Vietnam and New Zealand Celebrate 50 Years of Diplomatic Relations
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: The New Zealand Embassy in Hanoi hosted a reception on Thursday evening to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and New Zealand (June 19, 1975 – 2025), marking a milestone in a friendship that has evolved into a dynamic and comprehensive partnership.
Speaking on behalf of the Vietnamese Government, Minister of Education and Training Nguyễn Kim Sơn highlighted that New Zealand was among the first Western countries to establish diplomatic ties with Vietnam following its independence and national reunification in 1975. He noted that the past five decades have witnessed the continuous development and strengthening of bilateral relations across multiple sectors.
“The Việt Nam–New Zealand relationship has achieved remarkable progress,” Minister Sơn said. “From the Comprehensive Partnership established in 2009, to the Strategic Partnership in 2020, and most recently, the elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in February this year—the highest level of diplomatic engagement Việt Nam maintains with any country.”
Minister Sơn emphasized that New Zealand has become one of Vietnam’s most important partners in the region, underpinned by a high level of political trust and robust cooperation in defense, security, trade, and investment. Key areas of collaboration such as agriculture, education, science and technology, and climate change response have continued to deepen. Bilateral trade has grown steadily, rising from US$300 million in 2009 to over US$1.3 billion today.
He also expressed sincere gratitude for New Zealand’s official development assistance (ODA), which has played a meaningful role in supporting Vietnam’s socio-economic development. “People-to-people exchanges have also become increasingly vibrant, fostering stronger cultural ties and deeper mutual understanding,” the minister added.
On the international stage, the two countries have maintained close coordination, sharing a common vision for peace, sustainable development, and a peaceful, stable, and prosperous Asia-Pacific region.
New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam Caroline Beresford, in her remarks, praised the progress made over the past 50 years, stating that both nations have continuously worked together to strengthen friendship, cooperation, and mutual understanding.
“Our partnership is grounded in shared interests, mutual respect for international law, and a common approach to global issues,” Ambassador Beresford said. “We believe our complementary strengths can continue to foster cultural understanding, build trust, bring prosperity, and contribute to regional peace and stability.”
The event served not only as a celebration of five decades of cooperation but also as a reaffirmation of both nations’ commitment to advancing their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in the years ahead.
