Kathmandu: The Vice President of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, Vo Thi Anh Xuan, is currently in Nepal for a three-day official visit at the invitation of Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav. This visit coincides with the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Nepal and Vietnam.
According to National News Agency Nepal, Nepal’s Non-Residential Ambassador to Vietnam, Dhan Bahadur Oli, expressed optimism that such high-level visits would further elevate bilateral relations. Nepal and Vietnam established formal diplomatic ties in 1975 and have since advanced mutual goodwill through collaboration in various sectors.
Ambassador Oli emphasized the need for new initiatives to enhance cooperation in trade, investment, tourism, and cultural exchanges between the two countries. During her visit, Vice President Xuan is expected to meet with President Ramchandra Paudel, Vice President Ram Sahay Prasad Yadav, and Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli. She will also visit the world heritage sites Patan Durbar Square and Swyambhunath.
The 50th anniversary of Nepal-Vietnam diplomatic ties has been marked by several programs this year, with Nepal planning a special event in Hanoi in October. A high-level visit from Nepal is anticipated to attend this event.
Ambassador Oli mentioned ongoing preparations for agreements between the two nations, including visa exemptions for government and diplomatic passport holders and potential investment opportunities. Potential areas for cooperation include agriculture, tourism, agro-processing, herbal production, and coffee plantation, along with joint investment ventures.
Cultural cooperation is also deemed crucial, as Buddhism serves as a strong link between the two countries. Joint efforts in cultural tourism promotion could be beneficial, particularly with the influx of Vietnamese visitors to Lumbini, potentially leading to chartered flights from Gautam Buddha International Airport.
At a meeting with Vice President Xuan, Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba sought Vietnamese support for facilitating direct flights to Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa and Pokhara International Airport. The leaders also discussed collaboration on bilateral and multilateral forums and addressing global agendas such as South-South cooperation and climate change.