This was stated by the Vietnamese Ambassador to Russia, Bui Dinh Dinh, at a press briefing on October 21 held by the Vietnamese Embassy and the Russian International News Agency (RIA Novosti).

Mr Dinh briefed the participants on major events in both countries in recent times, including the Russian 65^th anniversary of victory in the Great Patriotic War, Vietnam’s 65^th National Day, the 35^th anniversary of the Liberation of Southern Vietnam, the 1,000^th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi, and the 60^th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between both countries.

Mr Dinh emphasised that Vietnam always attaches a lot of importance to strengthening its traditional and friendship with Russia. Leaders from both countries often exchange visits to develop the friendship and strategic partnership to new heights.

Bilateral co-operation relations between the two countries have been developing rapidly in politics, economics and culture.

The two-way trade turnover between both countries increased from US$200-300 million in the 1990s to US$1.829 billion in 2009.