Vietnam and Saudi Arabia met in Hanoi on November 10 to discuss deeper cooperation on religious affairs, ethnic‑minority development and the Halal industry. The talks are important because they could open new markets and jobs for Vietnamese people.

Minister of Ethnic and Religious Affairs Nguyen Dinh Khang proposed a formal coordination mechanism between the two countries. He also suggested joint projects that include Halal investment and workforce training.

Saudi Arabian Ambassador Thamer Mohammed A. Algosaibi affirmed Saudi Arabia’s commitment to strengthen ties with Vietnam, especially in religious affairs and the Halal sector. He pledged more substantive cooperation between the ministries.

The minister highlighted several concrete opportunities: Saudi investment in Halal‑related projects, joint ventures with Vietnamese firms, technology transfer, development of certification standards, and vocational training for Vietnamese workers. He hopes these steps will raise bilateral export turnover and help Vietnamese labourers meet Saudi market qualifications.

If the proposed mechanisms and projects move forward, Vietnamese businesses could gain access to the growing Halal market, while workers may receive training that matches Saudi employers’ needs. This cooperation could therefore create both jobs and new business prospects for Vietnam.