Best of both worlds: The Bosphorus, Istanbul, the only city in the world that straddles two continents. — Photo courtesy of the Turkish Embassy in Ha Noi

Today's Turkey stands as a testament to vision; an independent, secular, democratic and increasingly prosperous country. We are very proud of sharing this glorious moment with the people and authorities of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.

The founding fathers of the two nations, Mustafa Kemal Ataturk and Ho Chi Minh, waged similar struggles to liberate and modernise our respective countries. Today, Turkey and Viet Nam are both fast developing nations, further expanding their achievements, playing constructive roles in the world and looking to the future with confidence.

As we approach the centennial of our Republic, Turkey has set herself a number of goals for the year 2023. With her steadily growing economy, democracy reaching higher standards, resolute objective of joining the European Union, membership of the G-20, and active policies on international platforms, Turkey will never shy away from mobilising her wide experiences for the sake of regional and global peace and for the benefit of humanity.

Turkey's membership of G-20 is an indicator of her growing role as a responsible stockholder in global economic governance. Turkey has taken over the Presidency of G-20 for one year. During her term, Turkey concentrates her endeavours on the effective implementation of commitments made by G-20 members towards the goals of global economic recovery and inclusive economic growth.

Viet Nam also has similar targets for the future, the most important of which is to become a fully industrialised nation by the year 2020. With a view of accomplishing her national aims, Viet Nam is working hard to improve her education, infrastructure, energy, health, tourism and other sectors.

We consider Viet Nam as a strong and reliable friendly partner in her region as well as on international platforms. There is still room for intensifying co-operation between Turkey and Viet Nam, which has so far remained largely untapped. We have enjoyed friendly relations ever since the establishment of our diplomatic relations in 1978.

Hot spring heaven: Travertine Pools or Cotton Castle in Pamukkale, Turkey is one of the most stunning natural landmarks in Eastern Europe. — Photo misadventuresmag.com

Our economic relations are playing a pivotal role in our partnership. Bilateral trade volume has reached almost $2.2 billion at the end of 2014, making Turkey one of the major trade partners of Viet Nam in West Asia. During the sixth session of the Joint Economic and Trade Committee held in Ankara in January 2014, we agreed to increase the trade volume to $3 billion by the end of 2016.

Judging by our past performance, we believe we are on track towards achieving this target. In this regard, daily flights of the Turkish Airlines between HCM City and Istanbul indirectly contribute to further expansion of bilateral trade. Passenger flights to Ha Noi are expected to be launched in June or July 2016.

Turkish interest in Viet Nam is by no means confined to the economic field. The upward trend in Turkish-Vietnamese bonds can be seen in many other areas as well, including co-operation at the multilateral forum. At the bilateral level, our partnership expands into new areas including academic, scientific and technological co-operation.

We have no doubt that both Turkey and Viet Nam are headed toward a bright future and will continue their journey with determination. We are also confident that the bonds of amity and co-operation between our two countries will grow even stronger in time, allowing us to celebrate many more such anniversaries. — VNS