Vietnam flag lights up Perth Town Hall for first time

This was a special highlight of a ceremony marking the 81st National Day of Vietnam, organized by the Consulate General of Vietnam in Perth.

The sight of Vietnam’s red flag with a yellow star shining in the heart of Perth brought pride and emotion to the Vietnamese community in Western Australia, serving as a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s identity and growing stature.

Speaking at the event, Consul General Pham Hai Anh recalled the significance of September 2, 1945, which marked the beginning of a new era of independence and freedom for Vietnam.

He said Vietnam continues to pursue an independent, self-reliant foreign policy while diversifying and multilateralizing its external relations.

Vietnam has diplomatic ties with 194 countries, 99 overseas representative missions, 45 comprehensive partnership frameworks or higher, and membership in 70 international organizations.

The country also maintains trade and investment relations with 230 countries and territories and is party to 17 free trade agreements.

He said Vietnam and Australia share common interests in energy transition, regional peace and stability, education, science and technology, and innovation.

He also praised the Vietnamese community in Western Australia for contributing to bilateral ties while preserving cultural traditions and maintaining connections with their homeland.

Western Australian Premier Roger Cook said relations between Vietnam and Western Australia were developing strongly, with considerable room to expand two-way trade and investment.

Cook said Vietnam’s rapid economic growth was opening up new opportunities for businesses on both sides and affirmed that the country plays a key role in Western Australia’s strategy to deepen engagement with Southeast Asia.

He also commended the Vietnamese community’s contributions to Western Australia in business, education, science, agriculture, and cultural diversity.