Vietnamese President Tô Lâm and Russian President Vladimir Putin raised a toast at the State banquet hosted at the Hà Nội Opera House. — VNA/VNS Photo Nhan Sáng

HÀ NỘI — President Tô Lâm hosted a banquet in Hà Nội on Thursday evening in honour of Russian President Vladimir Putin, who is on a State visit to Việt Nam.

In his speech, President Lâm noted that President Putin's visit coincides with the 30th anniversary of the signing of the Treaty on the Basic Principles of Friendly Relations between Việt Nam and Russia, opening up a new phase in the traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries.

The President expressed his gratitude for the unwavering support provided by the people of the former Soviet Union and the Russian Federation nowadays during Việt Nam's past struggle for national independence, freedom, and reunification, as well as in its ongoing process of national construction and development. He stressed that tens of thousands of Vietnamese students had been educated in Russia, becoming a valuable human resource contributing significantly to Việt Nam's development.

Acknowledging the steadfast friendship between the two nations, President Lâm described it as an invaluable asset founded by generations of leaders and citizens, nurtured and passed on to future generations.

Congratulating Russia on its significant development achievements under President Putin’s steadfast leadership, he expressed his firm confidence that with the determined leadership and efforts of its people, Russia will continue to grow strong, maintain political and social stability, develop a dynamic economy, and increasingly enhance its role and prestige as a power.

The two sides have been working closely together at multilateral forums and international organisations, protecting the legitimate interests of each country and contributing to the international community’s efforts in addressing global challenges, President Lâm said.

The Vietnamese leader expressed his desire for future bilateral cooperation to continue growing in national defence-security, science and technology, culture, education, sports, and people-to-people exchanges. Despite global and regional economic uncertainties, Việt Nam and Russia have maintained positive growth, especially expanding cooperation in the energy, and oil and gas sectors.

Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks at the banquet. — VNA/VNS Photo Nhan Sáng

Speaking at the banquet, President Putin expressed his admiration for Việt Nam's achievements over the years, particularly its remarkable socio-economic development. He affirmed that the Southeast Asian nation deserves to be recognised as one of the most dynamic developing ones in the Asia-Pacific.

Recalling a history of bilateral bonds, President Putin stated that this visit would open new horizons, further enhancing and consolidating the comprehensive strategic partnership between the countries toward a prosperous future for their peoples.

He urged both sides to work together for the progress of their nations and the well-being of their citizens, as well as for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.

At the event, Việt Nam's symphony orchestra and renowned artists specialising in chamber and traditional music delivered performances related to both nations, conveying messages of friendship and hospitality to Russian friends. — VNS