The event was attended by Camilla Mellander, head of the Trade Policy Department at the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs and former Swedish Ambassador to Vietnam; ambassadors from ASEAN member states in Sweden; local friends; and over 100 representatives from the Vietnamese community in Sweden and Latvia.
Speaking at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Sweden and Latvia Tran Van Tuan extended New Year wishes to overseas Vietnamese people. He also informed them about Vietnam's socio-economic development achievements in 2024.
Tuan noted that in 2024, Vietnam and Sweden celebrated the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations, marking a new chapter in their relationship. Numerous significant events took place in the capitals and various localities of both countries, especially the visit of Vice President Vo Thi Anh Xuan to Sweden in November, along with those by 23 other delegations from Vietnamese ministries, sectors, and localities to exchange experience and promote cooperation.
These visits further strengthened the close and trustful relationship between the two countries' leaders and people across all fields, he noted.
The ambassador affirmed his commitment to enhancing Vietnam-Sweden relations in various sectors, including exploring the potential for upgrading the partnership between the two countries.
Tuan also praised the contributions of over 22,000 Vietnamese expatriates in Sweden and Latvia to both Vietnam and their host countries in various fields, particularly in knowledge, trade, and investment.
He expressed his hope that in the Year of the Snake 2025, the Vietnamese community in the two countries will continue to uphold solidarity and mutual support, cherish their cultural values, and promote the Vietnamese language.
Representatives of the Vietnamese community expressed their joy at participating in the celebration, which featured spectacular performances by artists from the community and traditional Vietnamese dishes.