(VNF) - On the night of October 26^th, the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO) and the Vietnam - Southeast Asia Friendship Association co-hosted a cultural exchange entitled “Friendship among ASEAN: Vietnam-Philippines” celebrate the 40^th anniversary of Vietnam-Philippines diplomatic ties (1976 - 2016).

Addressing the event, Chairwoman of the Vietnam - Southeast Asia Friendship Association Phan Thi Hong Xuan reviewed key milestones in the bilateral relationship, saying this has developed fruitfully in recent years, with promoted cooperation in all fields, especially food industry, pharmaceutical production, culture and education.

In her speech, Chairwoman Xuan shared her joy at the fine development of the relationship, which was upgraded to a strategic partnership last year.

Phan Thi Hong Xuan, Chairwoman of the Vietnam-Southeast Asia Association in Ho Chi Minh City said Vietnam and the Philippines have been active members of ASEAN in recent years, praising their bilateral cooperation in culture-education, trade and defence. (Photo: VNA)

Regular exchanges of visits between the two countries’ leaders reflected their efforts to foster bilateral activities, thus further promoting cooperation programmes, she stressed, adding that the enhanced political relations create momentum for cooperation in other fields.

HCM City always takes the lead in carrying out cooperative programmes with the Philippines in human resources training, art and cuisine, contributing to strengthening the connection between the two nations, she noted.

She also expressed his belief that the Vietnam-Philippines relations will reach new achievements in various areas, bringing practical benefit to the two peoples.

Philippine Honorary Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Le Thi Phung meanwhile said the 40-year friendship between the two countries has created solidarity between the two peoples.

Highlights of their bilateral ties can be seen in politics, trade and education, she added, noting that joint education programmes have produced positive outcomes.

The event is part of a series of cultural and academic exchanges between Vietnam and the Philippines in celebration of 40 years of diplomatic ties between the two countries./.

( Compiled by VNF )