The remarks were made during a meeting on July 7 in Perth with Viet Nam's Consul General, Pham Hai Anh, who has recently begun his diplomatic posting in the state.
Welcoming the Consul General, Cook expressed confidence that he would make a significant contribution to strengthening ties between Viet Nam and Western Australia. He praised the progress made in bilateral cooperation in recent years and reaffirmed the state's commitment to expanding engagement with Viet Nam.
The Premier said Western Australia was accelerating its strategy to strengthen economic integration with South-East Asia as part of efforts to diversify its economy, broaden export markets and promote sustainable growth.
As part of this strategy, Cook will lead a high-level trade mission to Viet Nam in September 2026, accompanied by senior ministers and representatives from leading Western Australian businesses. The delegation is expected to explore opportunities for cooperation in trade, investment, energy transition, agriculture, international education, mining technology and industrial development.
Cook also called for greater implementation of an existing memorandum of understanding between Western Australia and Ba Ria-Vung Tau Province, now part of Ho Chi Minh City, through practical collaborative projects.
Pham Hai Anh congratulated Western Australia on its economic achievements and reaffirmed that Viet Nam attaches great importance to its relationship with Australia, particularly Western Australia, within the framework of the countries' Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
He highlighted opportunities to expand cooperation in areas of shared strength, including clean energy, science and technology, critical minerals, high-tech agriculture and education, while encouraging stronger links between Western Australia and Vietnamese localities.
The Consul General also outlined Viet Nam's latest policies aimed at attracting high-quality foreign investment and reaffirmed the Consulate General's commitment to working closely with both sides to ensure the success of the Premier's visit, which is expected to mark a new milestone in bilateral relations.
