Vietnam’s State President Lương Cường Meets with Communist Party of Chile President Lautaro Carmona

Santiago, The Gulf Observer: On November 10, State President Lương Cường held a meeting with President of the Communist Party of Chile, Lautaro Carmona, in Santiago, as part of his ongoing official visit to Chile.

Expressing his pleasure at visiting Chile, a nation known for its beauty and hospitality, President Cường extended his gratitude to the Chilean people, the Communist Party of Chile, and left-wing and peace-loving forces for their steadfast support and solidarity with Vietnam during its struggle for national independence and reunification, as well as its current efforts for national development under the leadership of the Communist Party of Việt Nam.

President Cường conveyed special appreciation to Carmona for his active involvement in anti-war movements during the 1970s in support of the Vietnamese people and for his continued efforts in fostering bilateral relations between the two parties and peoples. Additionally, he passed along regards and an invitation from the General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam, Tô Lâm, for Carmona to visit Vietnam at a convenient time. He expressed confidence that the Communist Party of Chile, as a member of the country’s ruling coalition, would continue to play a crucial role in the success of Chile’s left-wing government, particularly in advancing proactive foreign policies and international cooperation.

During their meeting, President Cường briefed Carmona on Vietnam’s current achievements and the role of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Despite the severe consequences of past wars and the complex international landscape, Vietnam has made remarkable strides during nearly 40 years of Đổi Mới (Renewal). He highlighted that Vietnam is now among the world’s 40 largest economies and one of the 20 fastest-growing countries. He reiterated Vietnam’s commitment to a foreign policy centered on independence, peace, and proactive international integration, positioning itself as a reliable partner and a responsible member of the global community.

President Cường outlined the objectives set forth by the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam: to make Vietnam a developing country with modern industry and upper middle income by 2030, in time for the 100th anniversary of the Party, and to become a high-income developed country by 2045, coinciding with the 100th anniversary of the National Day. He emphasized that international cooperation, including from Chile, is crucial to achieving these ambitions.

Currently, Chile is Vietnam’s leading export market in Latin America, while Vietnam remains Chile’s top trade partner in ASEAN. President Cường affirmed that the Communist Party of Vietnam values its cooperation with ruling, progressive, and traditional friendly political parties, including the Communist Party of Chile, for the mutual benefit of both nations and in the interests of regional and global peace, cooperation, and development.

Cường highlighted Vietnam’s adherence to an independent path toward socialism and stressed the importance of exchanging experiences between the two Communist parties.

In his remarks, Lautaro Carmona noted that attendees at the meeting, representing multiple generations, shared a deep respect and admiration for Vietnam’s people and culture. He recalled past solidarity marches in support of Vietnam’s cause for peace and liberation, and lauded Vietnam as a model for the world, including Chile.

The Communist Party of Chile, Carmona explained, has gained valuable insights from Vietnam’s experiences in national liberation and inclusive development efforts. He acknowledged the challenges facing Chile’s governing coalition and emphasized the importance of learning from Vietnam’s model, adapted to Chile’s context.

Carmona reaffirmed Chile’s commitment, across political divides, to strengthening cooperation with Vietnam in various sectors.