On May 8, the HCM City Union of Friendship Organizations and the HCM City chapter of the Vietnam-Russia Friendship Association held a meeting to celebrate the 69th anniversary of the fall of Nazi Germany.

 

 

Russian children studying in HCM City perform at the meeting on May 8, 2014 to celebrate the 69th anniversary of the fall of Nazi Germany

 

Speaking at the event, Chairman of the HCM City chapter of the Vietnam-Russia Friendship Association Nguyen Huu Thanh highlighted the historical significance of the former Soviet Union's victory in the Great Patriotic War, saying the victory not only maintained the independence of the country but also brought an end to a serious threat to world civilisation.

Vietnam treasures the value of the victory’s peace and independence, and is thankful to Russians for their role in defeating fascism during the Second World War, Thanh said.

To promote the spirit of the triumph, Vietnam and Russia should further solidarity in an era of integration, cooperation and development for peace, stability and prosperity of both countries, as well as in the region and the world, he added.

Russian Consul General in HCM City Anatoli Vasilievich Borovik said Russia sees Vietnam as a faithful friend. Many Vietnamese volunteer soldiers fought with the former Soviet Union soldiers in the fierce struggle to protect Moscow in 1941, he said.

Furthering comprehensive ties with Vietnam, especially in politics, economics, defence, humanity and other sectors is a priority in Russia’s current external policy in the Asia-Pacific, he added.

 

(Translated by MT – May 9, 2014)