Lithuanian, Vietnamese FMs discuss expanding ties

VILNIUS - Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys met his Vietnamese counterpart Le Hoai Trung in Hanoi to discuss closer bilateral ties and expanded cooperation in energy, high technology and trade, Lithuania's foreign ministry said on Tuesday.

Budrys said economic ties between Lithuania and Vietnam were shifting from traditional trade towards high-value partnerships. Lithuanian companies are currently expanding their operations in Vietnam in the electronics, information technology, aviation and food industry sectors.

During the visit, KN Energies signed a memorandum of understanding with Vietnamese company Indel Petro. The companies will cooperate on developing Vietnam's liquefied natural gas import infrastructure. Budrys said the partnership would contribute to strengthening Vietnam's energy security.

The minister also highlighted Lithuania's potential in digital technologies and biometric solutions, as well as opportunities to expand trade in agricultural and food products. Vietnam pledged to accelerate procedures for the export of Lithuanian poultry, fish, feed and other products.

Both sides exchanged views on regional and international security issues. Budrys stressed the importance of a rules-based international order.

During a visit to Vietnam, the minister met Deputy Prime Minister Pham Gia Tuc, emphasising that Lithuania aims to consistently strengthen ties with Southeast Asian nations and views Vietnam as a key regional partner.

"Joining the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation is a significant step in strengthening Lithuania's ties with Southeast Asia, and we see cooperation with Vietnam as an important direction of this policy," Budrys said.

Last week, Lithuania joined the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Treaty of Amity and Cooperation, confirming its commitment to deepening dialogue and practical cooperation with member states.

The meeting focused heavily on prospects for economic and energy cooperation. Budrys said Lithuania sees mutual benefits in developing energy partnerships and is ready to share its expertise. The minister also invited Vietnamese partners to visit the Klaipeda liquefied natural gas terminal to explore cooperation opportunities.

Budrys also noted Vietnam's plans to connect the country's northern and southern power grids and Lithuania's potential contribution to joint projects in this area.

"Lithuania has successfully implemented the strategic synchronisation of its power grids with continental Europe. This was a complex technical and political process that provided us with valuable experience. We see great potential for cooperation with Vietnam in power grid development and strengthening energy resilience," the Lithuanian foreign minister said.

The minister and the Vietnamese deputy prime minister also discussed opportunities for Lithuanian businesses in Vietnam. According to Budrys, Lithuanian companies could contribute to the development of Vietnam's infrastructure sectors and participate in future high-speed rail projects.

"We want to see more Lithuanian companies in Vietnam and more Vietnamese investment and business partners in Lithuania. Our companies offer high-value-added technological solutions that can contribute to Vietnam's rapid economic growth and modernisation," Budrys said.

Lithuania and Vietnam established diplomatic relations in 1992. The Lithuanian embassy accredited to Vietnam is based in Singapore.