Hanoi: The Vietnamese government hosted a dinner to welcome Prime Minister Paethongtarn and her delegation on the occasion of their official visit to the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, emphasizing close relations and inviting Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to watch the SEA Games in Thailand.
According to Thai News Agency, the dinner took place at 7:00 p.m. at the Government Palace of Vietnam in Hanoi. Prime Minister Paethongtarn Shinawatra attended this event as part of her official visit to Vietnam. Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, the Prime Minister of Vietnam, hosted the dinner and led Prime Minister Paethongtarn through an exhibition showcasing Vietnamese traditional handicrafts and souvenirs from both countries, which were on display at the entrance of the event.
During the event, Prime Minister Paethongtarn delivered a speech, expressing gratitude for the warm reception and acknowledging the Vietnamese Prime Minister as the first leader to congratulate her. She emphasized that this visit comes at a critical time when both countries are confronting rapidly changing global political and economic challenges.
Prime Minister Paethongtarn highlighted the upcoming JCR meeting, which will mark the 20th anniversary of a special mechanism unique to the bilateral relationship between Thailand and Vietnam. She expressed her anticipation for the elevation of the relationship to a 'comprehensive strategic partnership' during her visit, which is expected to enhance cooperation in various areas.
On the economic front, Prime Minister Paethongtarn pointed out the significant growth in trade between Thailand and Vietnam, which has expanded more than 20-fold over the past 30 years. She noted Thailand's role as a major investor in Vietnam, viewing it as a partnership with great potential to stimulate future economic growth. Furthermore, she acknowledged the strong cultural and social ties between the two nations, including shared interests in food, music, drama, and the Thai-Vietnamese communities in Thailand.
Prime Minister Paethongtarn also remarked on the unique historical connection between the two countries, mentioning that Thailand is home to three monuments of President Ho Chi Minh. She noted the popularity of Thai dramas in Vietnam and the significant tourism exchange, with over 1 million Vietnamese visiting Thailand and over 500,000 Thais traveling to Vietnam last year.
In conclusion, Prime Minister Paethongtarn extended an invitation to Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and the Vietnamese Cabinet to visit Thailand for the men's football gold medal match at the 33rd SEA Games, should Thailand and Vietnam compete in the final round. She concluded the event with a toast to the enduring friendship and partnership between the peoples of the two countries.