Can Tho Celebrates 50 Years of Vietnam-Thailand Diplomatic Ties

Can Tho City, the economic hub of the Mekong Delta in southern Vietnam, is aiming to further deepen economic cooperation with Thailand as the two nations celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations. In the first six months of 2026, Can Tho's exports to Thailand reached $13.9 million, with key products including rice, seafood, agricultural products, and processed foods. Imports from Thailand during the same period totaled approximately $3.8 million, primarily consisting of textiles, chemicals, and production materials. This significant milestone serves to reaffirm the long-standing friendship and the importance of economic ties between the two countries. For Vietnam, pursuing economic growth under its one-party system, strengthening regional cooperation within ASEAN is strategically vital for diversifying supply chains and relatively reducing economic reliance on China. As key ASEAN members, economic exchanges between Vietnam and Thailand contribute to the stability and prosperity of the entire region. The role of provincial cities like Can Tho as international trade hubs is particularly noteworthy from the perspective of decentralizing Vietnam's economy. In recent years, Vietnam has positioned parliamentary cooperation as a crucial pillar of its comprehensive strategic partnership with Thailand. An official visit by the President of Thailand's National Assembly to Vietnam is also anticipated, signaling expectations for strengthened ties in both political and economic spheres.