Brussels: A conference dedicated to leveraging the potential of overseas Vietnamese (OV) to strengthen relations between Vietnam and the European Union (EU) took place in Brussels, Belgium, on June 7. This event marked the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two regions. It was organized collaboratively by the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Vietnamese Embassy in Belgium and Luxembourg. The gathering attracted more than 500 OV intellectuals, entrepreneurs, and researchers hailing from 20 European countries, marking a historic first for the Vietnamese community in Europe to engage directly with senior officials from Vietnam.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the conference served as a platform for discussion on how the resources and expertise of the OV community can be harnessed to foster stronger Vietnam-EU relations. Participants exchanged ideas and strategies, focusing on enhancing cooperation in various sectors, including trade, investment, education, and cultural exchange. The dialogue aimed to identify opportunities for collaboration that could benefit both Vietnam and the EU, highlighting the pivotal role of the OV community in this endeavor.

The event underscored the importance of tapping into the OV community’s potential to build bridges between Vietnam and the EU. It provided a unique opportunity for participants to voice their insights and propose initiatives that could facilitate deeper ties between the two regions. The conference concluded with a commitment to continue fostering dialogue and cooperation, ensuring that the OV community remains a vital contributor to the Vietnam-EU relationship.