South Africa wishes to be Viet Nam’s close and honest partner

Ambassador of South Africa to Viet Nam Mpetjane Kgaogelo Lekgoro.

The 12^th of February marks the beginning of the Year of the Buffalo. The second animal of the zodiac, the buffalo denotes strength, hard work, positivity and honesty.

I believe these are characteristics that the leaders and people of Viet Nam have already demonstrated in abundance in the past year as evidenced by their remarkable successes, not only on the domestic front but also on the global stage.

Viet Nam has won the admiration of the world for the splendid manner in which it has controlled the Covid-19 pandemic and endured cruel natural disasters while still maintaining extraordinary economic momentum and growth.

Under these challenging circumstances the country has completed the first year of its term as non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council and made a sterling contribution to the international effort to promote peace and security.

In addition to its UNSC seat, Viet Nam also held the 2020 rotating chair of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, and the region has been unanimous in its praise for the manner in which the country has fulfilled its responsibilities in the face of the difficulties imposed by the Covid-19 pandemic. South Africa was deeply honoured to formally accede to the ASEAN Treaty of Amity and Cooperation under Viet Nam’s chairmanship at a ceremony during the ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting on 10 November 2020.

It has therefore been a year of remarkable successes for Viet Nam’s diplomacy as a reflection of national character and discipline, and all indications are that it will grow from strength to strength in the New Year.

At the time of the publication of this message, and in what is a most auspicious sign, the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Viet Nam is taking place with every promise of being highly successful. A solid foundation is being laid and clear direction given for Viet Nam to continue its intrepid march to becoming a developed and high-income country by the time the Centenary of the nation’s founding arrives.

South Africa wishes to be Viet Nam’s close and honest partner on this exciting journey and we look forward to also contributing our strength, hard work and positivity during the coming year to build ever stronger and deeper ties between our two countries.

On the happy occasion of the Lunar New Year we wish the leaders and people of Viet Nam, individually and collectively, abundant good health, lasting prosperity, ever greater triumphs and enduring happiness.

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