Swiss President Guy Parmelin is set to visit Vietnam on October 17–18, responding to an invitation from Vietnamese President and Communist Party General Secretary To Lam. This visit coincides with the lead-up to the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations, which will be celebrated in 2026. The relationship between Vietnam and Switzerland was elevated to a comprehensive partnership in January 2025, paving the way for enhanced cooperation across various sectors.
During his visit, President Parmelin will engage in talks with President To Lam and meet with other key Vietnamese leaders, including Prime Minister Le Minh Hung and National Assembly President Tran Thanh Man. These discussions will primarily focus on strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new avenues for cooperation.
Economic ties are a crucial component of the partnership between Vietnam and Switzerland. Last year, bilateral trade surpassed US$1 billion, with Switzerland emerging as one of the major European investors in Vietnam. The visit is expected to further bolster these economic connections and promote additional trade and investment opportunities.
Beyond economic collaboration, Vietnam and Switzerland also cooperate in fields such as education, vocational training, labor, science, technology, and innovation. President Parmelin’s visit aims to enhance diplomatic engagement and solidify partnerships in these areas, reflecting the comprehensive nature of their bilateral relationship.