TEHRAN- The Iranian ambassador says that Tehran and Hanoi both possess the potential to boost cooperation.

Ali Akbar Nazari, ambassador of Iran to Vietnam, made the remarks in an article for Vietnam News on February 11, 2024. Following are excerpts from the article: 

A very bright outlook and promising relations between Iran and Vietnam exist in the light of their leaders' political will, common interests, and huge potential.

The history of relations between Iran and Vietnam can be traced back to the 15th century when the first Iranian merchants traveled to Vietnam. These early interactions laid the foundation for future connections and paved the way for deeper engagement between the two countries. 

2023 marked a milestone in the course of bilateral relations between Iran and Vietnam as both countries commemorated the 50th Anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations.

The best proof of the good relations between Tehran and Hanoi is the frequency of high-profile political visits in the past several years. Particularly in the past year, we have witnessed strong development of our bilateral ties through high-ranking visits of Vuong Dinh Hue, Chairman of the National Assembly in August 2023, and of H.E. General To Lam, Minister of Public Security, in May 2023. 

A recordable number of agreements and MoUs between the two countries signed during these visits together with previous deals have provided a proper framework for boosting cooperation in all fields, including trade and economic cooperation, which was emphasized by leaders of the two countries as a major pillar of bilateral relations in the coming time.

Despite strong headwinds in the global economy and other challenges, two-way trade between the two countries in 2023 increased by 66 percent compared to 2022. 

This cooperation is expected to be strengthened on the basis of the huge potential of the two nation’s economies in 2024.

In addition, Iran, heir to an ancient civilization, possesses a rich cultural identity and unique customs. With a variety of historical and natural attractions, a long list of recognized World Heritages, diversity of traditions and hospitality, Iran is heaven for tourists. It is also one of the safest and most secure countries in the region and the world. 

It is also believed that thanks to the latest decision of the Government of Iran to waive tourist visas for holders of Vietnamese ordinary passports starting from February 4, 2024, people-to-people exchange and tourism cooperation between the two countries will develop robustly in the coming year.