Belgian King Philippe expressed interest in Belgian companies participating in Vietnam's wastewater treatment, energy, and rare mineral extraction projects while holding talks with Vietnamese State President Luong Cuong in Hanoi on Tuesday.

The meeting took place after a welcome ceremony hosted by President Cuong and his spouse for Belgian King Philippe and Queen Mathilde, who are paying a state visit to Vietnam from Monday through Friday.

President Cuong described King Philippe’s state visit as a historic milestone, reaffirming Vietnam’s commitment to deepening ties with Belgium, a key EU member.

He thanked the Belgian monarchs for their longstanding support and contributions to Vietnam-Belgium relations.

King Philippe highlighted Vietnam’s growing role in the Asia-Pacific and expressed Belgium’s strong desire to partner with Vietnam in high-potential sectors such as wastewater treatment, renewable energy, and rare earth mining.

Both leaders agreed to enhance diplomatic exchanges, especially at high levels, and to explore new mechanisms for sectoral cooperation.

They also reaffirmed mutual support in multilateral forums like ASEAN-EU, La Francophonie, and the United Nations.

Regarding economic and trade relations, both sides agreed to effectively implement the Vietnam-EU Free Trade Agreement.

President Cuong urged Belgium to expedite the ratification of the Vietnam-EU Investment Protection Agreement to further promote fair and mutually beneficial investment.

The Vietnamese state leader encouraged Belgian businesses to increase investment in Vietnam’s strategic sectors, particularly high-tech, green energy, digital transformation, and infrastructure.

The two leaders also discussed expanding their strategic partnership on agriculture by initiating cooperation programs between Vietnam and Belgium’s regions.

They also discussed expanding cooperation in education, culture, tourism, defense, security, science, and technology, as well as emerging sectors like green technology, artificial intelligence, innovation, high-tech, and semiconductor workforce development.

President Cuong also expressed appreciation for the Belgian Chamber of Representatives' resolution in support of Agent Orange victims in Vietnam.

The top Vietnamese official emphasized the resolution's global significance and called for enhanced international awareness and action on this issue.

Following their meeting, the leaders witnessed the signing of cooperation agreements in culture, commerce, climate change, and Agent Orange victim support.

During the royal couple’s stay in Vietnam, they will engage in various activities in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

The king is also scheduled to visit the War Remnants Museum, meet with Agent Orange victims, and attend various cultural and diplomatic events.

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