By: Maritime fair trade

Saudi Arabia has identified Vietnam as a strategic transshipment gateway for goods destined for the Middle East, highlighting the growing importance of maritime connectivity between the two regions. This strategic assessment was conveyed by Saudi Deputy Minister for Transport and Logistics Services, Mr. Musa bin Ahmed Al-Barqi, during a working session with Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of Construction, Mr. Nguyen Xuan Sang. The discussions centered on enhancing bilateral cooperation in the transport sector, reflecting a shared ambition to deepen economic ties.

A key outcome of the meeting was the mutual aspiration to quickly finalize and sign a comprehensive bilateral transport agreement. A critical component of this proposed agreement is the mutual recognition of seafarers' certificates of competency, which must align with the international STCW Convention. This measure is viewed as a foundational step for bolstering maritime links, as it would facilitate the seamless employment of qualified seafarers from both nations on respective vessels.

Deputy Minister Al-Barqi underscored the necessity for swift action, urging the rapid implementation of targeted cooperation programs. He explicitly recognized Vietnam's substantial potential, pointing to its robust transport infrastructure and proven logistics capabilities as key advantages. These strengths are seen as positioning Vietnam as a dynamic market that is successfully attracting significant international investment, making it an ideal partner.

The Saudi Deputy Minister reaffirmed his country's commitment to nurturing its partnership with Vietnam, which it considers an essential ally in Southeast Asia. This high-level endorsement signals a strategic intent to elevate the relationship beyond simple trade, building on the notable advancements already made in recent years in the realms of economics, investment, and commerce.

In response, Vietnam's Deputy Minister Sang endorsed the proposal to establish a joint working group dedicated to facilitating collaboration in the transport sector. He echoed the urgency of the situation, emphasizing the importance of expediting negotiations on the seafarer certificate agreement to finalize the framework for a near-future signing.

The meetings reflect a clear, mutual recognition of the strategic benefits of closer cooperation. For Saudi Arabia, Vietnam offers a strategic logistics hub to optimize its supply chains to the Middle East. For Vietnam, the partnership represents an opportunity to expand its role in global maritime logistics and attract further investment from a key Gulf economy.

In summary, the proactive approach from both nations, focused on timely agreements and specific initiatives like the joint working group, illustrates a concerted effort to build a stronger, more operational bilateral relationship. The collaboration is poised to strengthen maritime connectivity, create new trade corridors, and solidify a strategic partnership between Southeast Asia and the Middle East.