Speaking at the ceremony, Hua Ngoc Thuan, Vice Chairman of HCM City People’s Committee, highlighted that Switzerland is one among the first  Western European countries to established diplomatic ties with Vietnam. He said Vietnam has been appreciating the precious support from Switzerland during Vietnam’s national liberation struggle as well as the national construction, development and integration process of Vieät Nam.

He said upgrading the honourary consulate general of Switzerland in to the consulate geneal last Septmber and its official opening provided an important foundation for consolidating the cooperation between the two countries in general and between Switzerland and HCM City in particular.

The vice chairman confirmed that the city’s authorities would facilitate visits by Swiss high0ranking delegations, businesses and individuals.

He said the city would coordinate with the Embassy of Switzerland in Vietnam and Swiss Consulate General in HCM City to strengthen relations in all aspects.

The two countries established diplomatic relation in 1971, since then cooperation in the areas of economy, trade, vocational training, tourism and culture have been growing increasingly. Last year around 30,000 Swiss citizens visited Vietnam and 1,000 Vietnamese tourists came to Switzerland.

Around 80 Swiss companies are operating in Vietnam with 60 in HCM City and nearby provinces. They provide 15,000 jobs to the local people.

HCM CityWeb