Greece is actively pursuing enhanced labor cooperation with Vietnam and other ASEAN nations to tackle workforce shortages and boost economic growth, according to Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Athanasios Plevris. During a recent meeting in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, Plevris highlighted the importance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements to protect the rights of both workers and employers. Such agreements, he noted, would also aid Greece in its efforts to curb irregular migration amid the European Union’s implementation of a new Pact on Migration and Asylum.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương expressed optimism about the progress made in labor cooperation discussions with Greece. She mentioned that talks with the Greek minister have been advancing and expressed her hope for the swift finalization of a bilateral labor agreement. According to her, such a deal would not only open up more employment opportunities for Vietnamese workers in Greece but also strengthen diplomatic relations between the two countries.
The Greek minister responded positively to the ambassador’s statements, instructing relevant authorities to continue their negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. The goal is to expedite the signing of labor cooperation agreements that would benefit all parties involved. Plevris reiterated that managing migration effectively has become a pressing priority for Greece, particularly in light of recent EU policy changes.
In Greece, there are currently about 1,700 Vietnamese workers with valid residence permits, according to the country’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum. This existing presence underscores the potential for expanded labor ties between the two nations. By fostering these international labor agreements, Greece hopes to secure a sustainable workforce while providing new opportunities for workers from ASEAN countries.