Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association: 10 Years of Cultivating Friendship

As a bridge connecting Vietnam and Singapore, the Friendship Association, founded in 2014, has played a crucial role in enhancing bilateral relations. Over the past ten years, the Association has facilitated cooperation in various fields, from economics and trade to education and culture.
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Broad network of connections

From its inception, the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association has consistently strengthened and expanded its relationships with key organizations and agencies both domestically and internationally. Partners such as the Embassy of Singapore in Vietnam, the Consulate General of Singapore in Ho Chi Minh City, the Embassy of Vietnam in Singapore, the Singapore International Foundation (SIF), and the Singapore Manufacturing Federation (SMF) have become crucial pillars of support.

Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association: 10 Years of Cultivating Friendship
A ceremony was held in October 2024 to launch the Innovative Social Enterprise Support Program, a joint initiative of the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association and its partners. (Photo: Dinh Hoa)

Additionally, close collaboration with the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations at the central and local levels, the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Associations in various localities, professional associations, and the business communities of both countries has established a robust operational network. This network serves as a solid foundation for the Association to implement impactful and meaningful programs.

According to a report by the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association, one of its most notable achievements over the past decade has been the establishment of a robust framework connecting the Vietnamese and Singaporean communities. The Association has played a pivotal role in linking the business communities of both countries, fostering trade and investment activities. Numerous seminars, discussions, and market exploration programs have been organized in both Vietnam and Singapore, drawing the participation of hundreds of enterprises.

Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association: 10 Years of Cultivating Friendship
Vietnam - Singapore Friendship Association accompanies the charity program "Ngay chu nhat yeu thuong"

Notably, the Association's delegations to Singapore have not only facilitated dialogues with policymakers but also supported Vietnamese businesses in accessing the Singaporean market. The Association has collaborated to host networking events and introduce potential partners, contributing to deepening bilateral economic relations.

These activities have created opportunities for government agencies, scientists, experts, and professional associations to work alongside businesses and investors. At the same time, they have provided a platform to understand the needs and aspirations of enterprises, while exploring favorable conditions for developing investment and business activities.

Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association: 10 Years of Cultivating Friendship
The second Central Executive Committee Conference of the Vietnam - Singapore Friendship Association, second term. (Photo: Thanh Luan)

Joining hands for the community

The charitable and social support programs of the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association have left a profound humanitarian impact. Every year, the Association collaborates with the Singapore Embassy in Vietnam to organize visits and distribute gifts to children with disabilities, the elderly living alone, and students in remote mountainous areas, bringing joy and meaningful support to those in need.

Notably, the Association has been at the forefront of supporting innovative social enterprises. The "Innovative Social Enterprise Support Program," launched in 2024, marked a significant milestone by bringing together renowned organizations from both nations to promote technological applications and enhance the competitiveness of social enterprises.

Over the past decade, the Association has demonstrated its vital role in fostering people-to-people diplomacy, aligning its activities with the socio-economic development goals of both countries. The deepening cooperation between the Association and Singaporean partners stands as a testament to its relentless efforts.

Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association: 10 Years of Cultivating Friendship
At the recent SIF Connects! Hanoi event commemorating 29 years of cooperation, Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association President Vu Viet Ngoan shared his insights. (Photo: Thuy Nguyen)

Building on success

Building on the foundation of past achievements, the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association has outlined key priorities for the upcoming phase. These include enhancing its organizational structure and expanding its development framework. The Association is committed to fostering and strengthening partnerships with agencies, organizations, and individuals in both Vietnam and Singapore. It seeks to serve as a bridge for Vietnamese and Singaporean enterprises to establish and expand collaborative ventures in mutually beneficial fields, particularly in areas such as industry, services, and construction, where Singapore has notable strengths.

Efforts will also focus on mobilizing resources for training and capacity-building programs to support innovative social enterprises, while organizing seminars and discussions aimed at promoting trade, investment, and technology transfer. Additionally, the Association plans to intensify cultural, educational, and humanitarian exchange programs, showcasing Vietnam’s culture and people to the Singaporean community.

The past decade has been a journey of continuous growth and contribution for the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association. Its impactful initiatives have not only deepened the strategic partnership between the two nations but also nurtured the bonds of friendship between their peoples. Looking ahead, the Association is dedicated to remaining a steadfast partner and a vital bridge, driving sustainable and comprehensive growth in Vietnam-Singapore relations.

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