President Luong Cuong hosts Belarussian Defense Minister Viktor Khrenin

Cuong affirmed that the Party, State, Army, and people of Vietnam value the traditional friendship between Vietnam and Belarus, which has been nurtured by the leaders and people of both countries over the decades.

He thanked the former Soviet Union, including Belarus, for their heartfelt and effective support to Vietnam during its past struggle for national independence and reunification.

The President highlighted the growing strength of bilateral relations, particularly in political and diplomatic ties, serving as a foundation for expanded cooperation across various fields such as defense, security, economy, trade, investment, education, science, culture, and tourism.

Khrenin for his part acknowledged the longstanding relationship between the two countries, recalling President Ho Chi Minh’s visit to Belarus and the Soviet Union’s steadfast support for Vietnam’s just fight for independence. He emphasized the flourishing bilateral cooperation in multiple fields, driven by mutual respect and shared positions on international and regional issues.

Khrenin briefed Cuong on his fruitful talks with Defense Minister Phan Van Giang, noting the positive progress in defense cooperation. He expressed hope that his visit would open up a new phase of partnership between the two countries in the defense sector, enhancing professionalism and combat readiness within their militaries.

Cuong appreciated the outcomes of the talks and stressed the importance of deepening bilateral defense ties through activities such as delegation exchanges, high-level visits, and cooperation in areas like training, military medicine, and military history.

The President also extended his best regards to President Alexander Lukashenko of Belarus and expressed hopes for Belarus’ continued support in fostering traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between the two countries and their Ministries of Defense, contributing to peace, stability, and development in both countries and the region.

Khrenin extended President Lukashenko’s invitation for President Cuong to visit Belarus, and the invitation was accepted with pleasure.