The statement was made during a phone conversation between the two leaders on the afternoon of December 12.

Both prime ministers welcomed the positive progress in the Vietnam–Malaysia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and agreed to soon formalize the action plan for 2026–2030. This roadmap will outline specific directions for cooperation across key sectors.

The two countries aim to increase bilateral trade to USD 20 billion, with a focus on balancing trade flows.

Prime Minister Chinh proposed boosting cooperation in several areas, including rice trade, maritime and ocean affairs  -  particularly oil and gas collaboration between Vietnam's PetroVietnam and Malaysia’s Petronas, joint fisheries efforts, and combating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

On regional and international matters, both leaders expressed serious concern about the escalating situation between Cambodia and Thailand. They called on all parties to exercise restraint, refrain from the use of force, and resolve differences through peaceful dialogue.

They also reaffirmed their commitment to working closely with other ASEAN member states to strengthen regional solidarity, maintain ASEAN’s centrality, and leverage ASEAN mechanisms to promote dialogue and sustain peace, stability, and cooperation in the region.

Earlier in the day, Vietnamese Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung held a phone call with his Malaysian counterpart, Dato’ Seri Utama Haji Mohamad Bin Haji Hasan.

The ministers noted significant progress in bilateral relations and strong cooperation between their foreign ministries.

They agreed to intensify efforts to advance the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and to organize the 8th Joint Committee meeting soon, where the 2026–2030 action plan would be officially adopted.

Economic collaboration remained a focal point, with both sides aiming to reach USD 20 billion in balanced trade. They also pledged to enhance cooperation in fisheries and finalize a new memorandum of understanding on agriculture, fisheries, and food security.

Malaysia’s foreign minister reiterated support for Vietnam in developing its Halal industry and combating IUU fishing.

Minister Le Hoai Trung also congratulated Malaysia on its successful ASEAN chairmanship in 2025, highlighting the implementation of key initiatives and regional issue resolutions.

The two diplomats discussed recent regional and global developments, especially the growing tension between Cambodia and Thailand. They shared a strong concern about the situation and agreed to work closely with other ASEAN members to uphold internal unity and ASEAN centrality.

They emphasized the importance of using ASEAN mechanisms to encourage restraint, avoid the use of force, and resolve disputes peacefully  -  thereby contributing to a stable, secure, and cooperative environment in the region and beyond.

Tran Thuong