Togo and Vietnam are set to enhance their bilateral relations as they approach the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, established on February 8, 1975. The milestone has sparked renewed efforts to strengthen collaboration across key sectors, with both nations expressing a shared commitment to fostering mutual growth.
During his visit to Vietnam, Togolese Minister of Foreign Affairs Robert Dussey delivered New Year greetings and an invitation from President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé for Vietnamese President Vo Van Cuong to visit Togo. Minister Dussey emphasized Togo’s admiration for Vietnam, describing the Southeast Asian nation as a top priority partner in Asia. He expressed interest in learning from Vietnam’s development achievements and pledged to deepen cooperation in trade, agriculture, economic development, and seaport infrastructure.
Minister Dussey reiterated Togo’s desire to collaborate more closely with Vietnamese ministries and agencies to enhance bilateral efforts. He also highlighted shared goals of national development, social stability, and improving citizens’ quality of life as central to the partnership.
In response, President Cuong acknowledged Togo’s invitation and extended an invitation for President Gnassingbé to visit Vietnam. He reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to strengthening ties with African nations, including Togo, and emphasized the need to address the modest level of cooperation that has characterized the bilateral relationship.
President Cuong proposed increasing high-level exchanges to build political trust and foster a solid foundation for collaboration. He stressed the importance of mutual support in international forums, including the United Nations, Non-Aligned Movement, International Organisation of La Francophonie, and the African Union.
Economic cooperation took center stage, with both sides identifying trade, investment, agriculture, mining, and telecommunications as priority areas. President Cuong encouraged Togo to share information about investment opportunities and adopt favorable policies for Vietnamese businesses. He also highlighted Vietnam’s readiness to support Togo through agricultural initiatives, including technology transfer, knowledge sharing, and expert exchanges.
As Togo and Vietnam prepare to mark five decades of diplomatic relations, their leaders appear determined to unlock the untapped potential of this partnership, paving the way for a more robust and dynamic collaboration in the years ahead.