Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hosted Vietnam’s General Secretary Tô Lâm at Downing Street on 29 October 2025, marking a new chapter in the growing relationship between the United Kingdom and Vietnam. The meeting celebrated the launch of the UK-Vietnam Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a framework that reinforces shared goals across trade, security, migration, education, and climate cooperation.
Deeper Cooperation Through the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership
The two leaders welcomed the new strategic framework as a symbol of mutual trust and ambition to strengthen bilateral ties. Both nations committed to advancing cooperation in trade and regional stability while enhancing collaboration in critical areas such as climate action and education. The partnership is designed to promote sustainable growth and prosperity, benefitting citizens in both countries.
The Prime Minister emphasised that the partnership will allow both sides to work more effectively on issues of global importance, including security in the Indo-Pacific region. The agreement also reflects a shared belief in open markets and fair competition as pathways to long-term stability and development.
Enhanced Migration Partnership Signed
A significant highlight of the meeting was the announcement of the Enhanced Migration Partnership between the UK and Vietnam. The agreement, finalised by the Home Secretary and her Vietnamese counterpart, aims to streamline the process for returning individuals who have no legal right to stay in the UK while disrupting criminal networks engaged in human trafficking and illegal migration.
The Prime Minister underlined that the agreement demonstrates a united effort to ensure safe and legal migration, protect vulnerable individuals, and strengthen both nations’ border security. General Secretary Tô Lâm expressed Vietnam’s readiness to cooperate on these issues, reaffirming a shared commitment to tackling transnational crime.
Trade and Economic Growth Opportunities
Trade featured prominently in the discussions, with both leaders recognising the potential to expand economic cooperation through existing frameworks such as the UK-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement and the Comprehensive and Progressive Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). They agreed to work closely to unlock new opportunities for businesses and workers, ensuring that economic growth benefits communities in both countries.
The meeting highlighted how greater market access, investment, and innovation could drive employment and boost living standards, reflecting the two countries’ shared commitment to inclusive growth.
Commitment to Regional Security and Stability
Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific, stressing the importance of peace and adherence to international law. Prime Minister Starmer mentioned the recent visit of HMS Richmond to the region as part of the UK’s Carrier Strike Group deployment, symbolising Britain’s continued support for maritime security and regional partnerships.
The leaders also discussed protecting visitors and residents under the principles of the Vienna Convention and national laws, ensuring that both countries uphold their international obligations. The Prime Minister took the opportunity to address ongoing consular matters, reflecting the UK’s commitment to supporting its citizens abroad.
Looking Ahead
Concluding their discussions, both leaders expressed optimism about the future of the UK-Vietnam relationship. They looked forward to continued dialogue and future meetings that will build on the progress made under this strengthened partnership. With shared priorities and aligned interests, the UK and Vietnam are poised to deepen their cooperation across key global challenges.
The meeting at Downing Street underscored the determination of both governments to transform diplomatic goodwill into meaningful collaboration — one that contributes to regional peace, economic resilience, and shared prosperity.