Leaders of Vietnam and the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) have exchanged greeting messages on the occasion of the 65th anniversary of Vietnam-DPRK diplomatic ties (January 31).

In their messages, Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, President Truong Tan Sang, Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung and National Assembly Chairman Nguyen Sinh Hung said over the past 65 years, the traditional friendship and cooperation between the two countries have been growing in all fields.

“We believe that with joint efforts of both sides, the ties between the two Parties and nations will continue to develop strongly and effectively, benefiting people of both countries, for peace, stability, cooperation and progress in the region and the world,” they stated.

Meanwhile, First Secretary of the DPRK Workers’ Party Kim Jong-un, Chairman of the Presidium of the Supreme People’s Assembly Kim Yong-nam, Prime Minister Pak Pong-ju, and Chairman of the Supreme People’s Assembly Choe Thae-bok hailed the significant achievements that Vietnam has gained in national development process.

The DPRK leaders expressed their belief that the traditional friendship and cooperation between the two countries will further flourish, while wishing Vietnam new developments in the time ahead.

On the occasion, Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh also swapped greetings with DPRK Foreign Minister Ri Su-yong.

As part of activities to celebrate the 65th anniversary of Vietnam-DPRK diplomatic ties, the DPRK Embassy in Hanoi hosted a banquet on January 30, which was attended by many senior officials of both sides.

Addressing the event, Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs Pham Thi Hai Chuyen reviewed the 65-year history of friendship and cooperation between the two countries, affirming that Vietnam treasures the ties with the DPRK.

DPRK Ambassador Kim Chang-il pledged that the DPRK will continue exerting every effort to work with Vietnam in enhancing bilateral friendship and collaboration in all fields.-VNA