Vietnam, Bangladesh target US$2 billion trade, direct air links at 81st National Day event

Those in attendance at the event included State Minister for Foreign Affairs of Bangladesh Shama Obaed Islam, senior officials from Bangladeshi ministries and agencies, members of the diplomatic corps, representatives of international organizations, business leaders, and members of the Vietnamese community in Bangladesh.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Nguyen Manh Cuong highlighted the historic significance of the August 1945 Revolution and President Ho Chi Minh's proclamation of independence establishing the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

The ambassador noted that after 40 years of Doi Moi (Renewal), Vietnam has achieved major socio-economic progress, growing into a dynamic economy with a GDP of US$514 billion in 2025 and economic growth of 8.02%.

Total trade turnover reached US$930 billion, while registered foreign direct investment (FDI) surpassed US$38.4 billion. Vietnam is currently implementing 17 free trade agreements (FTAs), welcomed over 21.2 million foreign visitors in 2025, and maintains diplomatic relations with 195 countries, including strategic partnership frameworks with 38 key partners.

On bilateral relations, Ambassador Nguyen Manh Cuong stressed that Vietnam and Bangladesh enjoy a traditional friendship built on historical similarities, shared cultural values, and development aspirations. Since establishing diplomatic ties in 1973, the two nations have consistently supported each other at regional and international forums.

Two-way trade hit approximately US$1.2 billion in 2025, with both sides working toward a US$2 billion target.

The diplomat laid stress on substantial potential for further cooperation in trade, investment, agriculture, logistics, technology, healthcare, tourism, and business connectivity. He added that the early conclusion of negotiations on a new air services agreement toward launching direct flights between Hanoi and Dhaka is expected to boost bilateral trade and people-to-people exchanges.

On this occasion, Ambassador Nguyen Manh Cuong praised Bangladesh on the successful organization of its general election in February 2026 and presidential election on August 20, 2026. He also extended best wishes to Foreign Minister Khalilur Rahman on his election as President of the 81st Session of the UN General Assembly for the 2026-2027 term.

Speaking on behalf of the Bangladeshi government, State Minister for Foreign Affairs Shama Obaed Islam offered warm congratulations to the leaders and people of Vietnam on their National Day.

She spoke highly of Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements and the positive outcomes of bilateral cooperation across economic, trade, cultural, and agricultural spheres. She noted that significant potential remains for joint work, particularly in pharmaceuticals, telecommunications, and tourism, while calling for stronger business ties and cultural exchanges.

During the reception, guests sampled traditional Vietnamese cuisine and viewed promotional videos featuring Vietnam's culture, land, and people.

Earlier on August 29, the Vietnamese Embassy, in coordination with the Vietnamese Business Association in Bangladesh and the Tiger Golf Club, organized the Vietnam-Bangladesh Friendship Golf Tournament. The event gathered ambassadors and high commissioners from ASEAN and South Asian countries, alongside over 50 golfers and representatives from dozens of Vietnamese and Bangladeshi companies to promote trade and product networking.

Speaking at the award ceremony, Ambassador Nguyen Manh Cuong hailed the sportsmanship of the participants, noting that sports serve as a practical bridge to deepen mutual understanding among business communities.

Retired Brigadier General Md Manzur Qader, Vice President of the Tiger Golf Club, welcomed Vietnam’s National Day and expressed hope that the tournament will become an annual event to enhance links between the business sectors of the two countries.

Concluding the event, Ambassador Nguyen Manh Cuong and his spouse, Ha Thi Thanh Van, presented awards, insignias, and Vietnamese products to the top-performing golfers.

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