Lavrov and Vietnamese ambassador open photo exhibition to mark 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations

Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Dang Minh Khoi opened a photo exhibition dedicated to the 75th anniversary of Russian-Vietnamese diplomatic relations. The event took place on February 11 in Moscow.

In a speech at the opening of the exposition, the Foreign Minister drew attention to the long history of cooperation between the Russian and Vietnamese peoples. He recalled that the Soviet Union was one of the first to establish diplomatic relations with the Democratic Republic of Vietnam on January 30, 1950.

Lavrov added that Russia cherishes the memory of the exploits of Vietnamese volunteers during the Great Patriotic War. Russia expects Vietnamese representatives to participate in the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the Victory in May in Moscow.

"The friendship and mutual sympathy of our peoples have been tested by time, they are not subject to any political conjuncture. We are proud of the fact that we provided assistance to the heroic Vietnam during the years of struggle for freedom and independence and during the period of peace building," Lavrov emphasized.

According to the diplomat, at the present stage, the Russian-Vietnamese partnership has acquired a comprehensive strategic character, with trustful dialog, especially at the highest level, at its core.

In addition, Lavrov noted the active cooperation between the two states in economy, science and culture. Cooperation in the energy sector plays a special role, the minister emphasized. He pointed to the close interaction of the two countries in international organizations with the coincidence of positions on most issues on the global and regional agenda.

Ambassador Dang Minh Khoi, in turn, said Vietnam does not forget the contribution of Soviet and Russian specialists to the country's development. According to him, many facilities created with their help are still in operation. Moreover, Russia has helped train many prominent Vietnamese scientific and cultural figures and leaders.

The ambassador also emphasized the positive dynamics in bilateral military, economic, scientific, educational and tourism cooperation.

"Given our huge potential for cooperation, with joint efforts, we may well achieve great results in the new stage of development of Vietnam-Russia relations. This is in the fundamental interests of both countries and contributes to strengthening security and stability in the Asia-Pacific region," the ambassador said.

Earlier, from January 13 to 15, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin paid an official visit to Vietnam. Following the talks, the countries approved a plan to develop cooperation until 2030. According to Mishustin, the comprehensive plan should help achieve the ambitious goal of tripling mutual trade turnover to $15 billion.