Vietnam and the EU upgrade ties as Trump tariffs reshape global trade [View all]
Source: Associated Press
Updated 10:31 PM MST, January 28, 2026
HANOI, Vietnam (AP) Vietnam and the European Union on Thursday upgraded ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, Vietnams highest diplomatic level, as both recalibrate trade amid disruptions to global finance driven by U.S. tariff pressure.
The upgrade places the EU on the same diplomatic footing as the United States, China and Russia and was announced during a visit to Hanoi by European Council President Antonio Costa.
At a moment when the international rules-based order is under threat from multiple sides, we need to stand side by side as reliable and predictable partners, Costa said, adding that the partnership is about developing spheres of shared prosperity.
Vietnams President Luong Cuong called the move a historic milestone.
Read more: https://apnews.com/article/vietnam-european-union-strategic-partnership-trade-e1476edcca25f10635b029d506e66dea