The traditional friendship and comprehensive strategic partnership between Vietnam and Russia, and Tri An Hydropower Plant – a landmark in the bilateral relationship – were highlighted at a meeting in the southern province of Dong Nai on June 18.

Tri An hydropower plant – Landmark in Vietnam-Russia friendship 

In 1984, with the assistance of the former Soviet Union, the construction of the Tri An Hydropower Plant began in Vinh Cuu district, Dong Nai province, in the context that Vietnam was facing a serious electricity shortage. 

During the construction, the former Soviet Union sent about 500 experts, engineers and technicians to Dong Nai to provide financial and technical support for the Vietnamese side. 

After four years of construction, the 400 MW plant was put into operation. Currently, it generates about 1.8-1.9 billion kWh to the national power grid, according to the provincial Union of Friendship Organisations. 

Nguyen Hoa Hiep, Vice Chairwoman of the provincial People’s Committee, said the plant has ensured energy for socio-economic development in 16 southern cities and provinces. 

The former Soviet Union helped Vietnam with design, machines, equipment and training of engineers and high-quality workers, she said. 

The official highlighted the fruitful development of the Vietnam-Russia relations across spheres, from external affairs and state diplomacy to cooperation between localities. 

The two sides have paid more attention to relations between their localities, focusing on affiliation in economy, trade, investment, culture and education, she added. 

Russian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Aleksei Vladimirovich Popov said Russia backs mutually beneficial cooperation with Vietnam, expressing his belief that the bilateral friendship will be consolidated and enhanced for security, prosperity and benefits of the people of both countries. 

He affirmed Russia’s consistent priority of continuing to consolidate the comprehensive strategic partnership with Vietnam, which has been confirmed by high-ranking Russian leaders and recognised in the country’s foreign policy. 

Dong Nai’s export turnover to Russia reaches about 200 million USD each year. The province is scheduled to sign a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in economy, trade, industry and humanities with Russia’s Sverdlovsk oblast this year.