Article by the Consul General of Belarus in HCMC Ruslan Varankou in the Foreign Affairs Review magazine

Friendly Relations between
Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City
Foreign Affairs Review, HCMC (Viet Nam)
January 2025

- Mr. Varankou Ruslan Mikalaevich, Consul General of the Republic of Belarus in Ho Chi Minh City -

Understanding the essence of relations between Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City necessitates revisiting several key contexts.

A historical connection

The robust relationship between Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City has deep historical roots that transcend the official establishment of Belarusian -Vietnamese diplomatic ties on January 24,1992.

During the time, Soviet Belarus, as part of the USSR, played a pivotal role in nurturing Soviet — Vietnamese relations, providing military support, material assistance, and educational opportunities that laid the foundation for a lasting bond.

In Belarus alone, 1300 Vietnamese specialists were trained, many of whom later assumed significant roles in their homeLand. The mechanical prowess of Belarusian tractors transformed Vietnam’s agriculture, and the iconic “Minsk” motorcycles became a staple in the country’s northern and mountainous terrains.

Political relations between the Byelorussian Soviet Socialist Republic and the newly decolonised Viet Nam flourished. President Ho Chi Minh’s visits to Minsk in August 1957 and November 1961 remain emblematic of the shared struggle against colonial forces and symbolize a friendship built on mutual respect and support.

Political evolution and modern cooperation

Undoubtedly, the historical foundation laid the groundwork for Viet Nam recognising the independence of the Republic of Belarus on December 27, 1991, just 19 days after the act of denunciation of the USSR and 6 days after the signing of the Treaty on the creation of the Commonwealth of Independent States.

In this context, establishing a full-fledged diplomatic mission in Hanoi seemed like a logical step. However, the country’s leadership, which was fully engrossed in state-building, opted instead to open a trade mission in Ho Chi Minh City, becoming the birthplace of the first diplomatic mission of sovereign Belarus in Vietnam.

Following the President Aleksandr Lukashenko’s visit to Viet Nam in April 1997, the trade mission in Ho Chi Minh City underwent a transformation and became an Embassy in Hanoi in December 1997.

Quarter of a century later, in March 2022, Belarus has restored its permanent diplomatic presence in Ho Chi Minh City through the establishment of the Consulate General.

For nearly three decades, the two nations have engaged in numerous bilateral exchanges, laying the foundation for cooperation, particularly between their major cities, Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City.

Numerous high-level visits and meetings between officials from both countries, including three state visits each way, have strengthened diplomatic and economic ties. These exchanges have also focused on expanding cooperation at the local level, reflecting a shared commitment to fostering friendship and mutual growth.

Legal and cultural framework.
Sister cities relations

The framework for cooperation between Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City was established through the signing of several key documents. The first legal instrument, Agreement on International Tourist Exchanges, was signed in September 2007. However, the capstone document, Agreement on Friendship and Cooperation, was signed a year Later, on November 4, 2008.

In 2011, the institutional framework was further strengthened through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation between the two cities in the fields of economy, trade, and culture, society. These documents outline collaboration in diverse areas, including government, trade, culture, education, and tourism.

To implement both the 2008 and 2011 agreements, the two cities have consistently signed cooperation programmes for relevant periods, essentially serving as roadmaps for mutual progress. The most recent cooperation programme, signed in September 2024, sets the stage for continued partnership through 2026.

Recent intercity activities

In recent years, the two cities have engaged in various joint activities to further strengthen their cooperation. These activities include business and cultural exchanges, official visits. The cities have also collaborated on economic initiatives, such as business fora, trade fairs, and exhibitions.

The sister cities maintain regular high-level contacts. Delegations led by the First Deputy Chairman or Deputy Chairman of the Minsk City Executive Committee visited Ho Chi Minh City in 2017, 2022, 2023, and 2024. These delegations participated in the two Ho Chi Minh City Sister Cities Fora “Friendship Dialogue” and the Ho Chi Minh Fifth Economic Forum. In 2019, Mr. Phan Van Mai, then a parliamentary delegation member and now the Chairman of the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, visited Minsk.

In the humanitarian dimension of cooperation, in October 2023, the Minsk City Organisation of the Belarusian Women’s Union and the Ho Chi Minh City Women’s Union signed a cooperation agreement. In May 2024, a delegation from the Ho Chi Minh City Women’s Union visited Minsk, culminating in the signing of a joint action plan for 2024 — 2029.

On September 23, 2024 Ho Chi Minh City welcomed the inaugural Minsk Days in Vietnam. The event brought together esteemed officials, including the Belarusian Ambassador in Vietnam, Uladzimir Baravikou, and the First Deputy Chairwoman of Minsk City Executive Committee, Nadzeya Lazarevich. Additionally, the event featured the Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, Vo Van Hoan, and other key figures.

One of the highlights of the Minsk Days was the Belarus — Viet Nam business forum, which fostered opportunities for collaboration and trade between the two nations. Moreover, the event marked the first summit of Vietnamese alumni from Belarusian universities, held in the southern region of Vietnam.

The purpose of this summit was not only to strengthen ties with individuals who hold a deep connection to Belarus and its culture, but also to allow Vietnamese alumni to share their experiences and perspectives with their peers.

Economic and trade dynamics

Trade between Belarus and Viet Nam has witnessed substantial growth, setting a record in 2023. Belarusian machinery, chemicals, and vehicles are integral to Vietnam’s infrastructure, while Vietnam’s textiles, agriculture, and electronics are valued in Belarus. The 2015 Free Trade Agreement between Viet Nam and the Eurasian Economic Union has provided a framework for enhanced economic collaboration.

Future prospects and initiatives

Looking ahead, the economic partnership between Ho Chi Minh City and Minsk holds significant promise. Opportunities abound in technology, heavy machinery, infrastructure, agriculture, and manufacturing. The Belt and Road Initiative positions Belarus as a key transit hub for Vietnamese goods in the European region, while ASEAN membership opens doors to its vast market for Belarus — Viet Nam joint ventures set up in the industrial zones in the south of Vietnam.

Cultural exchanges, such as student programmes and festivals, are poised to further cement the bond between the cities. Minsk anticipates hosting the Days of Ho Chi Minh City, reflecting a shared desire to celebrate and deepen connections.

Milestones and celebrations

The year 2025 is set to be a landmark year for both nations, with significant anniversaries and events that offer opportunities to enhance intercity exchanges. Viet Nam will mark the 95th anniversary of the establishment of the Communist Party, the 135th anniversary of the birth of President Ho Chi Minh, the 80th anniversary of Independence, and the 50th anniversary of the Liberation of the South and national reunification. Belarus will commemorate the 80th anniversary of its Victory in the Great Patriotic War and will hold pivotal presidential elections on January 26.

The relationship between Minsk and Ho Chi Minh City is both stable and poised for growth. By expanding economic ties and embracing cultural and educational initiatives, the cities can continue to thrive in mutual friendship and cooperation.

As the year draws to a close, we extend warm wishes for prosperity, happiness, and peace to the citizens of Ho Chi Minh City.

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