Federal Council approves adoption of joint declaration between Switzerland and Vietnam
Bern, 12.06.2026 — On 12 June 2026 the Federal Council approved the adoption of a joint declaration setting out the foundations of a comprehensive partnership between Switzerland and the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, with a view to strengthening and formalising bilateral relations. The prospect of such a partnership had been the focus of high-level discussions on the margins of the World Economic Forum of 2025. Vietnam is one of Switzerland's priority partners in South East Asia, in accordance with the South East Asia Strategy 2023–26.
With bilateral trade growing steadily and Vietnam's international role gathering momentum, this comprehensive partnership aims to consolidate political dialogue and deepen economic relations in a sustainable and structured manner.
The partnership provides for regular political consultations and high-level exchanges to reinforce the continuity of dialogue and bilateral coordination. It also helps to bolster the framework conditions for economic relations, in particular by supporting efforts to conclude a free trade agreement between EFTA and Vietnam and to modernise the investment protection agreement.
Moreover, the partnership encourages closer cooperation in education, science, research, innovation and technology. It fosters the development of economic partnerships in the sectors of sustainable infrastructure, renewable energy, the digital transition, sustainable finance and intellectual property. Furthermore, it provides for enhanced exchanges between the two countries' civil societies, in accordance with their wishes.
Lastly, the comprehensive partnership strengthens multilateral and regional cooperation, particularly within the UN, ASEAN and the International Organisation of La Francophonie. It reflects the commitment of Switzerland and Vietnam to promoting a rules-based international order, strengthening multilateralism and working together to tackle global challenges, particularly regarding regional security and sustainable development.