In a bid to tackle workforce shortages and bolster economic growth, Greece is seeking to enhance its labor cooperation with Vietnam and other countries in the ASEAN region. This initiative was highlighted by the Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Athanasios Plevris, during a recent meeting held in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia. Plevris underscored the importance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements to protect the rights of both workers and employers, while also aiding Greece’s efforts to curb irregular migration.
The Greek minister’s comments come in the wake of the European Union’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum, emphasizing the growing significance of effective migration management. Plevris pointed out that such agreements could play a crucial role in this context. He urged relevant Greek authorities to continue negotiations with Vietnam and other nations in the ASEAN community to expedite the formalization of labor cooperation agreements.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương expressed optimism regarding the progress of discussions on labor cooperation with Greece. She highlighted that these talks have advanced since previous engagements with the Greek minister. Ambassador Hương conveyed her hope that a bilateral labor agreement would soon be finalized, which would not only provide more job opportunities for Vietnamese workers but also strengthen the diplomatic ties between Greece and Vietnam.
The proposal for enhanced labor cooperation was positively received by Greece, with authorities directed to push forward with negotiations. This move aims to streamline the process of signing labor cooperation agreements with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries, reflecting Greece’s commitment to addressing its labor market needs through international collaboration.
Currently, Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum reports that approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers hold valid residence permits in the country. This statistic underscores the existing workforce connection between the two countries, which both parties are eager to expand upon through formalized agreements.