Special relationship: Biarrizt, a city by the beach in the region of Aquitaine, France. — VNS Photo Tran Bang

It is with great pleasure that I send my best wishes to the readers of Viet Nam News to mark French National Day, July 14, 2014. France and Viet Nam have a unique relationship. The Declaration on Strategic Partnership, signed in September 2013 by our two Prime Ministers highlights the close and specific relation between our two countries.

This year is the "Year of Viet Nam in France". One hundred events are taking place in France to celebrate Viet Nam-French friendship.This summer, the programme of events is in full swing.

There is a wonderful exhibition in Paris. Soaring dragon: Royal Art of Viet Nam opened on July 9 at the Guimet Museum and is already a big success.

This year, the two countries continue to increase their relationship in the educational field by celebrating the 20th anniversary of the bilingual education programme. Created in 1994, this programme includes more than 85 schools in 16 provinces in Viet Nam and covers about 13,000 students. This is an ambitious programme, offering education in Vietnamese and French.

This year, we have also intensified the political dialogue. In current times, the exchanges between Vietnamese and French leaders are important. Our ministers of Foreign Affairs will meet again soon to exchange views on regional and international tensions.

It is not only a dialogue between strategic partners, but a dialogue between old friends. I wish you all a very happy 14th July.

Huu nghi Viet – Phap muon nam! — VNS