Hà Nội and Rome have taken a new step in strengthening bilateral relations after signing a joint statement aimed at expanding cooperation across a wide range of sectors. The agreement marks a significant milestone in the growing partnership between the capitals of Việt Nam and Italy.
The signing took place during a working visit to Italy by a Hà Nội delegation led by Trần Đình Cảnh, a member of the Standing Board of the Hà Nội Party Committee and Chairman of the committee’s Inspection Board. The delegation met with Rome authorities on July 27 local time to discuss ways to deepen cooperation and strengthen ties between the two cities.
During the meeting, officials from both sides welcomed the positive progress in relations between Việt Nam and Italy. They also highlighted the growing cooperation between Hà Nội and Rome, which has continued to expand in recent years through exchanges and joint activities.
Representatives from both capitals reaffirmed their commitment to increasing cooperation and broadening partnerships in areas of common interest. They said stronger collaboration would support the implementation of the Việt Nam–Italy Strategic Partnership as the two countries enter a new stage of development.
A key outcome of the visit was the signing of a joint statement between the Hà Nội People’s Committee and the Rome City government. The document was signed by Vice Chairman of the Hà Nội People’s Committee Bùi Duy Cường and President of the Rome City Council Svetlana Celli.
The agreement establishes a framework for closer cooperation over the next two years and is designed to promote practical and long-term partnerships between the two capitals. Officials said the statement reflects a shared commitment to building stronger links and creating opportunities for cooperation that benefit both cities.
Under the agreement, six priority areas have been identified for future collaboration. These include urban management and regeneration, environmental protection and sustainable development, education and culture, social development, integration and innovation, and the economy, trade, and investment.
The two sides agreed that cooperation in these sectors can help improve the quality of life for residents while supporting sustainable urban growth and economic development. Officials also expressed interest in sharing knowledge and best practices that can help address modern urban challenges.
One of the most important areas of cooperation outlined in the statement is heritage preservation and urban redevelopment. Both capitals agreed to strengthen exchanges of experience related to the protection, restoration, and promotion of historical and cultural sites.
The initiative will allow Hà Nội to learn from Italy’s long-standing expertise in preserving historic cities while continuing to modernize urban infrastructure. Italy is widely recognized for its successful efforts to maintain cultural heritage while supporting economic development and tourism growth.
For Hà Nội, the partnership offers an opportunity to gain valuable experience in balancing heritage conservation with the demands of a rapidly growing modern city. City leaders see this as an important part of the Vietnamese capital’s long-term development strategy.
Officials noted that preserving cultural and architectural landmarks remains a key priority as Hà Nội continues to expand and modernize. Greater cooperation with Rome could support efforts to protect historical sites while ensuring sustainable development for future generations.
The agreement also opens the door for stronger collaboration in education, cultural exchanges, innovation, and investment promotion. These areas are expected to create new opportunities for institutions, businesses, and communities in both cities.
The signing of the joint statement reflects the growing importance of city-level diplomacy in strengthening international relations. As Hà Nội and Rome expand cooperation, both capitals hope to contribute to broader ties between Việt Nam and Italy while promoting sustainable development, cultural exchange, and economic growth.
The new framework is expected to guide cooperation activities over the next two years and serve as a foundation for deeper engagement between the two historic capitals in the years ahead.
