The creation of the association is a promise of deeper co-operation and stronger ties between the people of the two nations.

Delegates attending the event pose for a photo to mark the significance of this milestone in promoting Vietnam-Singapore relations. Photo: Thanh Nhan.

On January 21, the inaugural congress of the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association for the 2025-2030 term was held in Hanoi with the participation of more than 100 delegates, including Vietnamese alumni, those who used to work in Singapore, and individuals with strong ties to the island state.

Speaking at the event, Singapore Ambassador to Vietnam Jaya Ratnam highlighted the 50-year history of Vietnam-Singapore relations, underscoring the close cooperation in many fields. He pointed to 2025 - a year that will mark Vietnam's 80th National Day and Singapore's 60th anniversary of independence - as an important opportunity to celebrate the enduring friendship between the two countries.

The congress adopted the association's charter and outlined its strategic objectives. A 25-member executive committee was elected, with Tran Anh Tuan, secretary of the Son Tay Party Committee, as its first chairman.

An overview of the conference, with significant attendance and active participation by delegates. Photo: Thanh Nhan.

Highlighting Hanoi's role as Vietnam's political, economic and cultural hub, Nguyen Ngoc Ky, Chairman of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations, said: "The establishment of the Vietnam-Singapore Friendship Association reflects Hanoi's commitment to strengthening people-to-people diplomacy and promoting new opportunities for cooperation."

Singapore has long been a key partner for Vietnam as the largest ASEAN investor in the country, with more than 3,300 projects and total investment of more than US$73 billion by 2024. The association is poised to play a critical role in expanding economic cooperation, promoting educational exchanges, supporting digital transformation, and developing smart urban solutions.

The congress is seen as a strategic initiative that will pave the way for cross-sectoral cooperation and strengthen bilateral relations between Vietnam and Singapore.