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“Vietnam: A Pivotal Player in the Global Supply Chain”

"Vietnam's political stability has long been admired by international observers, and now Cuban experts are praising the country's ability to maintain this stability while achieving new economic heights. With a strong and consistent government at the helm, Vietnam has navigated global challenges and emerged as a rising star in the Southeast Asian region. The country's resilience and determination to foster economic growth while upholding its political values are a testament to its leadership and people."

Administrator

10 May, 2024

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Seven decades have transpired since the Dien Bien Phu Victory, and nearly five since the South’s liberation. Vietnam, once ravaged by war, has risen like a phoenix to become an integral part of the global supply chain. This transformation is a testament to the country’s resilience and determination.

Alicia Corredera, Vice President of the Cuban Institute for Friendship with Peoples (ICAP), shares her thoughts with VNA reporters in La Habana. Photo: Mai Phuong/TTXVN

Alicia Corredera, Vice President of the Cuban Institute for Friendship with Peoples (ICAP), offered her perspective on Vietnam’s remarkable journey. Speaking to Vietnam News Agency reporters in La Habana, she celebrated the country’s progress since the Dien Bien Phu Victory.

Corredera, who studied in Vietnam during the 1970s, has witnessed the country’s development first-hand. She fondly recalls the day in 1975 when she and her fellow Cubans joined the Vietnamese people in celebrating their victory, marching towards Hoan Kiem Lake with music and joy.

“We sang, we laughed, and we cried tears of happiness. Vietnam’s victory felt like our own,” she reminisced.

Cuba has played a significant role in spreading awareness of Vietnam’s war history internationally. Through the Cuban Committee for Solidarity with South Vietnam, they have participated in countless events condemning atrocities and crimes against the Vietnamese people. Cuban intellectuals, experts, filmmakers, and journalists have also actively spoken out against the devastation caused by the wars.

Corredera noted with pleasure that Vietnam’s unity and peace have paved the way for numerous international collaborations. While foreign direct investment initially focused on textiles, garments, and footwear, Vietnam has rapidly climbed the value chain and established itself as a crucial electronic product assembly hub.

Additionally, Vietnam’s foreign policy has expanded its reach, gaining recognition in the region and beyond. The country, once ravaged by war, now boasts impressive achievements across various sectors.

Today, Vietnam is not only self-sufficient in rice production but has also become a leading exporter. Coffee exports and other economic sectors thrive, propelling the country’s economy forward.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel meet to strengthen ties. Photo: Duong Giang/TTXVN

Corredera expressed her belief in Vietnam’s aspiration to become a developed country by 2045, stating, “Vietnamese people rejoice in their country’s prosperity.” She attributed this success to the strong bond between Cuba and Vietnam, which was forged during challenging times.

When Vietnam was rebuilding after the war, Cuba offered assistance. Likewise, when Cuba faced an economic crisis, Vietnam provided much-needed support. This special friendship, built on trust, understanding, and mutual respect, continues to flourish.

As Vietnam commemorates the 70th anniversary of the Dien Bien Phu victory and the 49th anniversary of the liberation and unification of the country, Corredera extends her congratulations to the Vietnamese people through the Vietnam News Agency.

She also encourages the younger generation to remember Vietnam’s heroic past and honor the sacrifices made for the country’s freedom.

Charlotte Pho