Vietnam, Venezuela reinforce ties through people-to-people diplomacy
VOV.VN - A delegation from the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) and the Vietnam–Venezuela Friendship Association, led by VUFO Vice President Dong Huy Cuong, visited Venezuela from May 24 to 29 to observe the South American country’s parliamentary and local elections, at the invitation of Venezuela’s ruling United Socialist Party (PSUV).

During the visit, the delegation participated in activities organized by the Venezuelan National Electoral Council, signed a memorandum of understanding with the the Simon Bolivar Institute for Peace and Solidarity among Peoples (ISB), paid a courtesy call on Foreign Minister Yvan Gil Pinto, held meetings with the Venezuela–Vietnam Parliamentary Friendship Group, and met with war veterans in Caracas and other long-standing friends of Vietnam.
Speaking at the events, Vice President Dong Huy Cuong congratulated Venezuela on its successful elections and reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent support for the Venezuelan people’s just cause in pursuit of independence, sovereignty, and socialism. He expressed admiration for the Venezuelan people’s resilience in the face of severe sanctions and reiterated Vietnam’s enduring appreciation for the solidarity and support offered by Venezuela during the years of resistance wars and the country’s ongoing renewal process
He emphasized that the friendship between Vietnam and Venezuela has deep historical roots, built on mutual trust, solidarity, and shared ideals.
Regarding the newly signed memorandum with ISB, Cuong stated that the agreement would help strengthen coordination between people’s organizations such as VUFO, ISB, and the Venezuela–Vietnam Friendship House, thereby contributing to peace, stability, and the wellbeing of both peoples.
At a meeting with the Vietnamese delegation, Foreign Minister Yvan Gil described Vietnam as a symbol of resilience and national strength, transforming from the ashes of war into a prosperous, independent nation with growing international stature. Despite facing numerous challenges, Venezuela continues to regard Vietnam as a great friend as a trusted friend and a model of determination, independence, and peaceful progress, he said.
Alongside achievements in bilateral relations, the FM emphasized the important role of people-to-people diplomacy and voiced support for continued exchanges between intellectuals and cultural figures from both countries, as well as increased student exchanges and business connectivity.
At the signing ceremony of the VUFO–ISB memorandum, Deputy Foreign Minister Tatiana Pugh Moreno said the document represents not only a cooperation agreement, but also a continuation of the long-standing solidarity between the two peoples. She expressed hope that it will promote new opportunities for academic, cultural, and youth exchanges, and closer ties among businesses and civil society organizations.
ISB President Rosa Eekhout described the signing as a “symphony of friendship,” coinciding with major milestones celebrated by both nations- the 135th birthday of President Ho Chi Minh, the 80th anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day, and the PSUV’s resounding victory in the elections.
During their meetings, Venezuelan officials also congratulated Vietnam on its remarkable achievements in the decades since national reunification and voiced confidence in the country’s bright future under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam.
Earlier, the VUFO delegation laid flowers at the statue of President Ho Chi Minh in Caracas, attended a memorial service for former President Tran Duc Luong at the Vietnamese Embassy, and visited the El Cuartel de la Montarna memorial in tribute to the late President Hugo Chavez.