India–Vietnam Relations: Harish Chandra Attends the 81st National Day Celebration in New Delhi

India–Vietnam Relations: A Celebration of Friendship, Diplomacy and Business Cooperation

The relationship between India and Vietnam is an important example of how mutual respect, cultural understanding and shared interests can bring two nations closer. Over the years, both countries have developed strong diplomatic ties and expanded their cooperation across trade, investment, education, technology and other important sectors.

The 81st National Day Celebration of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam in New Delhi provided a meaningful occasion to recognise this longstanding friendship. The event brought together distinguished dignitaries, diplomats, business leaders and representatives from different professional backgrounds to celebrate Vietnam’s national occasion and the growing relationship between India and Vietnam.

Harish Chandra, MSME Consultant, Chairman of Star International MSME Forum, Founder of United Consultancy & Services (UCS) and Startup Guru, attended the prestigious celebration following an invitation from H.E. Mr. Trinh Minh Manh, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to India.

For Harish Chandra, the occasion was not only a moment of celebration but also an opportunity to appreciate the importance of international relationships in creating new possibilities for entrepreneurs, businesses and emerging enterprises.

A Prestigious Celebration at the Embassy of Viet Nam

National Day holds special significance for every country. It is a time to remember its history, celebrate its achievements and recognise the values that shape its national identity.

Vietnam celebrates its National Day on 2 September, commemorating the declaration of independence in 1945. The 2026 celebration marked the 81st anniversary of this historic occasion.

The gathering in New Delhi reflected the spirit of friendship between India and Vietnam. The presence of diplomats, public representatives and business personalities created an atmosphere of cultural appreciation and international goodwill.

Such occasions have importance beyond the formal programme. They provide a platform where people from different countries can meet, exchange ideas and develop a better understanding of one another’s perspectives.

Harish Chandra’s participation reflected his interest in building meaningful relationships with international communities and encouraging Indian businesses to remain connected with opportunities beyond domestic markets.

Union Minister Kiren Rijiju Attends as Chief Guest

The celebration was graced by Hon’ble Shri Kiren Rijiju, Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of India, as the Chief Guest.

The presence of a senior Indian government representative added significance to the occasion and highlighted the value of continued engagement between the two countries.

India and Vietnam share a relationship that has grown through regular diplomatic exchanges, economic cooperation and cultural connections. Both nations recognise the importance of maintaining constructive partnerships in a changing international environment.

Events of this nature bring together representatives from government, diplomacy and business, creating an opportunity to recognise existing ties and discuss the wider importance of cooperation.

For business leaders and MSME representatives, these gatherings also provide a chance to understand how international relationships can support a favourable environment for trade, investment and professional collaboration.

Meeting Distinguished Personalities and International Dignitaries

One of the highlights of the evening was the opportunity to meet respected personalities and distinguished guests from different fields.

During the celebration, Harish Chandra had the pleasure of meeting and interacting with several prominent individuals, including Dr. Sandeep Marwah, Founder of Noida Film City and Marwah Studios; Shri T. K. Pandey; Bollywood singer Vicky Ahuja; and Shri Alok Mittal.

The gathering also included H.E. Mr. Erick Jean-Marie Zinsou, Ambassador of the Republic of Benin to India, the Ambassador of the Republic of Rwanda to India, and other respected ambassadors, diplomats, business leaders and distinguished dignitaries.

Interactions between people from different professional backgrounds can be valuable because they encourage the exchange of ideas and experiences. A conversation with someone working in another country or industry can offer a fresh perspective on business development, cultural understanding and future collaboration.

For entrepreneurs, such relationships can become an important part of professional growth. Trust, communication and a willingness to learn from others remain essential when building connections across national boundaries.

The celebration therefore represented more than a formal gathering. It was an opportunity to appreciate the people and relationships that contribute to stronger international understanding.

India and Vietnam: A Relationship Built on Mutual Respect

India and Vietnam have maintained friendly relations for decades. Their partnership has developed through diplomatic engagement, economic cooperation, cultural exchange and shared interests in regional peace and stability.

The two countries elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2016, reflecting their intention to strengthen cooperation across multiple areas.

Today, the relationship extends beyond traditional diplomacy. Trade, manufacturing, technology, education, connectivity and people-to-people exchanges remain relevant areas for continued engagement.

Both countries have growing economic ambitions and a strong interest in developing productive international partnerships. India offers a large consumer market, a diverse industrial base and an expanding entrepreneurial ecosystem. Vietnam has developed a significant manufacturing sector and maintains important connections with regional and global supply chains.

These characteristics create opportunities for businesses to explore areas of mutual interest. However, each opportunity requires careful assessment, market research and a clear understanding of the regulations applicable in both countries.

Strong diplomatic relations can encourage business engagement, but successful commercial partnerships depend on preparation, transparency and the ability to deliver reliable products and services.

How Stronger Relations Can Open Doors for Indian MSMEs

Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises play an important role in India’s economic development. They support employment, manufacturing, services, innovation and entrepreneurship in cities as well as smaller towns.

Despite their contribution, many MSMEs face difficulties when trying to expand internationally. Limited resources, unfamiliar regulations, a lack of overseas contacts and uncertainty about market demand can make international expansion challenging.

Stronger India–Vietnam business engagement can encourage Indian enterprises to explore suitable opportunities in several areas.

Export and Import Opportunities

Indian businesses may research demand for products in Vietnam and identify categories where their quality, pricing and production capabilities are competitive. Depending on the sector, opportunities may exist in manufacturing, textiles, engineering products, packaging and other goods.

Before entering a new market, businesses should study customer requirements, import rules, applicable duties, product standards and distribution arrangements.

Manufacturing and Industrial Partnerships

Companies can explore potential supplier relationships, component manufacturing, industrial cooperation and other forms of commercial collaboration. Such partnerships may help businesses improve efficiency and reach customers through established networks.

However, every proposal should be assessed on its commercial merits, technical requirements and long-term sustainability.

Technology and Knowledge Exchange

International cooperation can also create opportunities to share knowledge, improve production methods and understand new approaches to business management.

Smaller enterprises can benefit from learning how businesses in other markets handle quality, customer service, supply chains and operational planning.

Startup and Entrepreneurial Collaboration

Startups can use international networking to understand emerging markets, meet potential partners and explore business models that may be relevant to their products or services.

Building these relationships requires patience. Entrepreneurs should verify prospective partners, protect confidential information and seek appropriate professional advice before entering formal agreements.

The Contribution of Star International MSME Forum

As Chairman of Star International MSME Forum, Harish Chandra believes that Indian entrepreneurs should have access to wider business networks and better awareness of international opportunities.

Many small businesses have valuable products and services but lack the connections or information needed to explore overseas markets. A strong professional network can help entrepreneurs begin conversations, learn about new markets and identify potential areas of cooperation.

Business forums can support this process by encouraging professional introductions, information exchange, networking opportunities and discussions around entrepreneurship and international trade.

However, networking must be supported by practical action. Businesses need to follow up on discussions, assess commercial opportunities, understand compliance requirements and build relationships based on trust.

The broader objective of Star International MSME Forum is to encourage Indian MSMEs to think beyond geographical limitations and prepare themselves for sustainable business growth.

For entrepreneurs, international exposure should not simply mean meeting new people. It should also mean developing a better understanding of markets, improving business capabilities and making informed decisions.

United Consultancy & Services: Encouraging Business Development

As Founder of United Consultancy & Services (UCS), Harish Chandra is associated with the wider goal of supporting entrepreneurs as they work towards business growth.

For any enterprise, expansion begins with a strong foundation. Proper documentation, business planning, financial management, market understanding and regulatory awareness are important elements of long-term success.

Businesses considering international expansion should first evaluate their current capabilities. They need to understand their production capacity, pricing structure, delivery timelines, working capital requirements and ability to meet the expectations of overseas customers.

A business should not enter a new market merely because it appears attractive. Instead, entrepreneurs should identify realistic opportunities and develop a clear plan for pursuing them.

Professional guidance and reliable information can help businesses prepare more effectively, reduce avoidable risks and make decisions that support their long-term objectives.

Local to National to Global: A Vision for Indian Entrepreneurs

The journey from local business operations to national recognition and international expansion is an ambition shared by many Indian entrepreneurs.

A small enterprise may begin by serving customers in its own city or region. As it develops stronger products, earns customer trust and improves its operations, it may gradually explore new markets.

International expansion requires additional preparation, including an understanding of foreign regulations, market competition, logistics and customer expectations. It also requires a commitment to quality and the ability to maintain consistent service standards.

The Make in India vision highlights the importance of domestic manufacturing and industrial development. Indian MSMEs can contribute to this objective by strengthening their capabilities, developing competitive products and exploring appropriate international trade opportunities.

For many businesses, the first step towards global expansion is not immediately opening an overseas office. It may simply involve researching a new market, attending an international business event or beginning discussions with a potential distributor.

With careful planning and sustained effort, such steps can help enterprises prepare for future growth.

Why Cultural Exchange and Diplomacy Matter

Diplomatic relationships are often measured through agreements, official visits and economic partnerships. Yet personal interaction and cultural understanding also play an important role in maintaining strong international ties.

National Day celebrations allow guests to appreciate a country’s traditions, achievements and aspirations. They also provide a welcoming environment for people from different backgrounds to meet and develop mutual understanding.

For business communities, cultural awareness can be particularly important. Understanding local practices, communication styles and professional expectations can help prevent misunderstandings and support stronger working relationships.

The Vietnam National Day celebration in New Delhi brought together people connected through diplomacy, entrepreneurship, culture and business. The occasion demonstrated the value of creating opportunities for dialogue and friendship between countries.

Such gatherings may not lead to immediate commercial agreements, but they can help establish relationships that become valuable over time.

A Message of Gratitude and Continued Cooperation

Harish Chandra expressed his heartfelt gratitude to H.E. Mr. Trinh Minh Manh, Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to India, the Embassy of Viet Nam and all distinguished dignitaries for their warm hospitality.

The 81st National Day Celebration was a memorable occasion to recognise the friendship between India and Vietnam and appreciate the importance of continued international engagement.

As India and Vietnam continue to develop their economic and diplomatic partnership, opportunities for constructive cooperation remain important for both nations. Indian entrepreneurs and MSMEs can benefit by staying informed, preparing carefully and exploring suitable business relationships.

Through Star International MSME Forum and United Consultancy & Services, Harish Chandra remains committed to encouraging entrepreneurship, strengthening professional connections and promoting the vision of taking Indian businesses from local markets to national and global platforms.

The celebration served as a reminder that international progress is built through mutual respect, meaningful engagement and a shared willingness to explore new possibilities.

May the friendship between India and Vietnam continue to grow stronger, bringing peace, prosperity and new opportunities to both nations.

Long live India–Vietnam friendship!

Harish Chandra
MSME Consultant
Chairman – Star International MSME Forum
Founder – United Consultancy & Services (UCS)
Startup Guru

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