EU proposes project to strengthen maritime security with ASEAN

Mr. Gunnar Wiegand, Director General in charge of Asia – Pacific of the European Union (EU) Diplomatic Service – Photo: EU Delegation to VIETNAM

According to Gunnar Wiegand, the EU’s director-general in charge of Asia-Pacific, CRIMARIO is a project in which all parties participate, such as coast guards, navies and agencies against piracy or human trafficking. of the EU, will share a platform to exchange information in real time.

“I was in the Philippines two days ago and the Philippines has started updating its officer training program on how to use this software,” Mr. Wiegand said. “We hope that like some countries ASEAN other, like the Philippines, Vietnam will increase the reception of this proposal”.

At a meeting with the press in Hanoi on the evening of April 28, Mr. Gunnar Wiegand shared his views on cooperation with Vietnam in the fields of trade, investment and maritime security.

Commenting on trade and investment relations between Vietnam and the EU, Mr. Gunnar Wiegand said that trade and investment between the two sides is developing in a positive direction.

“Vietnam has become a favorite destination for European investors in the region,” he said.

Mr. Wiegand visited Vietnam on April 27 and 28 to attend the meeting of the EU – Vietnam Joint Committee. This is an event to review and discuss cooperation contents between the EU and Vietnam.

Mr. Wiegand also emphasized the importance of Vietnam as well as ASEAN to the prosperity of the EU.

“If we have learned anything (from the current situation in Europe), it is that we have to significantly reduce and diversify risks, while not being heavily dependent on major partners,” said Mr. Wiegand. speak. “ASEAN partners are key to that diversification.”

Regarding Vietnam’s role in the EU’s Indo-Pacific strategy, Mr. Wiegand said that the Indo-Pacific strategy not only includes defense and security but also includes other contents.

As for investment, Mr. Wiegand said that although it is not possible to announce any specific projects at this stage, it is likely that the EU will soon identify specific investment projects both in green energy and connectivity. digital. And these are the main areas of cooperation with Vietnam under the Indo-Pacific strategy.