Ambassador Dang Xuan Dung speaking at the event (Photo: VNA)
At the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Argentina Dang Xuan Dung reviewed Vietnam’s great achievements in the process of construction and development over the past year, especially the economic growth rate of 7.08%, total import and export turnover estimated to reach over USD482 billion, and foreign direct investment (FDI) increased 9.1% over the same period last year and reached USD19.1 billion.
He also informed about the important successes in foreign affairs that Vietnam has obtained, affirming its international position, helping Vietnam to have more faith and strength to continue its deep and effective international integration.
In terms of Vietnam – Argentina relations, the ambassador said that in 2018, the two sides celebrated 45 years of diplomatic relations with many practical activities to enhance mutual understanding. In the context of Argentina's economy and society facing many difficulties, the comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and Argentina in 2018 continued to grow; trade turnover reached nearly USD3 billion, continuing to lead in Southeast Asian countries, while delegation exchange between the two countries continued to be maintained.
The Ambassador also expressed his pleasure at the continuous development of the Vietnamese community in Argentina, integrating well with local life although they face many difficulties in the general situation of this South American country. At the same time, he expressed his wish that the overseas Vietnamese would continue to make efforts to stand up before challenges of the situation, continue to stabilize their lives, and preserve the national identity, look toward the homeland, and build the united and strong Vietnamese community in Argentina, contributing to promoting the traditional friendship between the two countries.
Mr. Dang Xuan Dung affirmed that Vietnam’s consistent policy considers the overseas Vietnamese community as an inseparable part of the Vietnamese people, hoping that the overseas Vietnamese have opportunity to visit the homeland, and contribute strength and intelligence to build and defend the nation.
On behalf of overseas Vietnamese, Ms. Nguyen Thi Doanh expressed her gratitude to the Vietnamese Embassy for always organizing activities to connect overseas Vietnamese with the homeland, affirming that they will continue to promote the spirit of solidarity in the community, towards the homeland, while connecting with local friends to promote the relationship between the two countries.
At the event, the participants also enjoyed special art programs as well as traditional dishes on the occasion of the Lunar New Year Festival of Vietnam./.