In celebration of 80 years of the independence of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, the South African government on Tuesday raised a glass to toast the eight decades of freedom with this country.

In celebrating this milestone in South Africa, Ambassador Hoang Sy Cuong, who is based in Pretoria, hosted ambassadors and other dignitaries. South Africa was represented by Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment, Narend Singh.

Eighty years ago, in 1945, the Vietnamese leader, President Ho Chi Minh, delivered the Declaration of Independence, giving birth to the Democratic Republic of Vietnam, now the Socialist Republic of Vietnam.

“This was the culmination of a century-long struggle for sovereignty and the powerful expression of our people’s unyielding will to be masters of their own destiny. The path we have traveled over these past eight decades has been one of extraordinary trials and remarkable triumphs,” Ambassador Hoang Sy Cuong said.

He reflected on the Vietnamese people who endured immense sacrifices to defend their sovereignty and achieve national reunification. The challenges were monumental, leaving their nation scarred by war, impoverished, and facing economic isolation. “From the ashes of war, we began to rebuild the country,” he said.

In 1986, Vietnam initiated the policy of renewal, which was a pivotal moment of transformation to build a socialist-oriented market economy, to open its doors to the world.

Ambassador Hoang Sy Cuong said that from a low-income, war-torn country, Vietnam has emerged as one of the most dynamic economies in the Asia-Pacific region.

“Today, Vietnam is an active and responsible member of the international community, deeply integrated into the global economy. Our foreign policy is steadfastly guided by the principles of independence, self-reliance, peace, friendship, cooperation, and development.”

The ambassador added that this 80th anniversary is a powerful milestone and a testament to the resilience and humility of the Vietnamese people. 

In reflecting on the journey, he acknowledged South Africa and the friendship that bound Vietnam and South Africa.

“Our histories are interwoven with the common threads of resilience and the fight for justice. Both our peoples understand the price of freedom and the true meaning of self-determination,” he said.

Ambassador Hoang Sy Cuong remarked that this partnership is not merely a diplomatic framework; it is a living, breathing collaboration that continues to expand and flourish across many. He said this partnership has the potential to further deepen.

He further remarked that Vietnam is grateful to South Africa for the invitation to participate in the upcoming G20 Summit. “We see this not only as a great honour but as a reflection of South Africa’s exemplary leadership in global governance and a testament to the strong, cooperative spirit between our countries.”

Deputy Minister Singh, meanwhile, in conveying the country’s congratulations on Vietnam’s 80th birthday, said South Africa is looking forward to strengthening its ties even more with Vietnam.

zelda.venter@inl.co.za

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