On July 29, 2025, Vietnam’s Minister of Construction, Tran Hong Minh, welcomed UK Ambassador Iain Frew for a pivotal meeting aimed at bolstering cooperation between the two nations in construction and transportation sectors. This meeting underscored the enduring partnership between Vietnam and the United Kingdom, which has flourished for over half a century and was elevated to a Strategic Partnership in 2010.
Ambassador Frew expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and highlighted the remarkable progress in bilateral relations, noting that trade turnover between the two countries surpassed 8 billion USD in 2024. He also referenced a recent June 2025 meeting between the UK Business Association in Vietnam and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, where discussions centered on expanding collaboration in infrastructure, digital transformation, and green development—fields ripe with potential for mutual growth.
Minister Tran Hong Minh affirmed the strong ties in aviation, climate-compatible growth (CCG), digital transformation, and Building Information Modeling (BIM). A key highlight is the aviation sector, where Vietnam Airlines operates direct flights from Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi to London Heathrow (LHR). Passenger numbers on these routes have surged, with 61,000 passengers transported in the first five months of 2025—a 9% increase from the same period in 2024—and a seat occupancy rate nearing 87%.
Vietnam’s aviation market is among the fastest-growing in the region, with passenger growth projected at 5-6% annually. The country aims to reach 150 million passengers by 2035 and 200 million by 2040, nearly doubling 2019 figures. Vietnam also achieved Category 1 (CAT 1) certification for aviation safety oversight, a significant milestone that facilitates the expansion of its international air network.
One of the most ambitious projects underway is the Long Thanh International Airport, Phase 1 of which is slated for completion by the end of 2025. This new airport is expected to elevate Vietnam’s status in the regional and global aviation landscape. Minister Tran Hong Minh welcomed the collaboration between the Swire Group and HAECO on an Aircraft Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) Center at Van Don Airport in Quang Ninh, a venture that promises to enhance the domestic aviation industry and create a high-quality industrial value chain.
The rail sector, too, is a focal point of cooperation. Recognized for its crucial role in passenger and freight transport, Vietnam’s rail infrastructure development is guided by the Politburo’s plan through 2030, with a vision extending to 2045. The goal is to build a modern, integrated railway system that supports rapid, sustainable socio-economic growth, aligning with Vietnam’s ambition to become a high-income country by 2045.
Currently, Vietnam is fast-tracking key railway projects, including lines connecting to China, urban railways in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, and the highly anticipated North-South high-speed railway. This project, approved by the National Assembly, will span approximately 1,541 kilometers with a double track gauge of 1,435 mm and a design speed of 350 km/h. The estimated investment exceeds 67 billion USD, with the target to complete the basic infrastructure by 2035.
Minister Tran Hong Minh emphasized the complexity and significance of the North-South high-speed railway, noting Vietnam’s limited experience in such large-scale projects. Therefore, the involvement of globally experienced consulting firms is vital. He expressed confidence that Ambassador Frew, serving as a bridge between the UK and Vietnam governments, would continue to support and accompany the Ministry of Construction in implementing strategic cooperation programs that promote sustainable development and prosperity for both nations.
Ambassador Iain Frew echoed this sentiment, reaffirming the UK’s commitment to deepening collaboration. He highlighted the UK government’s efforts in supporting Vietnam’s human resource development within global infrastructure programs, introducing advanced construction contracts and BIM technologies. He expressed optimism about expanding opportunities for UK businesses to contribute their expertise to Vietnam’s infrastructure and green development projects.
The meeting not only celebrated the robust historical ties but also set a forward-looking agenda centered on infrastructure, technology, and sustainable growth. It demonstrated the mutual recognition that through strategic partnerships and shared expertise, Vietnam and the UK can achieve greater heights in economic development and regional connectivity.
With Vietnam’s aviation sector poised to nearly double passenger numbers within two decades and its ambitious railway projects aiming to revolutionize transport across the country, the UK’s role as a strategic partner is more crucial than ever. The collaboration on projects like the Long Thanh Airport and the Van Don MRO Center exemplifies how both countries can leverage their strengths for mutual benefit.
As Vietnam accelerates its infrastructure development to meet growing demands and sustainability goals, the partnership with the UK offers a pathway to integrate cutting-edge technologies and global best practices. The shared commitment to climate-compatible growth and digital transformation further cements this alliance as a model for 21st-century international cooperation.
In sum, the July 2025 meeting between Minister Tran Hong Minh and Ambassador Iain Frew marked a significant milestone in Vietnam-UK relations, reaffirming a shared vision for a prosperous, connected, and sustainable future.
