An online symposium showcasing the importance of citizen diplomacy in the development of ties between Vietnam and Russia was recently held in Moscow, with more than 100 representatives from social organizations, Government agencies, scholars, businessmen, and students in attendance, all of whom have contributed to developing mutual ties.

At the event (Photo:VNA)

As part of his remarks, Prof. Ph.D. of economics Vladimir Buyanov, president of the Russia-Vietnam Friendship Association and director of the Moscow Institute of Economics, Management and Law, said the occasion is part of a wide range of celebratory events marking bilateral ties. Indeed, it is important that today's young people gain a clear understanding of the long-standing friendship between the two nations, especially amid an ever-changing world.

Prof. Buyanov said he hopes the seminar will serve to introduce fresh measures and approaches aimed at developing people's diplomacy.

During his speech at the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia Ngo Duc Manh highlighted the seminar as a prime example of the fruitful co-operation between the friendship associations of the two countries.

Ambassador Manh also expressed his confidence regarding the sound relationship and important role in launching activities by the friendship associations of both countries. Indeed, the Vietnamese diplomat is hopeful that they will continue to be promoted in the near future, adding that long-term co-operation and regular exchanges will offer an important contribution to embellishing the glorious history between the two nations and their respective citizens.

During her address, Nguyen Phuong Nga, chairwoman of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations, said, “Achievements in multiple fields in the comprehensive Vietnam-Russia strategic partnership have shown the vitality of the strong friendship between the people of the two countries. This is an important premise for us to strongly strengthen the exchange and co-operation between Vietnamese and Russian people. I believe that the event will open up many new initiatives and co-operation projects to help create strong breakthroughs for the two friendship associations.”

Most notably, approximately 15 reports presented by both sides touched upon a range of aspects and experiences in promoting citizen diplomacy as a means of boosting the relationship the country enjoys with Russia.

Furthermore, there were a series of roundtable discussions held on topics such as people's diplomacy in promoting international co-operation, experience of co-operation between social organisations from both countries, and the strategic objectives and the ideology of people's diplomacy in present conditions.

Moving forward, the Russia-Vietnam Friendship Association's business promotion centre will also organise meetings between entrepreneurs from both nations.