The event welcomed Camilla Mellander, Director-General for Trade Policy at the Swedish Ministry for Foreign Affairs, alongside representatives from the Swedish Parliament and Foreign Ministry, ambassadors of China, South Korea, Mongolia, ASEAN countries, international organizations in Stockholm, nearly 300 guests from the Vietnamese community, and local friends.

The ceremony also honored a visiting delegation of deputy-minister-level officials sent by the Central Organization Commission of the Communist Party of Vietnam to study Sweden’s welfare state model.

In his address, Vietnamese Ambassador Tran Van Tuan affirmed, “September 2 is a sacred day in the history of the Vietnamese nation. It is also an opportunity to reflect on the longstanding friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and Sweden - a country that has consistently extended support and warm sentiment to Vietnam over many decades.” He expressed hope for further deepening bilateral ties in a meaningful, sustainable way that benefits the people of both nations and contributes to global peace and prosperity.

Trade Policy Director-General Camilla Mellander highly praised the traditional friendship and multifaceted cooperation between Sweden and Vietnam. She emphasized that events like this not only strengthen bonds between the people of both nations but also give Sweden deeper insight into Vietnam’s rich history, vibrant culture, distinctive cuisine, and dynamic, globally engaged identity.

The celebration featured the screening of the documentary 80 Years of National Development, offering vivid portrayals of Vietnam’s cultural, tourism, and socio-economic achievements, capturing a modern and energetic country firmly rooted in tradition.

Vietnamese cuisine charms Swedish guests

A highlight of the event was the recognition of Alexander Tran and Ayaan Wolven, members of Sweden’s national team who recently won bronze medals at the International Artificial Intelligence Olympiad in China (August 2025).

Alexander Tran is a Swedish student of Vietnamese descent, while Ayaan Wolven is the child of a senior official at the Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Their achievement was a source of pride for the Vietnamese community and a powerful symbol of the growing bonds between the people of Vietnam and Sweden in this era of scientific and technological advancement.

Another unforgettable highlight of the celebration was the rich culinary showcase. Guests were invited to taste iconic dishes from Vietnam’s three regions: Ca Mau prawn crackers with stir-fried clams, Hanoi spring rolls, Southern-style vermicelli with grilled beef, skewered pork with mac mat leaves, and Hung Yen fishcake rice crackers. Each dish delighted diners not only with its refined flavors but also served as a “cultural ambassador” that told stories of Vietnam’s diversity, creativity, and deep-rooted culinary traditions.

In the embassy’s courtyard, a photo exhibition featured dozens of images highlighting the Vietnam-Sweden relationship and scenes of Vietnamese people, culture, and landscapes, leaving a lasting impression on attendees.

In an atmosphere filled with warmth and friendship, international guests expressed admiration for Vietnam’s development achievements and confidence in the future of Vietnam-Sweden relations.

The event concluded with a resonant message: “Vietnam - a peaceful, friendly nation - remains a trustworthy partner and sincere friend, ready to stand with the international community for peace, cooperation, and sustainable development.”

PV