marwah wrote. The event comes at a critical juncture when financing climate action, particularly in developing nations, faces significant challenges, making Vietnam’s role a beacon of hope.

At a high-level discussion of the P4G Summit (Photo: VNA)
At a high-level discussion of the P4G Summit (Photo: VNA)

The P4G platform focuses on market-based solutions to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), with key emphasis on climate adaptation, food system, water security, energy, and circular economy. For Vietnam, the summit offers a strategic opportunity to attract vital resources like financing, technology, and expertise while deepening ties with P4G member countries, including Denmark, the Republic of Korea, the Netherlands, and nations across Africa, Asia, and Latin America.

The significance of the 2025 P4G Summit is further amplified by its timing, as developing nations like India and Vietnam face the dual challenge of sustaining economic growth while adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change, often with limited domestic resources. In such context, the P4G model, which promotes public-private partnerships, becomes an increasingly essential mechanism to mobilize innovation and finance, complementing traditional funding channels that often fall short.

Marwah hailed the event as a unique opportunity to foster more inclusive and equitable global partnerships. Key allies such as the European Union (EU), Japan, and India, with their technological expertise and strong investment capacity, are critical to Vietnam’s green transition, according to VNA.

The summit, she said, serves as an ideal platform for Vietnam to deliver a clear and compelling message: the country is ready for a new wave of green investment, ranging from renewable energy infrastructure and sustainable agriculture to electric transportation and circular economy models.

Vietnam is pioneering a new model of cooperation, one grounded in mutual respect, shared responsibility, and genuine commitment to climate action. In this model, a country’s value lies not in its GDP but in its concrete climate actions and collaborative spirit. Vietnam’s vision of fair and inclusive multilateralism could chart a new path - much-needed, and hopeful - for the global climate order, she concluded.

Vietnam seeks additional UN assistance in realizing green growth goals

President Luong Cuong called on the United Nations to provide continued support for Vietnam’s sustainable development, particularly in achieving its green growth and climate resilience goals, during a meeting with UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in Hanoi on April 17.

The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 4th Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 Summit (P4G), the first high-level multilateral forum on green and sustainable development ever hosted by Vietnam.

Cuong emphasized the significance of the summit, underscoring the country’s strong commitment to green transformation and international climate action.

He welcomed Mohammed’s presence as a demonstration of the UN’s support and reiterated Vietnam’s backing of multilateralism with the UN at its core, reported VOV.

Vietnamese President Luong Cuong (R) receives UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in Hanoi on April 17. (Photo: VNA)
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong (R) receives UN Deputy Secretary-General Amina Mohammed in Hanoi on April 17. (Photo: VNA)

“Vietnam remains steadfast in its foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, and active participation in addressing global challenges,” he said.

Looking ahead, the President requested that the UN assist in advancing several priority areas for Vietnam’s green agenda, including the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), promotion of the rule of law, digital transformation, and climate change adaptation.

He also reflected on key milestones in the shared history of Vietnam and the United Nations over the past 48 years. With 2025 marking 80 years since both Vietnam’s independence and the UN’s founding, as well as 50 years of Vietnam’s reunification, he acknowledged the UN’s important role in supporting the country’s post-war recovery, economic reform, and international integration.

Mohammed for her part expressed admiration for Vietnam’s development progress and reaffirmed the UN’s strong partnership with the country. She pledged the UN’s ongoing collaboration, especially in implementing global agendas such as the Summit of the Future, COP30, and the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development.

She also noted the UN’s interest in sharing Vietnam’s successful development experience with other countries, while emphasizing the importance of ensuring green growth strategies are inclusive and people-centered.

Both host and guest agreed to deepen Vietnam - UN cooperation in key areas, including green innovation, sustainable development, and increased youth and women’s participation. They also exchanged views on global challenges and the need to strengthen multilateral frameworks to uphold the founding values of the United Nations.

South Korea regards Vietnam as key partner in Indo-Pacific strategy

South Korea regards Vietnam a key partner not only in its policy towards ASEAN but also within its broader Indo-Pacific strategy, and wishes to strengthen cooperation with the country across all sectors, said Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul.

Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul made the above statement while meeting with Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on the sidelines of the 4th Partnership for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit in Ha Noi on April 16.

Cho, who is on an official visit to Vietnam also pledged that his country will effectively implement high-level agreements between the two countries.He appreciated the Vietnamese Government's support for the Korean community in Vietnam.

Pham for his part highlighted the remarkable progress in the Vietnam-South Korea Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

He suggested the two countries strengthen high-level delegation exchanges and contacts in a flexible manner, cited VGP.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) shakes hands with South Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul, Ha Noi, April 16, 2025. Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (R) shakes hands with South Korean Minister of Foreign Affairs Cho Tae-yul, Ha Noi, April 16, 2025. Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac

Pham took the occasion to seek South Korea's support for high-quality human resources training and concessional loans for strategic infrastructure projects, including the Vietnam-Laos rail line.

The Prime Minister also called on South Korea to increase technology transfer, particularly core and source technologies to Vietnam, and support Vietnam in developing its cultural and entertainment industries, affirming commitment to addressing challenges faced by Korean businesses investing in Vietnam.

New Zealand Governor-General hopes for stronger ties with Vietnam

Receiving Ambassador-designate of Vietnam to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang in Wellington on April 16, the Governor-General suggested the two sides promote exchanges between businesses and residents, while strengthening coordination and cooperation at regional and international multilateral forums.

She congratulated Ambassador Giang on his new role, which comes at a meaningful time as Vietnam and New Zealand celebrate 50 years of diplomatic ties (1975–2025). She also underscored the significance of Prime Minister Christopher Luxon’s official visit to Vietnam in February, during which the two countries upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The Governor-General pledged her support for Ambassador Giang to fulfill his tasks and voiced her belief that he would make positive contributions to the friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries, VNA reported.

Ambassador-designate of Vietnam to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang presents the letter of credence to Governor-General of New Zealand Cindy Kiro. (Photo: VNA)
Ambassador-designate of Vietnam to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang presents the letter of credence to Governor-General of New Zealand Cindy Kiro. (Photo: VNA)

Ambassador Giang, for his part, affirmed his determination to actively promote the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, contributing to opening a new chapter of stronger, broader, and more comprehensive ties, both bilaterally and multilaterally.

The Ambassador also extended his appreciation to the New Zealand Government for its support to the Vietnamese community and expressed his hope that such favorable conditions will continue, further reinforcing the close and friendly ties between the two nations.

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