Hanoi (VNA) – The practical activities and achievements of the former Vietnam–Soviet Friendship Association, as well as the curent Vietnam–Russia Friendship Association (VRFA), clearly demonstrate and reaffirm the significant role of people-to-people diplomacy in the relations between the two countries, said Do Van Chien, President of the Vietnam Fatherland Front (VFF) Central Committee.
Addressing a ceremony to mark the 75th founding anniversary of the VRFA (May 23, 1950 – 2025) and Vietnam–Russia diplomatic relations (January 30, 1950 – 2025) in Hanoi on May 23, Chien highlighted the fruitful development of the bilateral relations, noting that all-level delegation exchanges and meetings have been maintained regularly through all channels, and many cooperation mechanisms have been established across areas.
The traditional friendship between Vietnam and Russia boasts long-standing history, nurtured through generations of leaders and people from both countries and withstood the test of time, affirming its enduring historical values and serving as an important foundation for a brighter future, he said.
High-level visits between the two countries' leaders, especially the visit to Vietnam by Russian President Vladmir Putin in June last year, and Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam’s official visit to Russia and his attendance at the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War in May 2025, have further strengthened political trust and opened up new directions for multi-faceted cooperation, commensurate with the scope of Vietnam–Russia relations in the new historical phase, for the development and prosperity of both nations and meeting their long-term interests, Chien added.
Over the years, the VRFA has consistently adhered to the Party and State's orientations and policies on people-to-people diplomacy, with continual innovation in both contents and forms of activities, focusing on improving the practicality and effectiveness of its work.
The significant achievements made by the association, alongside Party diplomacy and State diplomacy, have contributed to deepening the traditional solidarity and friendship, and close ties between the people of Vietnam and Russia, he said.
He suggested that in the future, the VRFA should take a more proactive role in strengthening existing partnerships and forming new ones. This includes leveraging support, coordination, and collaboration from the Russian people's organisations and individuals. Furthermore, expanding international relations will help create a diverse network of friends and collaborators across various fields, ultimately enhancing mutual trust and understanding and deepening the Vietnam-Russia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
At the event, Chien awarded the Prime Minister’s Certificate of merit to the VRFA for its exceptional achievements in fostering people-to-people diplomacy between Vietnam and Russia, which contributes to the nation’s socialist construction and national defence efforts./.
