EU raises Vietnam ties to highest diplomatic tier during Antonio Costa visit
European Council President Antonio Costa arrives in Hanoi to elevate relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The move targets cooperation in energy.
Insights:
European Council President Antonio Costa antonio costa is scheduled to visit Hanoi on January 25, 2026 (Thursday), to formally elevate the relationship between the European Union 
EUand Vietnam 
VNto the highest possible partnership level. This move establishes a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a designation that officially places the European Unionon the same tier as China 
CN, the United States 
US, and Russia 
RUin the partnership hierarchy of Vietnam. Although this upgrade has been planned for several months, it was previously delayed due to schedule complications.
EUand Vietnam VNto the highest possible partnership level. This move establishes a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, a designation that officially places the European Unionon the same tier as China CN, the United States US, and Russia RUin the partnership hierarchy of Vietnam. Although this upgrade has been planned for several months, it was previously delayed due to schedule complications.
