Hanoi (VNA) – The Vietnam–Australia Friendship Association (VAFA) will continue promoting tourism linkages, cultural exchanges, and people-to-people interactions as well as strengthen cooperation between localities and friendship organisations of both countries to foster mutual understanding.
This was reached by members of the association at its third National Congress for the 2025-2030 held in Hanoi on July 1.
In partnership with the Vietnamese Embassy in Australia and other stakeholders, the association will continue its outreach to raise awareness and encourage a sense of responsibility among Vietnamese students and workers in Australia.
It will also encourage the Vietnamese community in Australia to comply with local laws, maintain strong connections with the homeland, contribute to bilateral friendship, and support Australian businesses in exploring opportunities in Vietnam.
The congress elected the association’s Executive Board for the new term, comprising 40 members, with Prof. Dr. Tran Tho Dat, Chairman of the Science and Training Council at the National Economics University, named President.
Addressing the event, Australian Ambassador to Vietnam Gillian Bird highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the two countries through strategic and economic partnerships, and strong people-to-people connections.
She said these connections will continue to play a vital role in strengthening the Australia–Vietnam partnership and expressed Australia’s hope to further collaborate with Vietnam, the Vietnam Union of Friendship Associations (VUFO), and the VAFA to deepen ties between the two nations and their people.
Phan Anh Son, President of the VUFO, noted that the congress takes place at a pivotal time, as Vietnam undergoes significant transformation and enters a new era of development.
In this context, diplomatic work, particularly people-to-people diplomacy, bears even greater significance and broader responsibilities, he said.
He expressed his hope that the association will capitalise on its strengths and further promote people-to-people diplomacy to enhance cooperation between both countries' localities, businesses, and organisations.
During its 2016–2025 term, under the guidance of the VUFO and with strong support from central and local agencies, mass organisations, social groups, and dedicated individuals, the VAFA played a key role in promoting people-to-people diplomacy.
It successfully integrated its activities with those of the VUFO, mobilised support and coordination from relevant ministries and local authorities, and attracted participation from domestic and international organisations and individuals./.
