He made the statement at a ceremony held by the Russian Consulate General in HCM City on May 13 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War.

Peace-loving people around the world, including Vietnamese, will forever honour the contributions and sacrifices of the Soviet Red Army soldiers during the Great Patriotic War, Nghi said. The unyielding spirit, resilience, and courage of the Soviet people have become a shining symbol of revolutionary heroism in the 20th century, he added.

The official emphasised that the Vietnam–Russia friendship has become stronger, and more intensive and comprehensive. This relationship is built on a foundation of strong political trust, shared strategic interests, and deep mutual affection between the peoples of both nations.

He suggested that, amid global uncertainties, Vietnam and Russia should further promote their close friendship while expanding cooperation in fields such as trade, investment, energy, oil and gas, defence and security, education, healthcare, science and technology, culture, tourism, and people-to-people exchange.

According to Nghi, based on these strong bilateral ties, HCM City has established cooperative relationships with many major Russian cities, including Moscow, Saint Petersburg, and Vladivostok. The city has regularly organised delegations to visit, exchange experiences, and sign cooperation agreements in areas such as trade, education and training, urban development, transportation, environment, and digital transformation.

He expressed confidence that, with mutual trust, loyalty, and continued collaborative efforts, relations between HCM City and Russian partners, as well as the broader Vietnam–Russia friendship, will continue to grow stronger, more sustainable, and more effective.

Speaking at the ceremony, Russian Consul General in HCM City Timur Sadykov highlighted that the event marked a significant historical milestone not only for the two countries but for all of humanity.

He noted Russia’s deep gratitude for Vietnam’s continued support amid today’s turbulent global landscape. The visit of Party General Secretary To Lam to Moscow to attend the Victory Day military parade once again reaffirmed the deep and enduring friendship between the peoples of Russia and Vietnam.

Party General Secretary meets with Russian experts, intellectuals

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee To Lam had a meeting in Moscow on May 11 with Russian intellectuals, scholars, and experts who had supported Vietnam in the past.