Vietnam treasures the value of its peace and independence, and is thankful to Russians for their role in defeating fascism during the Second World War.

Nguyen Huu Thanh, Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City chapter of the Vietnam-Russia Friendship Association made the statement at a ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City on May 8 to mark the 69 th anniversary of the fall of Nazi Germany.

To promote the spirit of the triumph, Vietnam and Russia should further solidarity in an era of integration, cooperation and development for peace, stability and prosperity of both countries, as well as in the region and the world, he said.

Highlighting the historical significance of the former Soviet Union's victory in the Great Patriotic War, Thanh said the victory not only maintained the independence of the country but also brought an end to a serious threat to world civilisation.

Russian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Anatoli Vasilievich Borovik said Russia sees Vietnam as a faithful friend. Many Vietnamese volunteer soldiers fought with the former Soviet Union soldiers in the fierce struggle to protect Moscow in 1941, he noted.

Furthering comprehensive ties with Vietnam, especially in politics, economics, defence, is a priority in Russia’s current external policy in the Asia-Pacific, he said.-VNA