Vietnam, Malaysia PMs Discuss Regional And Global Issues, Including US Tariffs

Vietnam and Malaysia Strengthen Ties through Phone Talks

Bilateral Relations and Regional Developments

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held phone talks with his Malaysian counterpart Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on Sunday, April 6, at the request of the Malaysian side. The discussion centered on bilateral relations and recent regional and international developments, as reported by Vietnam News Agency (VNA).

ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting

During the call, Anwar informed Chinh that Malaysia, as ASEAN Chair for 2025, will host the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting on Thursday, April 10. The meeting aims to assess the current situation and explore measures to strengthen intra-bloc connectivity and cooperation in the wake of the United States’ newly announced tariff policy.

Vietnam-US Trade Relations

Chinh highlighted Vietnam’s efforts in discussions with the US, including the recent phone conversation between Party General Secretary To Lam and US President Donald Trump on April 4. The discussion focused on resolving obstacles and promoting economic and trade cooperation towards fair and sustainable trade that balances the interests of all parties. Vietnam is considering the possibility of reducing import tariffs to zero percent for goods from the North American country, while requesting similar treatment for Vietnamese exports to the US market. The leaders also discussed the potential signing of a bilateral agreement to formalise these commitments, with Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc planning to travel to the US for specific discussions on this matter.

ASEAN’s Role in Addressing the Myanmar Issue

Anwar briefed Chinh on Malaysia’s efforts, as ASEAN Chair, to address the Myanmar issue, including the visit of Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to Myanmar on Saturday, April 5. He emphasized his country’s commitment to promoting dialogue and ensuring unity in resolving the issue. Chinh commended Malaysia’s efforts, particularly its effective support, strong sense of responsibility, and active role in coordinating ASEAN’s joint actions to help Myanmar recover from the recent earthquake.

Vietnam’s Assistance to Myanmar

Chinh shared information about Vietnam’s swift assistance to Myanmar following the earthquake, including the deployment of over 100 rescue personnel, the delivery of medical equipment and supplies, and the provision of US$300,000 in aid. He affirmed that Vietnam will continue to actively support Malaysia and other ASEAN members and stands ready to serve as an intermediary in joint efforts to promote dialogue and national reconciliation in Myanmar.

Strengthening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership

The two leaders agreed to continue discussions, enhance trust, and coordinate measures to further deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership for the peace, stability, and prosperity of both countries, the region, and the world.

Conclusion

The phone talks between the two prime ministers demonstrate the commitment of Vietnam and Malaysia to strengthening their bilateral relations and cooperation on regional and international issues. The discussions on trade and economic cooperation, as well as the ASEAN Chair’s efforts to address the Myanmar issue, highlight the importance of regional collaboration and dialogue in promoting peace and stability.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What was the purpose of the phone talks between the Vietnamese and Malaysian prime ministers?

   The phone talks centered on bilateral relations and recent regional and international developments.

2. What is the goal of the ASEAN Economic Ministers’ Meeting hosted by Malaysia?

   The meeting aims to assess the current situation and explore measures to strengthen intra-bloc connectivity and cooperation in the wake of the United States’ newly announced tariff policy.

3. What is Vietnam’s stance on the US tariff policy?

   Vietnam is considering the possibility of reducing import tariffs to zero percent for goods from the North American country, while requesting similar treatment for Vietnamese exports to the US market.

4. What is Malaysia’s role in addressing the Myanmar issue as ASEAN Chair?

   Malaysia has been actively promoting dialogue and ensuring unity in resolving the issue, with the visit of Malaysian Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan to Myanmar on Saturday, April 5.

5. What is Vietnam’s assistance to Myanmar following the earthquake?

   Vietnam has deployed over 100 rescue personnel, delivered medical equipment and supplies, and provided US$300,000 in aid.