During the meeting, Ambassador Pham Thi Thu Huong briefed Mayor Thomas Begas on Viet Nam's economic situation and development potential, the two countries' long-standing friendship spanning more than 50 years, and the high-level exchanges between the two countries scheduled for 2026.
The Vietnamese Ambassador to Greece emphasised that the strong political relationship between the two countries provided a favourable foundation for expanding cooperation across all sectors, bringing tangible benefits to their people and businesses. In the Ioannina region, which is home to some of Greece's major food-processing plants, nearly 300 Vietnamese workers are currently living and working. Viet Nam therefore hopes that the city authorities will pay attention to their needs, facilitate their working conditions, and provide support during their employment in the region.
In addition, Ambassador Pham Thi Thu Huong introduced the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) and the activities of the ASEAN Committee in Athens (ACAT), expressing her desire to establish links and organise ACAT activities in Ioannina to enhance its residents' understanding of ASEAN.
Welcoming the Vietnamese Ambassador's visit to Ioannina, Mayor Thomas Begas expressed particular interest in and readiness to support Vietnamese workers employed in the region. He also voiced his desire to promote the city's diplomatic relations with ASEAN countries, in line with Viet Nam's proposal, with a view to developing cooperation programmes in culture, tourism, and sport between Ioannina and the ACAT member countries: Viet Nam, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand.
As part of her visit, Ambassador Pham Thi Thu Huong visited and held working meetings with Nitsiakos and Pindos — two of Greece's leading food-processing companies.
Meeting several Vietnamese workers at the Nitsiakos plant, Ambassador Pham Thi Thu Huong listened to their views, concerns, and aspirations. She also emphasised the importance of strictly complying with company regulations, maintaining a positive attitude at work and in daily life, respecting local culture and laws, preserving Viet Nam's image and enhancing the reputation of Vietnamese workers.
