On the occasion of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and North Korea, which falls on January 31, 2025, both nations have declared the year as the "Year of Friendship." This announcement was made through exchanges of congratulatory messages between top leaders from both countries, showcasing their longstanding ties and shared goals.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un expressed his warm greetings to Vietnamese President Luong Cuong. According to reports from the state-operated Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim indicated optimism about the bilateral relationship, noting, "This conforms to the common aspiration and desire of the peoples of the two countries to develop the friendly and cooperative relations which were forged and consolidated in the joint struggle for socialism onto a new, higher stage." The message reflects the deep-rooted connections established over the years, initiated by the founding leaders of both nations.
Vietnamese President Luong Cuong reciprocated with his own message, emphasizing the importance of the traditional relations nurtured across generations. He pointed out the efforts of notable historical figures such as President Ho Chi Minh and Kim Il-sung, who laid the groundwork for the friendship between the two nations. Cuong remarked on the planned significant activities and exchanges throughout the year, aimed at strengthening the cooperative framework and enhancing bilateral ties.
The relationship between North Korea and Vietnam has had its ebbs and flows, shaped by significant global and regional events. Since formally establishing diplomatic relations in 1950, the two countries enjoyed close ties rooted in their shared communist ideologies. Notably, the early engagements included reciprocal visits between Ho Chi Minh and Kim Il-sung, with Ho Chi Minh visiting North Korea in July 1957, followed by Kim Il-sung's visits to Vietnam the following year and again in 1964.
After decades of close alliance, the dynamic began to shift as Vietnam established diplomatic relations with South Korea in 1992, which cooled ties with the North. Nevertheless, this relationship underwent revitalization during the 2000s, culminating with Kim Jong-un's visit to Hanoi for a summit with then U.S. President Donald Trump in February 2019 — marking a new chapter for diplomatic relations.
Recent high-level exchanges reaffirmed the commitment of both governments to continue this momentum. The messages exchanged on the 75th anniversary underline the mutual respect and shared history between the two nations. Vietnam's leadership articulated their readiness and willingness to seek stronger collaboration across various sectors with North Korea, which they believe will contribute to regional peace and stability.
The marks of history are deeply embedded within the Vietnam-DPRK relationship. Leaders from both countries have reiterated their intent to uphold and advance the socialist principles and values they jointly cultivated over the years. Aiming to engage constructively, both parties are optimistic about transcending past hesitations and fortifying their friendship during this declared Year of Friendship.
To commemorate the 75th anniversary, both sides emphasized the necessity of substantial cooperation and significant exchanges. Vietnamese General Secretary To Lam, along with other high-ranking officials including Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man, extended congratulatory messages to North Korean officials, highlighting the deep connections and cooperation established over time.
Kim Jong-un voiced hope for the two nations to utilize the opportunity presented by the Year of Friendship to solidify their ties even more. He expressed confidence about the ability of both countries to implement various activities celebrating their friendship. This sentiment echoes the aspirations of both governments to see their historical partnership evolve with the changing tides of global politics.
Lastly, the involvement of key political figures from both sides in exchanging new year greetings and discussing collaborative potentials highlights the commitment both nations share. The focus remains on continuing to build upon decades of established friendship, reinforcing the bilateral cooperation framework for the benefit of both countries.
Overall, this celebratory year serves as a pivotal moment for Vietnam and North Korea to reflect upon their historical accomplishments and envision future collaborations. The optimistic exchanges and pledges showcase the enduring ties and mutual aspirations to build on their friendship, ensuring it withstands the test of time as each nation embarks on its path toward progress.