From solidarity to strategy: Sweden and Viet Nam innovating together
VGP - The 50th anniversary of the liberation of the South and national reunification (April 30, 1975–2025) is a historic milestone, not only for Viet Nam but for the international community, said Ambassador of Sweden to Viet Nam Johan Ndisi.
Ambassador of Sweden to Viet Nam Johan Ndisi
In his interview with VGP, the Ambassador of Sweden said that he is honored to be in Ho Chi Minh City to witness this important commemoration firsthand on April 30.
Over the past five decades, Viet Nam has made remarkable progress in various fields, including economic development, social progress, and international cooperation.
"This anniversary also allows us to reflect on the broader implications of peace and reconciliation, emphasizing the importance of international solidarity and cooperation in addressing global challenges", he noted.
In 1969, amidst the war in Viet Nam and profound global challenges, Sweden became the first Western nation to establish diplomatic relations with Viet Nam.
"This decision reflected our enduring belief in peace, mutual respect, and international solidarity. Sweden's early support stands as a testament to the strong friendship between our nations-a bond that remains vibrant today. Building on this shared history, we continue to strengthen our partnership across areas such as innovation, sustainable development, and digital transformation", underlined the diplomat.
The implementation of the EU-Viet Nam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) further underscores Viet Nam's commitment to global integration, creating new opportunities for Sweden and EU member states to share expertise in fields like innovation, digitalization, and green technology, shared Ndisi.
"Viet Nam Victory" Documentary 1975 - Vietnamese National Anthem cut
The occasion, the Embassy of Sweden in Viet Nam, in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, held a ceremony to present the documentary "Victory Viet Nam".
According to the Ambassador, "Victory Viet Nam" is not only a glance at history; it symbolizes the enduring friendship between our two nations and how cultural and historical memories can create lasting relationships between nations.
Directed by Swedish filmmaker Bo Öhlén, the documentary captures the atmosphere in the streets of Stockholm, Sweden, on April 30, 1975, as news of Viet Nam's reunification reached the world.
"Through his lens, we see the solidarity and strong emotional connection that ordinary Swedish citizens felt toward the Vietnamese people-a reflection of the friendship and support Sweden extended to Viet Nam during a pivotal time", said the diplomat.
By presenting "Victory Viet Nam" to the Viet Nam Film Institute and ensuring that this film is now part of the national archive, the Ambassador expressed his hope that ensuring future generations can be inspired by it.
"It has been overwhelming-and truly heartening-to see how warmly the documentary has been received in Viet Nam, with public screenings in Ha Noi and Ho Chi Minh City reaching and resonating with so many people. It also reaffirms the deep historical ties and solidarity between Sweden and Viet Nam, which continue to shape our strong, forward-looking partnership today", told Ndisi.
People at Nguyen Hue Walking Street, Ho Chi Minh City, eager watching "Victory Viet Nam" on April 28, 2024 - Photo: Viet Nam Film Institute
Viet Nam-Sweden relationship grounded in mutual trust and respect
The Ambassador said, Viet Nam-Sweden relationship has always been grounded in mutual trust and respect. Today, it's evolving into a more strategic partnership, with a focus on innovation, sustainability, and digital transformation.
The growth of two-way trade, particularly in areas such as clean technology and advanced machinery, highlights how complementary the two economies are.
Leading Swedish companies, such as IKEA, Astra Zeneca, Electrolux, Ericsson, Atlas Copco, H&M, and Tetra Pak, are increasingly seeing Viet Nam not just as a manufacturing hub, but as an important partner in innovation, especially in building smart factories and sustainable supply chains.
Sweden aims to collaborate more in high-tech manufacturing, green industrial solutions, and digital transformation. For example, Swedish technology leaders like Ericsson, Hitachi Energy, and ABB already consider Viet Nam a key partner in developing next-generation solutions, from 5G networks to energy infrastructure and digital industries.
Swedish company SYRE's interest in investing in Viet Nam's green and circular textile industries demonstrates the real potential for collaboration to drive sustainable growth.
"In healthcare, Sweden's expertise in digital health complements Viet Nam's advances in telemedicine. Together, we can create scalable models for healthcare delivery that could benefit the region. Viet Nam's investments in innovation, technology, and research align perfectly with Sweden's strengths, opening the door for breakthrough research and innovations.
As Viet Nam continues to grow as a leader within ASEAN, it has an opportunity to influence the regional agenda, particularly in sustainable development and digital trade. Sweden stands ready to share its expertise in these fields to help Viet Nam shape the future.
"Ultimately, this partnership is more than just diplomatic-it's a strategic partnership. By combining Sweden's leadership in innovation and sustainability with Viet Nam's entrepreneurial spirit and vision, we have the opportunity to tackle global challenges and create lasting prosperity for both nations", emphasized the Ambassador./.
