EVFTA and EVIPA mark an important step forward in Viet Nam-EU relations

Deputy spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Doan Khac Viet

At the ministry’s regular press conference on May 28, Viet responded to reporters’ queries about the possibility of the Vietnamese National Assembly (NA) ratifying the EVFTA and the EVIPA during its ongoing ninth session.

He noted that following active negotiations and close and effective coordination between Viet Nam and the EU, the European Parliament ratified the two agreements on February 12. Most recently, on March 30, the European Council approved the European Parliament’s ratification, thus completing the EU’s internal legislative procedures regarding the ratification of the EVFTA. 

This agreement, however, will also need to be ratified by parliaments of member states to officially come into force.

The official said that the two deals are expected to bring significant, specific and practical benefits for the economy, businesses and people of Viet Nam and the EU, as well as creating new momentum for the comprehensive cooperative partnership between the two sides, the official stated.

The Vietnamese NA is scheduled to consider and vote on the EVFTA and the EVIPA as part of its law and ordinance building program at the ongoing ninth session, he stated.

* Answering reporters’ questions about the moment when Viet Nam reopens its international travel and trade, Viet affirmed that in the implementation of the Prime Minister’s direction, relevant ministries, sectors and agencies are preparing a proposal to the National Steering Committee for COVID-19 Prevention and Control and the PM to consider and decide on the moment and principles for the gradual loosening of immigration policies and the resumption of a number of air routes, trade, tourism, and investment, in line with the developments of the pandemic in the country and the world. /.

By Vien Nhu