Indian minister expresses pride in accompanying Vietnam's development

The meeting took place during Minister Rijiju’s visit to attend the United Nations (UN) Day of Vesak 2025, a three-day event hosted by Ho Chi Minh City starting Tuesday at the Vietnam Buddhist Academy in Binh Chanh District.

Minister Rijiju thanked the city’s authorities and residents for their warm welcome and congratulated Ho Chi Minh City on its role as host of the major Buddhist celebration.

He recalled his first visit to Vietnam in 2004 and noted the changes that have taken place since then, particularly in the southern city.

He highlighted the strong similarities between India and Vietnam, including dynamic economic growth.

While bilateral trade reached US$15 billion in 2024, Rijiju emphasized that there remains significant potential for deeper cooperation.

Secretary Nen stressed the significance of the visit, which coincides with both Vietnam’s 50th anniversary of national reunification and its hosting of the UN Day of Vesak.

He expressed appreciation to the Indian government and people for facilitating the respectful transfer to and ceremonial enshrinement of the sacred relics of Shakyamuni Buddha in Vietnam.

Proud to host the UN Day of Vesak 2025, the city aims to help spread meaningful messages of solidarity, equality, and peace to the world.

Nen affirmed that the city is committed to turning joint declarations and cooperation agreements signed by both countries’ leaders into concrete actions, contributing to a more substantive Vietnam–India comprehensive strategic partnership.

He also expressed hope that the two countries would fully tap into their potential to strengthen cooperation in investment, trade, tourism, and people-to-people exchanges.

Vietnam and India established diplomatic relations on January 7, 1972. The two nations entered into a strategic partnership in 2007, which was elevated to a comprehensive strategic partnership in 2016.