Vietnam, India strengthen friendship

Hanoi, December 17 (VNA) – President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO) Phan Anh Son chaired a discussion with an Indian delegation in Hanoi on December 16 to share insight on Vietnam’s current situation and enduring friendship between Vietnam and India, as part of the 12th Vietnam-India People's Friendship Festival.

Son welcomed the 37-member delegation from the All India Peace and Solidarity Organisation (AIPSO) led by its Secretary General Harchand Singh, believing that cooperation between VUFO, the Vietnam-India Friendship Association (VIFA) and AIPSO will thrive in the future.

He suggested that during the festival, both sides should focus on updating the latest developments in their respective countries, reviewing the progress of their fine traditional relations built and nurtured by Vietnamese President Ho Chi Minh and Indian Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru, and suggesting ideas to deepen bilateral ties, especially in people-to-people exchange.

Singh, for his part, stressed that cultural and music exchanges at the festival are crucial for further strengthening traditional friendship between the two countries’ people.

The festival's itinerary promises a rich experience, beginning with an opening ceremony in Vinh Phuc province, followed by discussions on Vietnam's current situation, and wrapping up with a closing ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City. Delegates will pay homage to President Ho Chi Minh at his mausoleum, tour the historic Presidential Palace, and explore various cultural, economic and historical sites across Hanoi, Vinh Phuc and Ho Chi Minh City. Additionally, they will meet with the Vietnamese Minister of Information and Communications, the VIFA President, leaders of several provinces, as well as hold working sessions with the VUFO and VIFA branches in Ho Chi Minh City.

Since its inception in 2007, the festival has alternated annually between Vietnam and India, providing a unique platform for both nations to reflect on key historical milestones in their long-standing friendship. It not only facilitates cultural exchanges but also fosters discussions on enhancing cooperation in socio-economic and people-to-people exchange domains./.