In a bid to tackle workforce shortages and bolster economic growth, Greece is seeking to enhance its labor collaboration with Vietnam and other nations within the ASEAN bloc. This strategic 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. Plevris underscored the significance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements, which are expected to not only protect the rights of both workers and employers but also support Greece’s efforts to curb irregular migration.
The urgency of migration management has escalated in response to the European Union’s new Pact on Migration and Asylum, which emphasizes streamlined approaches to managing migration flows. Plevris expressed that such agreements are crucial for Greece as it navigates these new EU directives.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương expressed optimism regarding the progress made in discussions on labor cooperation with Greece, following earlier dialogues with Minister Plevris. She conveyed hopes that Vietnam and Greece would soon conclude a bilateral labor agreement, which would pave the way for increased employment opportunities for Vietnamese workers and further solidify the ties between the two countries.
Minister Plevris welcomed the ambassador’s proposal, instructing the pertinent authorities to continue discussions with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries with the aim of expediting the formalization of labor cooperation agreements. This move is anticipated to foster a mutually beneficial exchange of labor resources.
At present, data from Greece’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum indicates that approximately 1,700 Vietnamese nationals hold valid residence permits in Greece. This statistic underscores the potential for expanded labor cooperation to enhance workforce availability while contributing to Greece’s economic objectives.