The Russian Embassy organised a ceremony in Hanoi on June 11 to mark the 25th anniversary of Russia’s Independence Day (June 12, 1990 – June 12, 2015), featuring Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Konstantin Vasilievich Vnukov and Vietnamese Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Hoang Tuan Anh.

Addressing the event, Ambassador Vnukov highlighted Russia’s socio-economic development over the past 25 years.

He also stressed that this year marks the 65th anniversary of Vietnam-Russia diplomatic ties and reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to support and cooperate with Vietnam in all fields, contributing to the development of their long-standing bilateral relations.

For his part, Minister Hoang Tuan Anh said Vietnam treasures its traditional ties with Russia and reiterated that 2015 will be a milestone for the two countries’ relations, given the signing of the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) on May 29.

The minister believes the FTA will boost cooperation in economics, trade and investment between Vietnam and EAEU member states, including Russia.

Additionally, he hoped the Vietnam-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership would be strengthened and would translate into benefits for the people of both nations and for peace, stability and prosperity of the region and the globe.

On the occasion, Ambassador Konstantin Vasilievich Vnukov, on behalf of the Russian President, awarded Russia’s Friendship Order to Minister Hoang Tuan Anh and former Ambassador to Russia Pham Xuan Son, who is currently Standing Vice Chairman of the Party Central Committee’s Commission for External Relations.-VNA