Addressing the event, Dang Quoc Toan, president of the Vietnam–Canada Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City, stated that since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1973, the bilateral relationship has steadily strengthened across various sectors, particularly after the two countries elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Partnership in 2017.

Canada now has nearly 300 valid FDI projects in Vietnam with a total registered capital of US$4.87 billion. It ranks as Vietnam's second-largest trading partner in the Americas, with bilateral trade turnover reaching approximately US$8.5 billion in 2025.

In Ho Chi Minh City alone, Canada ranks 23rd among foreign investors, with around 130 active projects totaling more than US$133 million in registered capital. The city hopes Canadian businesses will continue expanding investment in priority sectors, including its international financial centre, high technology, innovation, green industries, clean energy, logistics and human resource development.

Toan stressed that people-to-people exchanges have served as a solid foundation for fostering mutual understanding and strengthening the friendship between the two countries across generations.

He expressed hope that the Consulate General of Canada in Ho Chi Minh City, friendship organisations, business associations and non-governmental organisations would continue supporting activities that promote public diplomacy and closer connections between the peoples of Vietnam and Canada.

In her remarks, Canadian Consul General Annie Dubé noted that the gathering was not only an opportunity to celebrate Canada's National Day but also a chance to reflect on the positive achievements of bilateral cooperation and look ahead to new opportunities.

She noted that despite growing global uncertainties, both Canada and Vietnam still have significant potential to expand cooperation, particularly in green technologies, agriculture, infrastructure, education, environmental protection and culture.

According to Dubé, Vietnam is an important partner in Canada's strategy to strengthen its engagement in the Asia-Pacific region.

As the co-host of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Canada warmly welcomes Vietnamese visitors to travel to the country and enjoy the matches, helping to further cement the friendship between the two countries, the diplomat affirmed.

Vietnam, Canada agree on economic cooperation priorities for next period

VOV.VN - The third meeting of the Vietnam-Canada Joint Economic Committee (JEC 3) took place in Ottawa on June 5, co-chaired by Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang and Canada’s Deputy Minister of Global Affairs Arun Thangaraj.