Russian President Vladimir Putin says cooperation with Vietnam withstands global changes

The interview took place in Saint Petersburg ahead of the 19th General Assembly of the Organization of Asia-Pacific News Agencies, scheduled for June 17 to 21. 

Putin also met with agency leaders from across the region as part of the event.

In response to a question from VNA's Trang about Russia's strategy for Asia, Southeast Asia, and the Vietnam–Russia comprehensive strategic partnership, Putin said Southeast Asia remains a highly promising region. 

He noted that the region's share of global economic activity and growth rate are both above the world average.

Russia's engagement with Southeast Asia continues to deepen, he said, pointing to steadily growing trade volumes. 

He emphasized the long-standing and resilient relationship between Vietnam and Russia, saying it has remained strong over time.

Putin said Russia is ready to expand its partnership with Vietnam across various sectors, including by welcoming Vietnamese companies to participate in Russia's hydrocarbon industry.

He also praised the performance of Vietnamese businesses already operating in Russia's agriculture sector and pledged to facilitate further investment.

The Russian president called education and human resource development a 'dual-benefit' area of cooperation. 

He said it helps Vietnam train a skilled workforce while strengthening people-to-people ties rooted in trust and friendship.

Putin reflected warmly on past visits to Vietnam, particularly his interactions with Vietnamese citizens who had studied in the former Soviet Union and Russia. 

"During those meetings," he said, "I didn't feel like I was abroad at all."

Most recently, Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam paid a visit to Russia and attended the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in May. 

The talks between the two countries' leaders showed how Vietnam–Russia cooperation is becoming more effective and mutually beneficial.