In a bid to tackle workforce shortages and foster economic growth, Greece is actively pursuing enhanced labour cooperation with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Athanasios Plevris, highlighted this strategic initiative during discussions in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. He underscored the importance of early bilateral labour agreements as a means to safeguard the rights of both workers and employers, while also aiding Greece in its efforts to curb irregular migration. This move aligns with the European Union’s recent implementation of the new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which has made migration management a top priority.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương expressed optimism about the progress of labour cooperation talks with Greece, building on earlier discussions with Minister Plevris. She conveyed hope that the two countries would soon finalize a bilateral labour agreement, which would not only create more job opportunities for Vietnamese workers but also strengthen the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Greece.
Plevris responded positively to the proposal and instructed relevant Greek authorities to expedite negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN nations. The goal is to quickly establish labour cooperation agreements that would mutually benefit the involved countries.
As part of its ongoing efforts to enhance labour relations, Greece currently hosts approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers with valid residence permits. This statistic underscores the existing framework of cooperation and the potential for further expansion through formal agreements.