In her opening remarks, Ambassador Camila Polo Florez highlighted the country’s cultural diversity and emphasised the importance of building an inclusive and harmonious society that thrives on differences.

The ambassador paid tribute to the defining qualities of the Colombian people that are rich cultural identity, creativity, friendliness, and generosity. She also stressed the critical role of education, innovation, and solidarity in shaping a better future for Colombia and the world.

Reflecting on Colombia's recent socio-economic and political progress, the diplomat reaffirmed the core principles of the country’s foreign policy, spanning a commitment to multilateralism, dialogue, and cooperation.

She underlined Colombia’s active voice on the global stage in promoting justice, democracy, peace, and human rights, while safeguarding the sovereignty of nations. In an increasingly unpredictable world facing the Triple Planetary Crisis, wars, and conflicts, she called for collective action and international solidarity.

Ambassador Florez also acknowledged the positive contributions of the Colombian diaspora in Vietnam and worldwide. She highlighted the importance of Vietnam-Colombia relations, citing not only their shared historical experiences but also their common values of resilience, reconstruction, and a continuous pursuit of peace.

“Vietnam is not only Colombia’s partner in Asia, but also a friend who shares the same Sustainable Development Goals, mutual respect, and the aspiration for lasting peace,” the ambassador stated.

For her part, Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang commended Colombia’s historic struggle for independence and praised its remarkable achievements, positioning the country as one of Latin America’s most dynamic economies.

She also pointed out the parallels in the two countries’ histories of resistance against colonialism and national reconstruction, and expressed optimism about future cooperation in key areas such as trade, energy, agriculture, tourism, culture, and education.

According to the Deputy Foreign Minister, Colombia is currently Vietnam’s fifth largest trading partner in Latin America, with significant untapped potential for further cooperation.

On this occasion, she thanked the Colombian Embassy for its continuous efforts in strengthening cultural exchange and mutual understanding between the two countries.

At the event, guests had the opportunity to admire a photo exhibition featuring Colombia’s diverse bird species, accompanied by the sounds of birdsong. They also viewed a selection of exquisite handcrafted items made from wood and chaquira beads, skillfully created by indigenous communities from Colombia’s Caribbean and Amazon regions.

Chief diplomat receives Colombian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son hosted a reception in Hanoi on April 17 for Colombian Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs for Multilateral Affairs Mauricio Jaramillo Jassir on the sidelines of the 4th Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit.