Participants pose for a group photo at the banquet.—VNA/VNS Photo Xuân Khu

HCM CITY — Authorities of HCM City hosted a banquet on Thursday evening to celebrate the 79th anniversary of Việt Nam’s National Day (September 2, 1945 - 2024).

The event saw the attendance of representatives from consulates general, international organisations, economic and cultural offices, foreign business associations and non-governmental organisations operating in the southern largest economic hub.

In his welcoming remarks, Phan Văn Mãi, Deputy Secretary of the municipal Party Committee and Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, recalled the historic milestones of the nation.

He emphasised that 79 years ago, under the leadership of President Hồ Chí Minh and the Communist Party of Việt Nam, the people launched a general uprising to gain national independence and establish the Democratic Republic of Việt Nam, now the Socialist Republic of Việt Nam, marking a new era in the nation’s history.

The official affirmed HCM City’s commitment to closely coordinate and fully support the activities of consular offices and international organisations in the city.

He expressed his hope that foreign consuls general as well as heads of international organisations, economic-cultural offices and business associations would continue to serve as bridges between Việt Nam, particularly HCM City, and international friends and partners around the world, contributing significantly to fostering the sides’ strong cooperative relations.

At the ceremony, Josefine Wallat, German Consul General and head of the consular corps in the city, said that the corps wishes to strengthen cooperation and trade exchange with Việt Nam, including the southern economic hub.

She emphasised the consular corps' readiness to contribute to the city's impressive development, not only by sharing professional expertise but also through activities that promote bilateral trade, cultural exchanges, and high-level dialogue. — VNS