The event celebrated the 35th anniversary of Vietnam-EU diplomatic relations, marking an important milestone to reflect on the comprehensive achievements of cooperation, from politics and diplomacy to trade, investment, education and culture, demonstrated through the trust, respect and close ties between their peoples.

The choice of Yen Tu, the cradle of the Truc Lam Zen Buddhist lineage, inscribed by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage site on July 12, carried profound symbolic meaning, underscoring that development must go hand in hand with cultural identity, respect for nature and sustainable development.

Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang said Vietnam and Europe share deep historical and cultural ties. Over 35 years of diplomatic relations, the two sides have recorded notable progress, particularly since upgrading to a comprehensive partnership and cooperation framework in 2012. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges continue to serve as a foundation for strong and enduring ties. Vietnam is prioritizing cultural and human development alongside economic, political and social goals, viewing them as core resources for rapid and sustainable national development.

The shared message emphasized that culture is the root of development, a bridge that connects people, and a pathway to a sustainable future. The event contributed to strengthening understanding and cooperation between Quang Ninh, other localities in Vietnam, the EU Delegation and European embassies in Hanoi, contributing to a comprehensive partnership and cooperation that moving to a higher level.

EU Ambassador to Vietnam Julien Guerrier expressed appreciation for Vietnam’s cooperation and hospitality, adding that Vietnam is a key and trusted partner of the EU. The year 2025 will mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations, reflecting an increasingly dynamic partnership. The EU has signed several bilateral agreements with Vietnam, notably the EU–Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which marks its fifth year of implementation this year. He noted that the EU and Vietnam are working toward upgrading the relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

In 2025, Vietnam and the EU mark the 35th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, highlighting an increasingly robust and dynamic relationship. The EU has concluded a number of bilateral agreements with Vietnam, most notably the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA), which marks its fifth year in force this year. He also noted that the EU and Vietnam are working together to elevate their cooperation to a comprehensive strategic partnership.

For Quang Ninh, culture is recognized as a foundational pillar and a driving force for sustainable development. The province is home to two UNESCO World Heritage sites- Ha Long Bay and the Yen Tu–Con Son–Kiep Bac complex, along with 641 historical sites, 362 intangible cultural heritage elements, and the cultural identities of 43 ethnic groups. This provides distinctive resources for developing cultural industries, heritage tourism and green tourism.

In recent years, Quang Ninh has proactively carried out major programs on cultural and human development linked with international integration. Cultural and artistic events such as Ha Long Carnaval, the Hokkaido Festival, the Camellia Tea Festival and large-scale concerts have become notable highlights, promoting tourism and highlighting Quang Ninh’s dynamic, creative, and friendly image.

Vice Chairman of the Quang Ninh Provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Van Cong emphasized that the province has been resolute in pursuing green growth, transitioning from a “brown” to a “green” development model, placing people at the center, culture as the foundation, and sustainability as the goal.

Quang Ninh is expanding international cooperation, with the EU as an important partner in renewable energy, heritage tourism, the green economy, digital transformation, human resource training and cultural cooperation. The province hopes the event will create further opportunities for exchange, connectivity, and cooperation with European partners to promote sustainable development projects.

Party leader To Lam’s European trip marks new era in Vietnam’s diplomacy

VOV.VN - Party General Secretary To Lam has returned to Hanoi, successfully concluding a working trip to Finland and Bulgaria that marked new milestones in Vietnam’s diplomatic outreach and international partnerships.

Ninh Binh province forges partnership with European firms

A working delegation from Ninh Binh conducted a series of activities in France to introduce the locality’s potential and strengths as well as seeking investment and cooperation opportunities with European partners as part of the recent promotion programme across several European Union countries.