The Vietnamese Embassy in Colombo hosted the “Tet 2025” event for the Vietnamese community in Sri Lanka on January 5 as the Lunar New Year approached.
Over 100 Vietnamese citizens, along with their Sri Lankan families, embassy staff, and representatives from the Sri Lanka-Vietnam Solidarity Association and the Communist Party of Sri Lanka participated.
Vietnam Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam highlighted Vietnam’s achievements in 2024. The country maintained its status as an economic leader in the region and globally, with GDP growth surpassing seven percent. Export revenue reached over USD 810 billion, resulting in a trade surplus of over $25 billion, and nearly USD 40 billion foreign investments. Tourist arrivals were also impressive, nearing pre-pandemic levels with over 18 million visitors. The country’s foreign ties also thrived, enhancing its international standing through bilateral and multilateral engagements.
The country is gathering all forces and strengths to steadily move into a new era – the era of the nation’s rise for strong development, civilisation and prosperity.
The Ambassador praised the Vietnamese community in Sri Lanka for their contributions to local development and the strengthening of Vietnam-Sri Lanka ties. In 2024, the community and the Embassy collaborated on many impactful activities, such as Vietnam Day and President Ho Chi Minh’s Birth Anniversary on May 17, National Day on September 2, Vietnamese Women’s Day on October 20, Cultural Festivals and International Charity Fairs held by Sri Lankan agencies and societies. These events have helped Sri Lankans and international friends learn more about Vietnamese culture and people.
Ambassador Trinh Thi Tam said that 2025 is a pivotal year, marking the 55th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Sri Lanka. It also coincides with significant national milestones, including the 135th anniversary of the late President Ho Chi Minh’s birth, the 95th anniversary of the Vietnamese Communist Party, the 80th anniversary of the National Day and the 50th anniversary of Vietnam’s reunification. The Embassy will host various political, cultural, and economic events to deepen Sri Lankans’ understanding of Vietnam and strengthen bilateral relations.
The celebrations featured traditional Tet dishes from regions of Vietnam, including banh chung, banh tet, gio, sticky rice, bitter melon soup, and pickled vegetables. Attendees enjoyed family games and sang Vietnamese songs, creating a warm and festive ambiance.
