Hanoi and Moscow are advancing comprehensive cooperation, with the ambitious "Moscow House in Hanoi" project taking center stage as Vietnam and Russia celebrate 75 years of diplomatic relations.

According to Nguyen Manh Quyen, Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, during a meeting with Russian Ambassador Gennady Bezdetko on April 15, the proposed cultural-commercial center aims to become a multifunctional hub combining offices, services, tourism and cultural exchange.

Hanoi People's Committee Deputy Chairman Nguyen Manh Quyen receives Russian Ambassador Gennady Bezdetko on April 15. Photo: Viet Anh/The Hanoi Times

Developed by Moscow Cultural-Commercial Center LLC, the area will cover 33,035 square meters in the Nam Tu Liem District. It symbolizes the friendship between the two capitals. 

Quyen expressed optimism for deeper ties between Hanoi and Moscow, saying the "Moscow House in Hanoi" project will become a cornerstone of cultural and economic cooperation.

However, the deputy mayor pointed out procedural hurdles, including pending official documentation from Moscow authorities to designate the investor. He urged Ambassador Bezdetko to facilitate a speedy confirmation by April 2025, allowing Hanoi to complete legal procedures and report to the prime minister.

Quyen also emphasized Hanoi's readiness to support Russian investors by presenting opportunities in industrial and high-tech zones. The two sides also discussed an upcoming Hanoi delegation visit to Russia and Belarus on May 5-13, 2025, coinciding with the 25th session of the Vietnam-Russia Intergovernmental Committee.

In St. Petersburg, the delegation plans to sign a cooperation agreement and meet with businesses to promote trade. In Moscow, discussions will focus on the "Moscow House in Hanoi" project, smart transportation, and an investment promotion conference will be held.

Ambassador Bezdetko highly appreciates the cooperation between Vietnam and Russia, especially the growing partnership between Hanoi and Russian cities through regular exchange of delegations. He revealed that both countries are negotiating an agreement to establish a Russian school in Hanoi, and more friendship projects from Russia in Vietnam are to come.

Ambassador Bezdetko assured the full support of the embassy, which will coordinate with the Moscow authorities to accelerate the "Moscow House in Hanoi" project.