In a bid to tackle workforce shortages and bolster economic growth, Greece is actively pursuing stronger labor cooperation with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. This initiative was highlighted by Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum Athanasios Plevris during a recent meeting in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia.
Minister Plevris underscored the importance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements, which he believes are crucial for safeguarding the rights of both workers and employers. Such measures are also seen as pivotal in supporting Greece’s broader efforts to curb irregular migration. The minister pointed out that managing migration has become a growing priority, especially in light of the European Union’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum.
During the discussions, Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương remarked on the progress made since previous dialogues with the Greek minister. She expressed optimism that a bilateral labor agreement between Vietnam and Greece would soon be finalized. Ambassador Hương emphasized that such an agreement would not only create more job opportunities for Vietnamese workers but also reinforce the diplomatic and economic ties between the two nations.
In response to Vietnam’s proposal, Minister Plevris expressed his support and instructed the relevant authorities to continue negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN nations. The goal is to expedite the signing of labor cooperation agreements, which are seen as mutually beneficial. Currently, Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum reports that approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers hold valid residence permits in the country.