On April 14, Hans Weber, President of Prague Forum and publisher of the Prague Forum Newsletter, visited the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Prague. He was received by the Ambassador, together with the Embassy’s Economic Attaché, for an in-depth and constructive exchange.

The discussion focused in particular on current geopolitical developments, including the ongoing tensions surrounding Iran and the Gulf region, and their broader implications for international stability and economic cooperation.

At the same time, both sides placed strong emphasis on the evolving bilateral relationship between the Czech Republic and Vietnam. In early 2025, relations between the two countries were elevated to a strategic partnership, underlining their growing political and economic importance.

A key topic of the meeting was in his role as Head for International Development, the potential to expand economic cooperation, especially in healthcare workforce mobility. With Europe—particularly Germany—facing a significant shortage of qualified nursing staff, Vietnam has emerged as an increasingly important partner in the recruitment and training of healthcare professionals.

The conversation explored opportunities to strengthen structured programs for recruiting Vietnamese nurses and caregivers for the European market, with a particular focus on Germany. Such initiatives typically combine language training, recognition of professional qualifications, and long-term integration pathways, offering mutual benefits for both sending and receiving countries.

Hans Weber highlighted the importance of transparent, ethical recruitment frameworks and emphasized the role of international cooperation in addressing labor shortages in the healthcare sector. The Ambassador welcomed these perspectives and reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to expanding its international partnerships, including in human capital development.

The meeting concluded in a positive and forward-looking atmosphere, with both sides expressing a shared interest in further developing concrete projects and maintaining close dialogue in the future.