Thai Parliament Speaker Visits Vietnam, Strengthening 50 Years of Diplomatic Ties

Thai Parliament Speaker and House of Representatives Speaker Sophon Saram arrived at Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi for an official visit, extending an invitation from the Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam. He received a warm welcome, including a special reception at the VIP lounge, from H.E. Mr. Nguyen Doan Anh, Vice Chairman of the National Assembly of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, and Hon. Mr. Vu Hai Ha, Standing Vice Chairman of the National Defense and Security Committee of the National Assembly, who served as honorary escorts. Also present were Ms. Urawadee Sriphiromya, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to Hanoi, and representatives from the National Assembly. Later, Mr. Sophon and the Thai parliamentary delegation proceeded to the Royal Thai Embassy in Hanoi to receive a briefing on the development of Thai-Vietnamese relations. Ambassador Urawadee welcomed the delegation and expressed her delight that the Speaker's visit was the first official visit by a Thai Parliament Speaker in 15 years. This occasion is particularly significant as it coincides with the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Vietnam on August 6, 2026. During the briefing, the Ambassador presented an overview of the political, security, economic, trade, investment, educational, and people-to-people cooperation aspects of Thai-Vietnamese relations. She highlighted that the two countries currently enjoy the closest relationship since the establishment of diplomatic ties 50 years ago, stemming from political trust, proximity as neighboring countries, historical and cultural bonds, and strong people-to-people connections. Economically, Thailand remains Vietnam's top trading partner within ASEAN, while Vietnam is Thailand's second-largest trading partner in ASEAN. This reflects the continuously growing economic linkage, serving as a crucial foundation for elevating the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. In the afternoon, the Speaker is scheduled to lay wreaths at the Bac Son War Heroes and Fallen Soldiers Memorial and at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum to pay respects to the heroes and important figures who played a role in nation-building. At 3:10 PM, Mr. Sophon will pay a courtesy call and hold bilateral discussions with Mr. Tran Thanh Man, Chairman of the National Assembly of Vietnam. He will also visit the National Assembly building and the National Assembly Museum. At 6:00 PM, he will attend a dinner with Mr. Tran Thanh Man and representatives of the National Assembly. Information Source: INN News