The Ho Chi Minh City authorities hosted a banquet for international guests on August 29 on the occasion of the 69th anniversary of National Day (September 2).

Talking to his distinguished guests, including representatives of diplomatic corps, international organisations and businesses, Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Le Hoang Quan said that the Vietnamese people always remember and are grateful to the valuable support and assistance of the international friends for the country’s struggle for national independence in the past as well as its current development.

Highlighting Ho Chi Minh City ’s efforts to become an economic hub of the country, he stressed that the city will strive to become a friendly destination for all international friends, especially investors.

“We are ready to welcome partners who wish for long-term cooperation in the city and the country as well,” he said.

On behalf of the guests, Russian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Anatoly Borovik spoke highly of the city’s achievements, saying that it has become more attractive to foreign businesses.

In the first eight months of this year, the city attracted 241 projects worth over 1 billion USD and received 2.7 million international tourists.-VNA