An inauguration ceremony has been held for the opening of an Honorary Consulate of the Republic of Armenia in Ho Chi Minh City, marking a significant milestone in the ever-strengthening and long-standing relationship between the two nations.

The ceremony was held at the new Honorary Consulate in the Sonatus building, 3/F The Sentry, in District 1, and was graced by the presence of distinguished guests, including H.E. Vahram Kazhoyan, Ambassador of the Republic of Armenia to Vietnam, and his spouse, Ms. Valia Kazhoyan; Mr. Tran Phuoc Anh, Director General of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of External Relations; and newly-appointed Honorary Consul of the Republic of Armenia to Ho Chi Minh City, Mr. Gregory Ohannessian, and members of the Consular Corps of Ho Chi Minh City.

During the ceremony, Ambassador Kazhoyan and Mr. Anh shared valuable insights into the current and future trajectory of Vietnam-Armenia relations. They highlighted the long-standing history of cooperation between the two countries, spanning fields such as trade, investment, and tourism over the last 30 years since the two nations formalized diplomatic relations in 1992.

The inauguration of the Honorary Consulate represents a pivotal moment in propelling the bilateral relationship to even greater heights. The Honorary Consulate will play a crucial role in facilitating communications, promoting cultural exchanges, and fostering economic cooperation between Vietnam and Armenia.

With a renewed sense of optimism and a shared vision for the future, both nations now embark on a new chapter in their bilateral relations in Ho Chi Minh City. More cooperative opportunities between the two countries await in 2024, with increased focus on three core objectives: Diplomacy, Business, and Community. Furthermore, the first Vietnam-Armenia Trade & Technology Mission is in its final stages and set to take place in Armenia in 2024, with entrepreneurs, investors, and government agencies from both sides expected to join.

The ceremony also celebrated the appointment of Honorary Consul Ohannessian. An entrepreneur who has spent over a decade doing business in Vietnam, Mr. Ohannessian represents the dynamic, younger wave of impactful leaders driving domestic and international change.

He said that the relationship between Vietnam and Armenia  has deep historical roots and has experienced a number of milestones throughout the years. This opening marks another significant landmark, enhancing positive political, bilateral, and multilateral relations between Vietnam and Armenia. “It is time we further strengthen ties between Vietnam and Armenia, as well as forge new avenues for cooperation,” he said. “We have an exciting agenda ahead as both countries embark on an ambitious path to multiply our trade and economic ties. Armenia has a lot to offer Vietnam, from our famous brandies and wines to our delicious fruit, meat, and dairy products, information and communication technologies, and much more.”

The inauguration ceremony stands as a testament to the commitment of both nations in building a stronger, more prosperous future for generations to come.