Dhaka: Vietnamese Ambassador to Bangladesh Nguyen Manh Cuong today announced that aviation authorities from both Bangladesh and Vietnam are collaborating to initiate the first direct flight between Dhaka and Hanoi within this year. "To my belief, with the establishment of the first direct flight, our partnership will continue flourishing and greatly contribute to the prosperity of both countries," he stated at a reception held at a city hotel to celebrate the 80th Vietnamese National Day.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event saw participation from diplomats stationed in Dhaka, business leaders, civil society members, and media representatives. Food and Land Adviser Ali Imam Majumder also addressed the gathering, emphasizing the strengthening ties between the two friendly nations.
The Vietnamese envoy stressed the importance of enhancing people-to-people contact to deepen the traditional friendship between the countries. He expressed gratitude for the continued support Bangladesh has extended to Vietnam over the years. On trade and investment, Ambassador Cuong highlighted the steady increase in bilateral exchanges, with annual trade volumes consistently exceeding US$1 billion.
Ambassador Cuong noted the similarities in national development journeys of Bangladesh and Vietnam, which facilitate learning and mutual support. He reminisced about over five decades of friendship, marked by regular delegation exchanges and cooperation on various forums. Both nations have consistently backed each other's bids in international organizations.
Reaffirming his commitment, the ambassador assured that the Embassy of Vietnam in Dhaka would act as a bridge of friendship and cooperation, aiming to strengthen ties between the peoples of both countries. He reflected on Vietnam's 80-year journey since 1945, during which the nation, under the leadership of the Communist Party, has maintained sovereignty and strived for prosperity.
Ambassador Cuong mentioned that Vietnam currently maintains diplomatic relations with 194 countries, partnership frameworks with 38 key partners, and plays an active role in organizations such as ASEAN, APEC, WTO, and the United Nations. He expressed gratitude to the international community for their support during Vietnam's independence struggle and ongoing nation-building efforts.