At the event, Huynh Thanh Lap, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam–India Friendship Association, underscored the historical significance of August 15, 1947, when under the leadership of Mahatma Gandhi, the people of India gained independence, marking an important milestone in the nation’s history. Over the past 79 years, India has achieved remarkable progress in a multitude of fields, becoming a responsible and active member of the international community and a comprehensive strategic partner of Vietnam.

Since establishing diplomatic relations in 1972, and especially after upgrading to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016, Vietnam-India relations have attained significant achievements, with strategic trust continually strengthened through close cooperation across sectors, localities, and frequent high-level exchanges.

At the local level, successive leaders of Ho Chi Minh City have shown deep concern and commitment to bilateral friendship. Under their guidance and support, people-to-people exchanges between both nations in the city have been dynamic, spanning economic, tourism, cultural, and educational activities. These interactions have helped strengthen ties, enhance mutual understanding, and bring benefits to the citizens of the two countries.

Vipra Pandey, Consul General of the Republic of India in Ho Chi Minh City, expressed gratitude to the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations for organizing the celebration, noting that it clearly reflects the deep friendship and affection between the people of Vietnam and India. He highlighted the shared history, values, and aspirations connecting the two nations, from the spread of Buddhism over 2,000 years ago to the spirit of solidarity in the fight for independence.

Pandey also noted that over the past two decades, the India–Vietnam partnership has grown steadily, achieving the status of a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Politically, leaders from both countries regularly meet to build trust and shape a common vision for peace and prosperity. Economically, bilateral trade has expanded manifold, with enterprises cooperating in sectors such as energy, technology, and agriculture. Bilateral trade value has grown from a few hundred million dollars in the early 2000s to more than US$15 billion in 2024. Cultural exchanges have been vibrant and meaningful.

He added that what makes the friendship between the two peoples special is the warmth and mutual respect. Indian visitors feel at home in Vietnam, and the Vietnamese community in India is also well respected. Looking ahead, he expressed confidence that India–Vietnam relations will continue to grow stronger, building a future based on friendship, trust, and cooperation.

The gathering featured a lively atmosphere of friendship, with traditional cultural performances from Vietnam and India presented by students from the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University, Ho Chi Minh City.

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