Russian citizens based in the country took to the polls on July 1 to take part in a vote on amendments to the Russian Constitution, with three polling stations set up in the Russian Embassy in Hanoi, and the Consulate General of Russia in both Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City.

Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Konstantin Vnukov votes in the referendum 

Featuring a total of 250 polling stations located in foreign countries worldwide, in addition to 100,000 polling stations situated across Russia, voters are going to the polls to decide on changes that could potentially see President Vladimir Putin allowed to stay in power until 2036.

Locally,  Russian Ambassador to Vietnam Konstantin Vnukov and his wife were the first two Russian citizens to vote in the referendum, which is set to be an important event for the future and destiny of Russia.

According to Ambassador Vnukov, if granted approval by the Russian people, the new Russian constitution will become one of the most progressive in the world.

The proposed constitutional changes will see priority given to developing ties with comprehensive partners and strategic allies, including Vietnam.

The Russian Ambassador believes that changes to the constitution will serve to have a positive impact on the relationship between the two countries, ultimately serving to boost economic co-operation and maintaining the close ties of friendship enjoyed by both sides.