Netherlands seeks to deepen cooperation with Ho Chi Minh City: consul general

During a reception hosted by Nguyen Van Duoc, chairman of the municipal administration, on Monday, the newly appointed consul general expressed appreciation for the municipality’s support in facilitating activities and events held by Dutch businesses there.

Marteaux said she was delighted to take up her post in Ho Chi Minh City, a southern metropolis known for its cultural richness, compassion, hospitality, and dynamic growth.

She expressed hope to enhance bilateral cooperation across various sectors, including trade, investment, logistics, culture, and people-to-people exchanges, during her tenure.

Marteaux announced that in November 2025, the Dutch Minister for Foreign Trade and Development Cooperation, accompanied by a business delegation, will visit Ho Chi Minh City to explore new opportunities for economic collaboration.

She added that the Consulate General plans to invite Dutch football club Ajax Amsterdam to visit the city in 2026.

Marteaux also congratulated the city on its successful administrative merger, implementing the two-tiered government model, and organizing its first Party Congress for the 2025-30 term.

On July 1, Binh Duong and Ba Ria-Vung Tau Provinces were amalgamated into Ho Chi Minh City to make an expanded megacity.

Marteaux said these milestones represent significant progress in public administration reform and reflect the city’s strong vision and leadership.

“I believe these achievements demonstrate Ho Chi Minh City’s rapid development,” she stated. 

"We are eager to continue working together to contribute to its sustainable growth.”

The diplomat added that the city now has great potential for growth in seaport development, semiconductor manufacturing, and climate resilience.

Chairman Duoc noted that the Vietnam–Netherlands comprehensive partnership has become increasingly dynamic and effective.

Ho Chi Minh City now enjoys expanded sister-city ties with several Dutch localities, including Rotterdam, Eindhoven, and Emmen, he added.

Cooperation between the city and Dutch partners focuses on trade, flood management, port development, smart urban planning, innovation, and climate resilience.

He said many major Dutch corporations such as Heineken, De Heus, FrieslandCampina, Royal Haskoning, and BESI have been investing effectively in the city.

The chairman also hailed the Netherlands as Vietnam’s largest trading partner in Europe, with bilateral trade reaching about US$7 billion in the first half of 2025.

On the occasion of Vietnamese Women’s Day (October 20), chairman Duoc extended his best wishes to Marteaux and the female members of her delegation, presenting them with flowers.

He and Marteaux also exchanged personal gifts to commemorate the meeting.