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| Mr. Duong Ngoc Hai (second from left), Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, and Mr. Agustaviano Sofjan (second from right), Indonesian Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City, at the celebration. (Photo: VNA) |
Mr. Hai congratulated Indonesia on its achievements in recent years and highlighted that the strategic partnership between Vietnam and Indonesia is growing stronger, broader, and more effective across various areas, including politics, diplomacy, defense, security, economy, culture, education and people-to-people exchanges. Trade is a key highlight of the economic relationship, with continuous growth reaching nearly USD14 billion in 2023, a significant increase compared to previous years, and a target of USD18 billion by 2028.
In 2023, trade between Ho Chi Minh City and Indonesia accounted for approximately 30% of the total trade volume between the two countries. Indonesia ranks among the top 20 foreign investors in Ho Chi Minh City, with increased investment in recent years across various sectors, including manufacturing, retail, food processing and real estate. Additionally, cooperation between Ho Chi Minh City and Indonesia in cultural and educational exchanges has deepened.
Expressing confidence in the potential for further collaboration, the Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee emphasized the city's commitment to advancing economic, cultural and educational partnerships with Indonesia, in alignment with the efforts of both governments. The city aims to strengthen cooperation, particularly in technology, green development and digital transformation, contributing to a shared vision of a friendly, prosperous and sustainable Southeast Asia.
At the event, Mr. Agustaviano Sofjan, Indonesian Consul General to Ho Chi Minh City, highlighted the significant achievements of the strategic partnership between Indonesia and Vietnam, noting impressive bilateral trade growth. Economic cooperation between Indonesia and Vietnam reached USD13.8 billion in 2023.
He stressed that, as key members of ASEAN, both Indonesia and Vietnam contribute greatly to the region's dynamism and growth. Looking ahead, the potential for partnership between the two countries is vast. In 2025, Indonesia and Vietnam will celebrate 70 years of diplomatic relations, further promoting cooperation for a brighter future./.