Minsk, May 12, 2025 — The Europe Today: As part of his official two-day State visit to Belarus, Party General Secretary Tô Lâm met on Sunday with representatives of the Belarusian Society of Friendship and Cultural Relations with Foreign Countries (BSFCRFC), the Belarus–Vietnam Friendship Association (BVFA), and former Belarusian experts who supported Vietnam during its past struggles.
The Vietnamese leader expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the long-standing solidarity and friendship shown by Belarusian comrades, including those who offered vital assistance to Việt Nam during times of hardship. He emphasized the enduring respect and gratitude of the Vietnamese people for the support provided by the former Soviet Union and, in particular, Belarus during Việt Nam’s struggle for national independence and reunification, as well as in its ongoing process of national development and defense.
Reflecting on over 30 years of diplomatic relations since their establishment in 1992, General Secretary Tô Lâm affirmed that despite challenges, the bond between the peoples of Việt Nam and Belarus has remained strong, warm, and full of mutual trust. He described this as a valuable asset that both nations must continue to cherish and preserve.
“Vietnam always attaches great importance to its traditional friendship with Belarus and wishes to deepen cooperation across all areas for the mutual benefit of our peoples, and for peace, stability, and development in the region and the world,” he said.
The Vietnamese leader also underlined the significant role that people-to-people diplomacy plays in creating a peaceful environment for sustainable development. He praised the active contributions of the BSFCRFC and the BVFA in promoting bilateral exchanges and joint projects, thereby enhancing mutual understanding and fostering closer ties between the two nations.
General Secretary Tô Lâm called on the Belarusian friendship associations to strengthen cooperation with the Việt Nam Union of Friendship Organisations and the Việt Nam–Belarus Friendship Association to expand exchange programmes that engage diverse communities, including intellectuals, businesses, and youth. These initiatives, he noted, are crucial to deepening mutual understanding and laying a strong foundation for future cooperation.
He also encouraged the associations to promote linkages among universities, professional organisations, and enterprises in both countries to develop partnerships in education and training, cultural exchange, and trade and investment.
Emphasising the importance of intergenerational continuity in bilateral relations, the Party chief urged people’s organisations to preserve and pass down the legacy of steadfast friendship and cooperation to future generations.
Earlier on the same day, General Secretary Tô Lâm and the high-ranking Vietnamese delegation paid tribute at the Victory Monument in Minsk, a solemn site commemorating those who sacrificed their lives during the Great Patriotic War. The site stands as a symbol of shared remembrance and respect, attracting visitors from Belarus and abroad.
