(VNF) - The Consulate General of Vietnam in Hong Kong and Macau (China) on August 23^rd held a banquet at the Shangri-La hotel in Hong Kong to celebrate the 72^nd anniversary of Vietnam’s National Day (September 2^nd, 1945-2017) and the 50^th founding anniversary of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

The event was attended by Chief Secretary for Administrative Office Zhang Jian Zong, representatives of Hong Kong officials, international friends, staff of Vietnamese representative offices and Vietnamese expatriates living in Hong Kong.

Vietnamese General Consul to Hong Kong and Macau Hoang Chi Trung at the banquet. (Photo: VNA)

Speaking at the banquet, Vietnamese General Consul to Hong Kong and Macau Hoang Chi Trung highlighted the challenges that Vietnamese people overcame to protect national independence. Thanks to the achievements of more than three decades of Doi moi (reform), Vietnam has become an open and vibrant economy with annual economic growth of around seven percent, helping improve livelihoods, he said.

Trung stated that Vietnam pursues a policy of independence, self-reliance, peace, cooperation and development, persification of external relations, proactive international integration and is a reliable and responsible member of the international community.

In past years, Vietnam and the Chinese special administrative region have enjoyed stable relations, Trung noted, adding that both sides have made significant achievements in economic and trade relations.

Currently, Hong Kong is the sixth largest investor in Vietnam with 1,214 projects valued at USD 17.57 billion.

He expressed his hope that cooperation between the two sides will be further consolidated.

Staff of Vietnamese representative offices and Vietnamese expatriates in Hong Kong pose for a group photo.

Meanwhile, Chief Secretary for Administrative Office Zhang Jian Zong lauded Vietnam’s achievements, while saying the country has become an ideal destination for Hong Kong tourists.

With high potential, cooperation between Vietnam and Hong Kong as well as Macau will help boost the development of the comprehensive strategic partnership relations between Vietnam and China, he added./.

VNF