The function was attended by approximately 600 guests, including leaders of Russian government agencies, representatives of foreign diplomatic missions in Russia, organizations, businesses from both countries, as well as friends, intellectuals, and Russian veterans who have significantly contributed to bilateral relations, and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Russia.

In his speech, Ambassador Dang Minh Khoi emphasized the pride in the trusted friendship between Vietnam and Russia over the past 75 years. According to the diplomat, Vietnam-Russia relations were built on strong foundations of comradeship, wholehearted and selfless support, and deep mutual affection between the peoples of both countries, as well as effective cooperation for development.

After establishing diplomatic relations on January 30, 1950, he said, Vietnam and the Soviet Union fought side by side not only for Vietnam’s independence and reunification but also for a fairer global order.

“Vietnam always remembers with deep gratitude the sincere and valuable assistance provided by the former Soviet Union and present-day Russia during difficult times in the past, as well as in the country’s current development phase,” he noted.

In Vietnam, he said, many major economic projects built with Russian assistance continue to operate effectively, such as the Hoa Binh Hydropower Plant and Thang Long Bridge. Vietnam also cherishes the contributions of Soviet and Russian veterans and experts who helped in national construction and defence.

“Tens of thousands of highly qualified professionals were trained by the former Soviet Union and now Russia, many of whom have become prominent figures and leaders in various fields in Vietnam,” reminded Khoi.

The Ambassador noted that political relations between the two countries continue to strengthen, with regular high-level exchanges. Key working trips include Russian President Vladimir Putin’s state visit in June 2024, Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin’s official visit in January 2025, Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s participation in the BRICS+ Summit in Kazan in October 2024, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man’s official visit in September 2024.

“The achievements we have attained over the past 75 years of cooperation have proven that the path we have chosen is absolutely the right one. The leaders and people of both countries share strong confidence in further deepening the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Vietnam and Russia to elevate our cooperation to new heights,” said the ambassador.

At the ceremony, Mikhail Efimovich Shvydkoy, the Special Representative of the President of the Russian Federation for International Cultural Cooperation, affirmed that he and his generation of Russian friends have experienced a unique school - the school of love for Vietnam.

“For many generations of Russians, love for Vietnam is something that comes naturally and does not need to be taught,” he stated.

Shvydkoi remarked that over more than three-quarters of a century, Vietnam and Russia have endured a long and challenging journey together. However, the deep affection between the two nations has remained unchanged. On the international stage, Vietnam is one of Russia’s closest partners in ASEAN and plays a crucial role in fostering ASEAN-Russia cooperation. Strengthening the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership serves the interests of both nations and contributes to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region and worldwide.

“2025 is a year of history, a year of memories and pride. The world is constantly changing, and geopolitical dynamics may influence many things. However, there is one thing that will never change that is the loyal friendship between our two nations,” said Shvydkoy.

That strong and steadfast friendship was further affirmed through a well-curated and highly artistic cultural programme. The delegates listened to music, admired the elegant Vietnamese Ao Dai on stage, and savored traditional cuisine.

As part of the celebration, the Embassy of Vietnam also organized an exhibition showcasing photographs that capture the milestones of the 75-year friendship between Vietnam and Russia.

Vietnam and Russia outline cooperation orientations in Hanoi

VOV.VN - Vietnam and Russia reviewed bilateral cooperation and outlined orientations during a political consultation between the two countries’ Ministries of Foreign Affairs in Hanoi on February 21.