(VNF) - The Vietnam – Ukraine Friendship Association (VUFA) held a ceremony in Hanoi on August 19 celebrating the 26th anniversary of National Day of Ukraine (August 24) and the 25th anniversary of bilateral diplomatic ties (January 23).

Friendly exchange marks Ukraine's National Day in Hanoi. (Photo: VNF/Thu Phuong)

The event attracts the participation of Ukraine Ambassador to Vietnam Oleksiy Shovkoplias, Belarus Ambassador to Vietnam Vladimir Goshin, VUFA President Dang Van Chien and Vietnamese Former Ambassador to Ukraine Nguyen Minh Tri.

Speaking at the event, VUFA President Dang Van Chien said though many historical changes, Vietnam and Ukraine have always been traditional friends and trusted partners. During the Soviet Union time, the State and People of Ukraine helped to train thousands of Vietnamese scientists and technicians, many of whom have made active contributions to the construction and restoration of Vietnam.

VUFA President Dang Van Chien. (Photo: VNF/Thu Phuong)

As soon as Ukraine declared its independence, the two countries established official diplomatic relations on January 23, 1992 and regularly carried out exchange activities. Bilateral trade between the two countries reached USD 540 million in 2008. Due to effects of the world economic crisis and Ukraine's internal politics in recent years, bilateral trade has been affected and tended to fall. In 2016 bilateral trade only reached USD 264.4 million. However, Mr Dang Van Chien hailed prospects of bilateral ties across agro-fisheries, garment, machinery and spare parts, technological transfer and tourism in the future.

The VUFA and Vietnamese people in general commit to supporting Ukrainian people, he said, adding that he believes bilateral ties will continue thriving in the coming time.

Ukraine Ambassador to Vietnam Oleksiy Shovkoplias. (Photo: VNF/Thu Phuong)

Ukrainian Ambassador to Vietnam Oleksiy Shovkoplias said his government always strives to provide support for its people, including Vietnamese nationals living and working in the country.

He expressed his belief that bilateral ties will be further strengthened, particularly in trade, and Ukraine will continue receiving assistance from the Vietnamese State and people in the future./.

Ngoc Tran