Hanoi (VNA) - State President Luong Cuong has praised outgoing Chilean Ambassador to Vietnam Sergio Narea Guzman for his role in fostering and developing Vietnam-Chile Comprehensive Partnership, which was established nearly two decades ago.
At a reception in Hanoi on July 11 for the diplomat, President Cuong spoke highly of Narea Guzman’s contributions during his tenure, noting his success in orchestrating high-level visits and meetings, as well as strengthening practical and effective collaboration across a spectrum of areas.
Reflecting on the long-standing friendship founded by late President Ho Chi Minh and late Chilean President Salvador Allende, he highlighted the two nations’ shared stances on global issues and their active support for each other at international forums, particularly within the United Nations framework.
President Cuong expressed Vietnam’s commitment to further deepening diplomatic, economic, and people-to-people connections with Chile.
The leader noted with pleasure that Vietnam-Chile political and diplomatic ties have grown closer and more trustworthy via Party, State, and people-to-people channels. In terms of trade, Chile has become Vietnam’s fourth largest trading partner in Latin America, with two-way trade surpassing 1.7 billion USD in 2024. Vietnam also remains Chile’s largest trading partner in ASEAN. However, these figures still fall short of the full potential, he said, urging both sides to work toward stronger economic and trade ties to match the strength of their political relations.
On this occasion, President Cuong asked the ambassador to convey his warm regards and best wishes to Chilean President Gabriel Boric, along with his invitation to visit Vietnam at a mutually convenient time.
Narea Guzman, for his part, said during his tenure, he has made efforts to advance not only political, diplomatic, trade, people-to-people exchanges, but also joint work in agriculture, culture, national defence and security.
Chile will continue partnering with Vietnam at international organisations and multilateral forums, contributing to the development of both nations and for peace and stability in their respective regions and beyond, he said.
The ambassador pledged to make further contributions to the enduring friendship between the two countries in any future position./.
