Leaders from government ministries, central agencies, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City and central Da Nang city attended the meeting.

Deputy PM Khiem, who is also Foreign Minister and head of the national steering committee for the celebrations, emphasised the importance of the ties and the ensuing celebratory activities.

Deputy Foreign Minister Le Cong Phung, member of the steering committee, entrusted the ministries, agencies and localities with specific tasks to prepare for the celebrations, which will include meetings, cultural and sports exchanges, and trade fairs.