At the ceremony to mark the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam – Finland diplomatic relations and 106th Independence Day of Finland in Ho Chi Minh City on December 6. (Photo: VNA)Finnish Ambassador Keijo Norvanto highlighted that both nations have enjoysound ties over the past five decades, with their long-lasting traditionaldevelopment partnership elevated to the practical bilateral cooperation ties.
Their social and economic strengths have complemented, helping each otherbecome more sustainable, competitive and prosperous, he said, adding Vietnamhas been the largest trading partner of Finland in Southeast Asia.
The Finnish Embassy and the Finnish chamber of commerce in Ho Chi Minh Citywill continue serving as a bridge to boost bilateral trade and cooperation.
As a long-term partner of the Vietnamese southern economic hub, Finland hasbeen present and made contributions to the Week for Ho Chi Minh CityInnovation, Startup and Entrepreneurship (WHISE) towards cooperation in thefields of the city’s interests such as smart urban area, sustainability,circular economy, green port, and digital transformation, he stressed.
He also expressed his delight over the restart of cooperation at local levelsin 2023, with many delegations from Finland’s cities visiting Ho Chi Minh Cityand vice versa, saying they have joined hands to discover the specific areas ofboth sides’ interests, and shared professional experience to serve each other’sbenefits.
Vice Chairman of the municipalPeople’s Committee Vo Van Hoan, for his part, congratulated Finland for itsstrong political system and socio-economic achievements after 106 years of establishment.
Spotlighting the robust development in the diplomatic ties,friendship relations and multifaceted cooperation between the two nations, Hoansaid that Vietnam has treasured and borne in its mind the support from Finlandduring the struggle for national independence in the past, and the national constructioncause nowadays.
He went on to say that Ho Chi Minh City is a leading localities carrying outcooperative activities with Finland, adding with 22 projects valued at morethan 3.5 million USD, the European country now ranks 53rd among 120countries and territories having investment in the city.
Delegation exchanges have been promoted between the two sides, demonstratingtheir resolve to promote the bilateral relations, he added.
He expressed his belief that despite global headwinds with non-traditionalsecurity challenges such as pandemics and climate change, Vietnam and Finland,with their dogged determination and creativity, will turn challenges intoopportunities, and join hands to develop for the befits and prosperity of eachnation and the whole world./.
VNA
