Greece is actively pursuing stronger labor ties with Vietnam and other ASEAN nations to tackle workforce challenges and bolster economic growth, according to Greek Minister of Migration and Asylum, Athanasios Plevris. During a recent meeting in Athens with representatives from Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia, Plevris highlighted the importance of establishing early bilateral labor agreements. He asserted that these agreements are crucial for safeguarding the rights of both workers and employers while aiding Greece in its efforts to curb irregular migration.
Plevris underscored that effective management of migration has become a pivotal priority for Greece, especially after the European Union implemented its new Pact on Migration and Asylum. This new focus aligns with Greece’s strategic goals of enhancing its labor market and managing migration flows more efficiently.
Vietnamese Ambassador Phạm Thị Thu Hương expressed optimism about the progress made in labor cooperation discussions with Greece. She remarked that both nations are moving closer to finalizing a bilateral labor agreement, which she believes would not only open up more job opportunities for Vietnamese workers but also strengthen the diplomatic and economic ties between Greece and Vietnam.
The Greek minister responded positively to the initiative and urged the relevant authorities to expedite negotiations with Vietnam and other ASEAN countries. The goal is to swiftly conclude labor cooperation agreements that would benefit all parties involved. This move is part of a broader strategy to address labor shortages in Greece and enhance economic growth through international cooperation.
As of now, Greece hosts approximately 1,700 Vietnamese workers with valid residence permits, according to the country’s Ministry of Migration and Asylum. These numbers highlight the existing contribution of Vietnamese labor to the Greek economy and underscore the potential for expanding this workforce through formal agreements.