UK and Vietnam agree deal on illegal migration

UK and Vietnam agree deal on illegal migration
Reuters

The United Kingdom announced on Wednesday (October 29) that it has signed a new agreement with Vietnam aimed at tackling illegal migration, describing it as the strongest deal Hanoi has ever concluded with another country.

The agreement is designed to streamline deportation procedures, cutting bureaucratic delays and allowing the UK to more swiftly return individuals with no legal right to remain. British officials say the deal marks a major step forward in the government’s efforts to reduce irregular migration flows.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the number of illegal arrivals from Vietnam had already fallen by half but insisted that further progress was needed.

“Today’s agreement shows that through international cooperation — not shouting from the sidelines — we can deliver for the UK and for working people,” Starmer said in a statement.

The accord comes amid ongoing UK efforts to forge bilateral partnerships with countries in Asia and Africa to manage migration, speed up returns, and strengthen enforcement against people-smuggling networks.

London said the deal reflects a broader diplomatic approach focused on collaboration rather than confrontation, aiming to deliver both humanitarian protection and border security.

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