Rabat hosts celebration marking 65 years of Morocco-Vietnam diplomatic ties

On Friday, Rabat hosted a significant event marking the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Morocco and Vietnam. The celebration, meticulously organized by the Vietnamese Embassy in the Kingdom, saw a collaborative effort with the High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army.

A highlight of the day was the inauguration of a compelling thematic exhibition, “President Ho Chi Minh – Symbol of Peace and International Friendship.” This exhibition, open until June 26, offers a profound insight into the life and journey of Vietnam’s national liberation hero, whose endeavors were consistently shaped by the principles of peace, independence, and global cooperation.

Further enhancing the commemorative event, which was also a joint initiative with the Morocco-Vietnam Friendship Association and the President Ho Chi Minh Memorial Site (under Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism), was a dedicated seminar. This forum explored avenues for strengthening bilateral cooperation across diverse sectors, including diplomatic, economic, academic, cultural, and human exchanges.

During his opening address at the gathering, Mustapha El Ktiri, the High Commissioner for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army, underscored the historical and strategic depth of the ties between Morocco and Vietnam. He emphasized that this celebration truly “embodies the convergence of two peoples whose historical paths, forged through challenges and driven by a shared ideal of liberty, unite in a commonality of values and destiny.”

Reflecting on poignant symbols of their shared heritage, Mr. El Ktiri, who also presides over the Morocco-Vietnam Friendship Association, recalled the 2022 inauguration in Kénitra of the “Gate of Vietnam.” This landmark, he noted, serves as a mirror image to Vietnam’s “Gate of Morocco” in Bà Vi, symbolizing twin monuments that bridge continents and generations.

Ambassador Le Kim Quy, the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Representative of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam to Morocco, expressed her satisfaction with the tangible and positive progression of bilateral relations. She highlighted the increased frequency of high-level meetings and visits undertaken by both nations in recent years, which she believes unequivocally demonstrate mutual trust and a collective resolve to strengthen this vital strategic partnership.

The economic dimension has also witnessed remarkable growth, with the Vietnamese diplomat noting that trade volumes are projected to reach $390 million in 2025. This positive momentum, she added, extends beyond commerce to encompass education, cultural and human exchanges, and even decentralized cooperation between local authorities in both countries.

Concluding the day’s events was the inauguration of the Ho Chi Minh Library. This new repository houses a collection of works in French, English, and Arabic, generously donated by the Vietnamese leader’s Memorial Site to the High Commission for Former Resistance Fighters and Members of the Liberation Army.