SYDNEY —  A seminar linking the central city of Huế, the northern province of Điện Biên, and the southern province of Tây Ninh with Australian partners was held in Sydney on August 14 to help Vietnamese enterprises promote products, explore market trends in Australia, and foster two-way business and investment ties.

Addressing the event, hosted by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Cultural Diplomacy under Việt Nam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Vietnamese Consul General in Sydney Nguyễn Thanh Tùng stressed the role of local-level diplomacy as a flexible and effective way to match the strengths of Vietnamese provinces with foreign partners.

He pledged that the Consulate General will act as a bridge, supporting Australian partners in connecting with Vietnamese localities in mutually beneficial sectors.

Former Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Andrew Goledzinowski highlighted the two countries’ growing trade relationship and forecast further expansion in exports and investment.

He highlighted the importance of investment in Việt Nam, especially in key areas such as technology, education, agriculture, and energy.

Representatives from Huế, Điện Biên and Tây Ninh presented their economic advantages and sought cooperation in sectors ranging from tourism to manufacturing. Australian delegates praised Vietnam’s economic dynamism and strategic location in Southeast Asia.

Alana Kunz from the Australian Trade and Investment Commission underlined Việt Nam’s importance as a political, geographic, and commercial partner, noting opportunities to deepen collaboration in energy and other high-potential industries.

Australian business leaders showed their interest in Vietnam’s energy-saving and manufacturing sectors.

Serge Popovic, Director of C-Coat Insulation Australia, said his company hopes to expand in Việt Nam by partnering with local firms and potentially opening a factory.

Nigel Palmer from Business New South Wales called for greater cooperation in education, science, and innovation, building on longstanding university partnerships.

The event concluded with the signing of a cooperation agreement between Việt Nam’s Phương Nam Panel and Australia’s Pistis Group, marking another step toward stronger local and business ties under the Vietnam–Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. — VNS