International cooperation for sustainable development is an integral and significant part of Italy’s foreign policy. It is inspired by the principles of the United Nations Charter and the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union. In accordance with the principle set out in Article 11 of the Constitution, its action contributes to the promotion of peace and justice and aims to promote solidarity and equal relations between peoples, based on the principles of interdependence and partnership.

AICS Hanoi is an integral part of Team Europe, a collaborative approach between the European Union, EU Member States, and key stakeholders to address development priorities with a transformative impact. Through Team Europe Initiatives (TEIs), AICS Hanoi works alongside the EU and other partners to provide coordinated and results-oriented solutions, combining resources and expertise for maximum effectiveness. The partnership with the EU reflects a shared ambition to promote sustainable development, aligning European priorities with the needs of Southeast Asian countries to achieve lasting change.

The international community has adopted the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, whose essential elements are the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and 169 targets, aiming to end poverty, combat inequalities, and achieve social and economic development. The SDGs also include key aspects of sustainable development, such as addressing climate change and building peaceful societies by 2030.

Italy was among the first Western European countries (the first of the then EEC) to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam, on 23rd March 1973. From that time Italy has always been one of its main partners and had the opportunity to consolidate a relationship built on friendship and dialogue. In recent years, bilateral relations have experienced steady intensification, especially since 2013, when, on the occasion of the celebrations for the 40th anniversary of bilateral relations, a strategic partnership agreement was signed in Rome, which has expanded the range of possibilities of Italy-Vietnam collaboration in all fields.