Vietnamese and Russian Foreign Ministers have discussed key preparations for General Secretary To Lam’s upcoming visit to Russia and his attendance at the 80th anniversary celebration of the Great Patriotic War in Moscow.

At the invitation of Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son is currently on an official visit to the Russian Federation.

Today, the two foreign ministers held bilateral talks to review the status of Vietnam–Russia cooperation and agreed on multiple measures to further strengthen ties across various fields.

They focused in particular on making the best possible preparations for General Secretary To Lam’s official visit and participation in the 80th anniversary of the Great Patriotic War, to be held in Moscow this May at the invitation of Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son emphasized that Vietnam consistently regards Russia as one of its top strategic and trusted partners in foreign policy.

Minister Lavrov affirmed that Vietnam remains a foreign policy priority for Russia in the Asia-Pacific region.

The two ministers praised the dynamic development of the Vietnam–Russia comprehensive strategic partnership across all areas. Political ties continue to be reinforced with a high level of trust, and delegations at all levels - particularly high-level ones - are exchanged frequently. Economic and trade cooperation has returned to a positive growth trajectory.

Both sides expressed satisfaction with the impressive results achieved in defense, security, education and training, science and technology, culture, tourism, and humanitarian cooperation, despite challenges posed by the current global geopolitical situation.

They agreed to jointly address obstacles in cooperation and gradually resume direct flights - moves expected to create momentum and leverage for more effective collaboration across all sectors.

The traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Russia take on renewed significance amid today’s changing global landscape. Vietnam is entering a new development era, while Russia is transitioning into a new stage of growth.

The two countries agreed to continue strengthening exchanges at all levels, especially high-level visits and people-to-people diplomacy. They will deepen cooperation in areas such as energy (with an emphasis on green and renewable sources), transportation infrastructure, logistics, science and technology, agriculture, biomedical research, culture, tourism, and education.

They also highlighted the importance of maximizing the benefits of the Vietnam–Eurasian Economic Union Free Trade Agreement. Priority will be given to implementing key projects and initiating new ones to transform economic, trade, and investment cooperation into a cornerstone of Vietnam–Russia relations.

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son requested that the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant agencies continue supporting the Vietnamese community in Russia so they can live, study, and work stably.

He also proposed that Russia consider expanding visa exemptions for Vietnamese citizens holding ordinary passports to boost tourism.

During the talks, the two sides also exchanged views on several international and regional issues of mutual concern. Vietnam acknowledged and appreciated Russia’s role and contributions in multilateral organizations and agreed to continue coordinating actions at important international forums and platforms.

Tran Thuong