National Day Message by H. E. Mr. Doan Tuan Linh, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the Republic of Bulgaria
September 2 every year is a date of significance for Vietnamese people as on this date 75 years ago, President Ho Chi Minh, the great statesman of our nation, proclaimed the independence of the Democratic Republic of Viet Nam - now the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam. In order to secure the independence, we had to overcome hardships and make sacrifice. Experiencing years fighting for independence, we have been holding in our heart the saying of our esteemed President Ho Chi Minh "Nothing is as precious as independence and freedom". This year we celebrate the 75th National Day. Despite difficulties caused by the Covid-19 pandemic that Viet Nam and countries worldwide are facing, we, at home and abroad, find different ways of sharing this moment.
For the past 75 years, following the glories in national independence and reunification, Vietnamese government and people have been making continuous efforts to build and develop the country. Though challenges are still ahead, we have gained certain achievements in socio-political stability, sustained economic growth, improved laws and legal institutions, establishment and expansion of relations with countries, active contributions at such regional and international organisations as ASEAN, ASEM, UN, etc. These achievements are proof of our nation's strong will, not only during times of war but also in time of peace. We have been pursuing the goals of developing the country, bringing happy life to our people and building a better world together with the international community.
Speaking of international cooperation, 2020 is a year of significance for Viet Nam as we at the same time hold the positions of ASEAN Chair and non-permanent member of the UNSC. However, 2020 is a very unusual year when all of us are struggling with the Covid-19 pandemic. In that context, Viet Nam has been trying its best to successfully fulfill these roles. In terms of international economic cooperation, success of Viet Nam this year is EVFTA's ratification by the European Parliament in June. The agreement has come into effect since August, opening up opportunities for Viet Nam's economy in the coming years.
Looking at the historical journey of fighting for national independence and reunification, constructing and developing the country, we cannot forget the assistance given by countries, friends, and international community in which Bulgaria is included. Following the support for Viet Nam in the fight for national independence and reunification, Bulgaria is one among the first 10 countries in the world recognising and establishing diplomatic relations with Viet Nam since the early years after Viet Nam gained independence. President Ho Chi Minh's official visit to Bulgaria in 1957 laid the foundation for relations between Viet Nam and Bulgaria. Over 70 years since the establishment of diplomatic relations, we have witnessed progresses of the two countries' cooperation in areas of politics, trade, education, etc. As a traditional friend of Bulgaria, Viet Nam values the support of Bulgaria on the path to international integration. We hold strong belief that further discussions will help the two sides identify cooperation fields of priority with a view to deepening the two countries' relations in the future.
The National Day's celebration every year is not only an opportunity for us to look back on our historical path but also think about our plans. 2020 is a very challenging year for all of us. However, with joint efforts, I am confident that together we will overcome this difficult time and a bright future awaits us.
The photo is provided by the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Republic of Bulgaria.