The Vietnamese diplomat made the statement while addressing a banquet organised by the Chinese Embassy in Vietnam at the Vietnam - China Friendship Palace in Hanoi on January 20, to celebrate the 68th anniversary of Vietnam - China diplomatic ties (January 18, 1950-2018).
The event was attended by Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh, Vice Chairman of the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China Chen Zhu, and Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam Hong Xiao Yong.
In his speech, Deputy FM Trung stated that the traditional friendly and neighbourly relations between Vietnam and China, founded by the late Presidents Ho Chi Minh and Mao Zedong and nurtured by the following generations of the two countries’ leaders, are a valuable asset of the two Parties, countries and people that must be passed down, safeguarded and promoted.
Deputy Foreign Minister Le Hoai Trung speaks at the banquet. (Photo: NDO/Ngoc Toan)
In their foreign policy of independence, self-reliance, multilateralisation and diversification, the Vietnamese Party, State and people always treasure the friendly neighbourliness and comprehensive cooperation with the Chinese Party, State and people, he said, stressing that it is a consistent and long-term guideline, strategic choice and top priority in Vietnam’s foreign policy.
Chinese Ambassador Hong Xiao Yong congratulated Vietnam on its encouraging achievements in 2017, affirming that China is willing to join the Vietnamese side in strengthening political trust and enhancing people-to-people exchanges, aiming to create a strong foundation for the development of Vietnam-China relations.
Chinese Ambassador to Vietnam Hong Xiao Yong addresses the event. (Photo: NDO/Ngoc Toan)
The Vietnam - China ties have been entering a new stage of development with significant opportunities to enhance its quality and efficiency, the official said, voicing his belief that the bilateral relations would reach new heights, reap more prolific results and bring practical benefits for the people of both countries.
As part of the banquet, a photo exhibition featuring the beauty of China’s Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region was held, in addition to an art programme celebrating 68 years of Vietnam - China diplomatic ties.
Deputy PM Pham Binh Minh (right) presents a gift to the Vietnam - China Friendship Palace. (Photo: NDO/Ngoc Toan)
Art performances celebrate 68 years of Vietnam - China diplomatic ties. (Photo: NDO/Ngoc Toan)
