A golden jubilee of friendship: Vietnam and the Maldives move forward to a new path
As Vietnam and the Maldives approach the 50th anniversary of our diplomatic relations (June 18, 1975 - June 18, 2025), we pause to celebrate a half-century of friendship that has woven our nations together across continents and oceans.
Latest
This milestone is not merely a marker of time but a vibrant call to deepen our partnership for a brighter future.
 |
| Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam presents Letter of credentials to Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu on September 9, 2024. |
Our journey began in 1975, when diplomatic ties were forged, laying the foundation for a relationship rooted in mutual respect and shared aspirations. Today, as we open a new chapter in our bond, we honor the vision of our leaders and the enduring connections between our peoples. From the bustling markets of Ha Noi to the coral-fringed shores of Malé, our nations have built bridges of trust and cooperation.
Mutual understanding and respect have been a cornerstone of this friendship, demonstrated through bilateral contacts and unwavering support at multilateral fora, especially the United Nations.
Our economic collaboration is on an encouraging upward trajectory. Bilateral trade, valued at around $15 million annually, given the modest market scale of the Maldives, is a positive sign. In addition, a notable $23 million Maldivian investment in Vietnam signals confidence in our shared potential. Since assuming my post as Ambassador to the Maldives, I have worked to strengthen these ties. On September 10th, 2024, during my credentials presentation to His Excellency President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu, the Embassy of Vietnam and the Maldivian Ministry of Economic Development and Trade co-hosted a workshop “Vietnam - Maldives Business Network” in Malé. This event, uniting business leaders from both nations, sparked new opportunities in tourism, fisheries, construction, education and renewable energy sectors where our strengths converge. Relavant authorities of the two countries have been working hard for the possibility of direct flights in the near furure.
 |
| Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam and Maldivian State Minister of Economic Development and Trade Hussain Zamir cochair the Viet Nam- Maldives Business Networking in Male on September 10, 2024. |
Beyond economics, Vietnam and the Maldives share a commitment to people-centered progress. Vietnam’s journey from post-war recovery to dynamic growth mirrors the Maldives’ strides in sustainable development and social equity. Both nations have placed their citizens at the heart of progress, ensuring prosperity is shared widely. This shared ethos inspires our collaboration on global stages, from addressing pressing issues such as climate change to advancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean and the East Sea.
As coastal nations, we are bound by the sea—its beauty and its challenges. The Maldives’ coral atolls and Vietnam’s vibrant coastline face rising tides and environmental threats. Together, we can champion sustainable marine practices, ensure freedom of navigation, and combat shared challenges like piracy and illegal fishing. A joint initiative to protect marine biodiversity, for instance, could harness Vietnam’s aquaculture expertise and the Maldives’ conservation leadership, setting a global example.
Our cultural tapestries - Vietnam’s ancient relics and the Maldives’ vibrant island traditions further unite us. Shared values of sovereignty, resilience, and international cooperation underpin our partnership. Looking ahead, we envision bold new ventures, inluding ecotourism exchanges that showcase two countries’ beautiful beaches, exciting water sports and abundant seafood, renewable energy projects that harness solar and wind, and fisheries collaborations that help to promote sustainable livelihoods.
 |
| Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam in a meeting with Maldivian Foreign Minister Abdulla Khaleel, together with ASEAN Ambassadors/High Commissioners in Colombo on February 20, 2025. |
This golden jubilee is a testament to the dedication of our leaders, diplomats, and citizens. It is a moment to reflect on our achievements and to dream bigger. As Vietnam and the Maldives step into the next chapter, we do so with optimism, united by a vision of inclusive growth and mutual respect. Together, we can forge a future that honors our past and inspires generations to come.
In celebrating 50 years of friendship, we reaffirm our commitment to a partnership that transcends distance and binds our nations as a beacon of hope in an interconnected world. I would like to take this opportunity extend the most heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency President Mohamed Muizzu and the people of the Maldives for their steadfast dedication to nurturing this enduring partnership.
 |
| Maldives is a world-renowned tourism destination, a pioneer in sustainable fisheries, and a global champion for climate change. (Photo: Getty) |
Multimedia
Infographics Photos Videos E magazine
