The ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Le Thi Thu Hang; representatives from central ministries, sectors and agencies; diplomatic missions and international organisations; members of the business community; and numerous Norwegian friends and partners in Viet Nam.
Addressing the event, Ambassador Hilde Solbakken highlighted the historical significance and core values of the Norwegian Constitution, one of the oldest constitutions in the world, which has endured and evolved over the past 212 years. According to the Ambassador, foundational principles such as democracy, the rule of law and respect for human rights not only reflected Norway’s aspiration for independence when the constitution was established in 1814, but also continue to serve as guiding principles for the country’s development in the modern era.
Ambassador Hilde Solbakken affirmed that this year’s celebration carries special significance as it coincides with the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Viet Nam and Norway. Norway’s recognition of Viet Nam as a sovereign nation in 1971, while the war was still ongoing, demonstrated its commitment to peace, human dignity and international solidarity. Over more than half a century, bilateral relations have continued to strengthen and develop, evolving from support during difficult periods into a comprehensive and forward-looking partnership founded on trust and shared values.
Emphasising that the world is currently facing numerous challenges, including conflicts and instability affecting global trade and energy security, the Ambassador stressed that long-term partnerships based on trust and common interests are becoming increasingly important.
Notably, during her tenure in Viet Nam, Ambassador Hilde Solbakken acknowledged positive developments in bilateral cooperation, particularly the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on a Green Strategic Partnership between Norway’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Viet Nam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Environment in April 2026. The framework is considered an important mechanism for promoting cooperation in green economy, circular economy and sustainable marine economy, thereby supporting Viet Nam’s green transition process.
Speaking at the ceremony on behalf of the Vietnamese Government, Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang extended congratulations to the Government and people of Norway on the occasion of the National Day, while highly appreciating Norway’s positive contributions to Viet Nam’s socio-economic development over many years.
Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang emphasised that 2026 marks 55 years of Viet Nam–Norway diplomatic relations built on a foundation of trust, sincerity and cooperation for peace and development. She affirmed that Viet Nam always values Norway’s precious support during the war years as well as throughout the country’s reconstruction and development process, with total official development assistance (ODA) exceeding 320 million USD.
According to the Deputy Minister, bilateral relations continue to be strengthened, particularly following the establishment of the Green Strategic Partnership, opening up numerous opportunities for cooperation in promising sectors such as marine economy, renewable energy and climate change response. Viet Nam is currently Norway’s second-largest trading partner in ASEAN, while both sides are also working towards promoting a free trade agreement with the EFTA bloc.
Affirming the huge cooperation potential between the two countries, Deputy Minister Le Thi Thu Hang stressed that Viet Nam regards Norway as a trusted partner and wishes to continue advancing strategic cooperation frameworks, contributing to deeper and more effective bilateral relations for the benefit of the peoples of both countries.
