HCM City (VNA) – Ho Chi Minh City wants and is ready to cooperate with Belgian localities and partners in key sectors, including education, healthcare, environmental protection, and science and technology, turning these promising areas into projects to realise the friendly relations between Vietnam and Belgium, a municipal official has said.
At a meeting on April 3 with King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium, who are on a state visit to Vietnam, Secretary of the Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Nguyen Van Nen praised the Belgian Chamber of Representatives for being the first foreign parliament to pass a resolution supporting victims of Agent Orange in Vietnam in October 2023, thus helping to raise international attention and support for Agent Orange victims.
The Belgian Parliament's decision is a moral act of profound significance towards the Vietnamese people, because up to now, not only the Vietnamese people but also those who used Agent Orange in Vietnam and the following generations are suffering from the effects of this toxic substance, he noted.
Nen also expressed heartfelt gratitude to Queen Mathilde, who is the Honorary President of UNICEF Belgium, for her tireless efforts in advancing healthcare, education, and support for vulnerable children in Vietnam, particularly in Ho Chi Minh City. He thanked Belgium for its vital support during the city's fight against the COVID-19 pandemic.
King Philippe underscored the importance of reinforcing solidarity between Belgium and Vietnam, especially in today's unpredictable changes in the world situation, and stressed the need for intensified cooperation between the two nations.
The King said Belgian businesses joining this visit not only want to showcase Belgium's economic potential but also explore opportunities for contributing to social fields in Vietnam, such as supporting disadvantaged children.
Belgium’s focus on social projects aims to provide meaningful, long-term benefits to local communities, further solidifying the relationship between the two nations. Additionally, Belgium is keen to boost cooperation with small and medium-sized enterprises in sectors where the country holds significant expertise.
During their stay in Ho Chi Minh City, King Philippe and Queen Mathilde will visit the War Remnants Museum and Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, and participate in several other activities./.
