Swedish minister begins visit to Vietnam to boost green, digital cooperation

Minister Dousa is expected to highlight the strong collaboration between the two countries in healthcare, including a visit to the Vietnam National Children’s Hospital and participation in the Sweden-Vietnam Infrastructure Investment Dialogue, according to the Swedish Embassy in Hanoi.

Vietnam, one of the fastest-growing economies in Southeast Asia and an important trading partner of Sweden and the European Union, plays an increasingly strategic role in global value chains.

For Swedish firms engaged in global production and exports, Vietnam offers both a vital market and a manufacturing base.

“I see great potential to expand cooperation between our two countries,” Minister Dousa said.

“This visit is an opportunity to discuss Swedish solutions in future infrastructure investment and to promote digital and green transformation in Vietnam.”

During his visit, Minister Dousa is scheduled to meet Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and other high-level government officials.

He will also engage with Swedish companies operating in Vietnam, and hold talks with representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the Ministry of Science and Technology, and the Ministry of Construction.

Topics on the agenda include bilateral trade, economic cooperation, improving the business environment for Swedish firms, and the full implementation of the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement.

Discussions will also cover 5G technology, green transition, and digital infrastructure.

Minister Dousa will deliver the opening speech at the ‘Enhancing Vietnam-Sweden Healthcare Cooperation’ conference, co-hosted by Vietnam’s Ministry of Health and Team Sweden.

Team Sweden is a network of public organizations, agencies, and companies that promote Swedish exports and investments in Sweden.

The conference is expected to gather leading Swedish companies like AstraZeneca, Getinge, and Ericsson.

The Swedish delegation will also visit the National Children’s Hospital to meet its leadership and explore potential future partnerships in pediatric care, medical research, and innovation.

Furthermore, Minister Dousa and Swedish industry representatives will join the Sweden-Vietnam Infrastructure Investment Dialogue, which will spotlight green and digital development, mining, energy, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors.

Sweden was the first Western country to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam in 1969.

From 1973 to 2013, it provided around US$3 billion in aid (in 2024 constant prices) for Vietnam’s development.

Key projects included the Bai Bang Paper Mill in northern Phu Tho Province, the National Children’s Hospital in Hanoi, the Vietnam-Sweden Hospital in northern Quang Ninh Province, and various programs in journalism training, civil society development, anti-corruption, and cultural industries such as film and music.