Vietnam is accelerating the expansion of international cooperation in the fields of financial technology, blockchain, and digital assets – a move considered consistent with the global trend of the digital economy. On May 11, 2026, at the Party Central Headquarters, General Secretary and President To Lam held a high-level telephone conversation with the President of the Swiss Confederation, Guy Parmelin, opening up many new expectations for Vietnam-Switzerland cooperation in the era of digital transformation and global finance.
The phone call took place as the two countries celebrated the 55th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, marking a long and stable period of cooperation between Vietnam and Switzerland. Vietnamese leaders congratulated President Guy Parmelin on his re-election for a second term, and emphasized that Vietnam has always considered Switzerland one of its top important partners in Europe. Both sides affirmed their determination to further deepen the Comprehensive Partnership framework established in January 2025 – a crucial foundation for expanding cooperation into new technology areas.
During the exchange, the Vietnamese side Chia its vision for national development by 2045, aiming to become a high-income developed country, maintaining a growth rate above 10%, and pursuing an independent, self-reliant, multilateral, and diversified foreign policy. In this strategy, digital transformation and digital finance are XEM as new growth drivers. Therefore, promoting cooperation with Switzerland – a globally renowned country in fintech, banking, and financial management – is considered a strategic move.
A key highlight of the phone call was the emphasis on the need to expedite the completion of negotiations and the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between Vietnam and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA), of which Switzerland is a key member. This agreement is expected to provide a significant boost to trade, investment, and high-tech Capital flows between the two regions, especially in the context of the ongoing restructuring of global supply chain following a period of global economic upheaval.
The most discussed areas were fintech, sustainable finance, blockchain, and digital assets. Vietnamese leaders requested Switzerland to Chia its experience in building international financial centers, developing fintech ecosystems, and establishing a legal framework for digital assets. These are areas where Switzerland has been ahead for many years, with its renowned "Crypto Valleys" attracting hundreds of blockchain companies and global fintech investment funds.
Notably, Vietnam's emphasis on blockchain and digital assets in high-level discussions indicates a clearer policy direction. In recent years, Vietnam has consistently appeared in international reports as one of the world's leading countries in cryptocurrency adoption and blockchain application. Regulatory bodies are also promoting the development of a legal framework (sandbox) for fintech, digital payments, and digital assets, paving the way for the development of the digital economy.
Beyond economic and technological cooperation, the two leaders also emphasized the importance of coordination within multilateral mechanisms, particularly at the United Nations. Both sides committed to strengthening coordination in addressing global issues based on international law, contributing to maintaining peace, stability, and sustainable development.
One humanitarian aspect mentioned was the desire for Switzerland to continue creating favorable conditions for the Vietnamese community living and working in the country to settle down, integrate, and contribute to bilateral relations. The Vietnamese community in Switzerland is increasingly playing an important bridging Vai in cooperation in education, technology, and innovation.
