On September 10, 2025, at the Central Military Club in Sofia, the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Republic of Bulgaria

solemnly celebrated the 80th anniversary of the Proclamation of Independence of Vietnam in 1945 and the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Bulgaria in 1950.

The ceremony was attended by Mr. Atanas Zafirov, Deputy Prime Minister; Mr. Borislav Gutsanov, Minister of Labor and Social Policy; Mrs. Elena Shekerletova, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs; Mr. Simeon Saxe-Coburg-Gotha, former Prime Minister (2001–2005) and former Tsar of the Bulgarians (1943–1946); Mr. Rusi Ivanov, Secretary for Foreign Policy to the President; as well as representatives of Bulgarian ministries, institutions, and municipalities, ambassadors, diplomats, members of the Vietnamese community in Bulgaria, and friends.

At the reception, H. E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Republic of Bulgaria, delivered a welcome address. She emphasized that Vietnam has overcome numerous challenges over 80 years of nation-building and development, rising to become a dynamic country deeply integrated into the international community. During this time, Vietnam has achieved rapid and stable economic growth and aspires to become the 20th largest economy in the world. The country maintains trade relations with over 220 partners and has signed 17 free trade agreements with key counterparts, including the European Union.

The Ambassador expressed Vietnam’s gratitude to all international friends, including Bulgaria, for their solidarity, support, and cooperation over the past 80 years. She reaffirmed that Vietnam pursues a foreign policy of peace, independence, self-reliance, diversification, and multilateralism, actively contributing as a responsible member of the international community while steadfastly safeguarding its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity.

E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet also expressed satisfaction on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Bulgaria, noting that the two countries continuously nurture stronger ties through cooperation in trade, education, culture, and people-to-people exchanges. In recent years, bilateral relations have achieved significant progress in all areas. The two sides have strengthened delegation exchanges at all levels and have effectively organized regular sessions of the Intergovernmental Committee. Her Excellency reaffirmed her commitment to elevate the Vietnam–Bulgaria partnership to a new level.

On behalf of Bulgaria, Mr. Borislav Gutsanov, Minister of Labor and Social Policy, shared that it was an honour for him to speak at the reception marking the two important anniversaries — the 80th National Day of Vietnam and the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Bulgaria. The Minister emphasized that the presence of numerous leaders and representatives of Bulgarian ministries and institutions clearly demonstrated the depth and importance of relations between Bulgaria and Vietnam, as well as mutual respect and friendship between the two nations over the past 75 years.

He also recalled his personal experience as part of the delegation of the Chairman of the National Assembly, Mr. Rosen Zhelyazkov, during their visit to Vietnam in January 2024, where he witnessed the sincere and deep affection of the Vietnamese people toward Bulgaria. He noted that few nations in the world share such special bonds. The Minister expressed admiration for the Vietnamese people’s resilience in overcoming hardships and challenges to achieve independence and remarkable accomplishments, lifting their economy to the 33rd largest in the world. He affirmed that, as a member of the Bulgarian government, he stands ready to support and contribute positively to advancing relations between Vietnam and Bulgaria to new heights.

A highlight of the reception was the ceremonial cake-cutting marking the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries, performed by H. E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, Bulgarian officials, and members of the Vietnamese community.

The entire evening unfolded in a festive and vibrant atmosphere imbued with cultural identity. Unique musical performances highlighted the cultural intersections between the two nations. Artist Minh Trang performed famous Vietnamese and Bulgarian pieces using three traditional Vietnamese instrument captivating the audience with her artistry. Folk dances performed by young people from both countries further underscored the closeness and unity between the two cultures. Guests also enjoyed traditional Vietnamese dishes showcasing the best of Vietnam’s national cuisine.

It is worth adding that earlier this year, on August 30, to mark the 80th National Day, the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in Bulgaria, in coordination with the Vietnam–Bulgaria Friendship Association, organized sports exchanges with the participation of members of the Vietnamese community in Bulgaria, especially young Bulgarians of Vietnamese descent. At the event, H. E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet presented certificates of merit to four community associations (the Vietnamese Association, the Business Association, the Women’s Association, and the Youth Association), as well as certificates and awards to 11 Vietnamese students with outstanding academic achievements during the 2024–2025 school year.

The material was provided by the Embassy of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam in the Republic of Bulgaria.

Top photo: H. E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to the Republic of Bulgaria, welcomes her guests.

Bottom photos, first row: H. E. Mrs. Nguyen Thi Minh Nguyet greets Mr. Atanas Zafirov, Deputy Prime Minister, and Mr. Borislav Gutsanov, Minister of Labor and Social Policy; Her Excellency delivers her address; guests in the hall. Second row: The ceremonial cake-cutting dedicated to the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries; moments from the cultural program that delighted the attendees.