The event was attended by Speaker of the New Zealand House of Representatives (Parliament) Gerry Brownlee; Nguyen Trong Nghia, Politburo member and Head of the Central Commission for Information, Education and Mass Mobilization, along with the Vietnamese high-level delegation on a working visit to New Zealand.

Also present were Deputy Secretary at the New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade Grahame Morton; Vietnamese-born lawmaker Pham Thi Ngoc Lan; leaders of New Zealand ministries, agencies, organizations, and localities; representatives from friendship associations, educational institutions, businesses, diplomatic corps; as well as officials, students, and Vietnamese community representatives in the country.

In his speech, Vietnamese Ambassador to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang highlighted Vietnam’s achievements over the past eight decades, emphasizing the nation’s ability to overcome challenges and achieve historic milestones that built its current standing, potential, and global reputation.

He said Vietnam now stands at a new historic juncture to rise further, and called on Vietnamese people at home and abroad to unite in building a prosperous, advanced, and happy nation. He also underscored that international cooperation and support, including from New Zealand, are vital alongside the tireless efforts of the Vietnamese people.

The Vietnamese diplomat expressed deep gratitude to international friends, the people of New Zealand, and the Vietnamese community in the country for their support and great contributions to Vietnam’s development.

He voiced confidence that on the foundation of the 50 years of bilateral ties, and with the determination and close cooperation of both countries, the Vietnam-New Zealand Comprehensive Strategic Partnership will continue to grow steadily, thus bringing about a prosperous and sustainable future for the two peoples.

Speaking as guest of honor, Speaker Gerry Brownlee congratulated Vietnam on its 80th National Day, shared the joy with the Vietnamese people, and expressed admiration for the country’s progress over the past decades. He said hopes that the two countries will continue working closely to forge their comprehensive strategic partnership, delivering practical benefits for both sides.

Deputy Foreign Minister Grahame Morton, representing the New Zealand Government, also extended congratulations, praising Vietnam’s tremendous achievements and its strong commitments to peace, multilateral cooperation, and sustainable growth.

He said these achievements reflect Vietnam’s vision, unity, and potential, offering inspiration not only to the region but also to partners like New Zealand. Stressing that the comprehensive strategic partnership had opened a new chapter in bilateral ties, Morton voiced optimism about the relationship’s dynamic and sustainable growth ahead, with plenty of opportunities for cooperation.

Guests at the celebration also visited a photo exhibition highlighting 50 years of Vietnam-New Zealand relations and Vietnam’s land and people. The program featured art performances that left a strong impression on New Zealand and international friends while sparking pride and love for the homeland among the Vietnamese community. On the occasion, traditional Vietnamese cuisine was also served, offering guests a taste of the country’s rich culinary culture.

Fresh impetus for stronger and more comprehensive Vietnam-New Zealand ties

VOV.VN - Nguyen Trong Nghia, Politburo member and Head of the Central Commission for Information, Education and Mass Mobilization, will lead a high-level delegation to New Zealand from September 22 to 25 for the first high-level visit since both nations upgraded their ties to a comprehensive strategic partnership, opening plenty of opportunities for deeper cooperation across multiple fields.

Vietnam seeks stronger locality-to-locality cooperation with New Zealand

Vietnamese Ambassador to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang has highlighted the potential and strengths of the City of Palmerston North, noting its complementarity with Vietnam’s development priorities, especially in science and technology, innovation, green transition, and high-quality agriculture.