On June 2nd, Ho Chi Minh City, the Vietnam – Southeast Asian Friendship Association (VAFA) and the Friendship Entrepreneurs Club (under the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations – HUFO) collaborated with the Global Organization of People of Indian Origin (GOPIO) and the GOPIO International Business Council (GIBC) to organize an important meeting and working session. This event aimed to strengthen comprehensive cooperation in business, culture, and academia between India and Vietnam. It affirmed a shared commitment to building a sustainable strategic partnership between the two nations. The event was attended by over 20 delegates, including scientists, education managers, and businesses from seven countries: Vietnam, India, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore, the United States, and Canada.

Photo: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan, President of the Vietnam – ASEAN Friendship Association of Ho Chi Minh City (VAFA), Dean of the Institute for Social Sciences and Humanities Research, University of Social Sciences and Humanities – Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, delivering a congratulatory speech.

Mr. Ho Xuan Lam, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO), extended greetings and best wishes to the delegates. He emphasized, “Green development has become a core pillar in the growth of many countries and businesses. HUFO is committed to continuing to support, cooperate, and create all conditions for domestic and foreign enterprises to connect and build long-term, sustainable business relationships.” Mr. Lam stated that HUFO also launched the Ho Chi Minh City Friendship Business Club in October 2024 to create a strong network among entrepreneurs, support leadership skills development, encourage creativity and innovation, and contribute to the sustainable development of the community and society.

Photo:(rightside) Mr. Ho Xuan Lam, Permanent Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO), and GIBC Chairman, Mr. Gunasekaran Sreerangan (leftside)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Phan Thi Hong Xuan, President of the Vietnam – Southeast Asia Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City (VAFA), Dean of the Institute of Social Sciences and Humanities Research – University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City, emphasized that the relationship between Vietnam and the global business community, especially in green trade, green technology, and innovation, is crucial for promoting meaningful cooperation. She believes that Vietnamese and Indian businesses can collaborate to create new value chains that transcend regional boundaries and reach globally. VAFA is committed to promoting cooperation with major organizations such as GOPIO-GIBC and INCHAM, focusing on enhancing cultural and economic exchange, while supporting initiatives to connect the young business communities of both nations. She also shared about a study exploring the dynamics of multicultural families in Ho Chi Minh City, particularly the Vietnamese-Indian family heritage, demonstrating a shared commitment to cultural diversity and comprehensive development.

GOPIO is the largest and most reputable global network for the Indian diaspora, connecting over 40 countries and thousands of businesses worldwide. GOPIO works closely with the Indian Government, especially the Ministry of External Affairs and the Ministry for Overseas Indian Affairs, to support the Indian diaspora and promote international cooperation. As green and sustainable products become a consumer trend, forming sustainable alliances is more crucial than ever.

Photo: Mr. Thao Le, Representative of the International Vegetarian Union (IVU) and Founder of An Chay TV, stated upon officially assuming the role of Vice Chairman of the GOPIO International Business Council (GIBC) in Vietnam

Mr. Thao Le, Representative of the International Vegetarian Union (IVU) and Founder of An Chay TV, stated upon officially assuming the role of Vice Chairman of the GOPIO International Business Council (GIBC) in Vietnam: “I believe Vietnam is becoming a strong strategic partner in Southeast Asia, especially in trade, technology, innovation, and sustainable development. In my new role, I will strive to support sustainable economic activities – particularly in plant-based business models and green agriculture – to protect the environment, improve public health, and build a sustainable future.”

The forum was attended by GOPIO leaders, including Mr. Gunasekaran Sreerangan – President of GOPIO Malaysia and Chairman of GIBC, Mr. Ganesan Arunasalam – Secretary-General of GIBC, Vice President of GOPIO International North America, and Mr. Thirunal Karasu – Advisor to GIBC Singapore.

Photo: Mr. Gunasekaran Sreerangan – President of GOPIO Malaysia and Chairman of GIBC

GIBC Chairman, Mr. Gunasekaran Sreerangan, spoke about the history of GOPIO: “Developing from a community, it has now become a large organization, with high-level human resources, and advanced education for children internationally. With a community of 35 million people of Indian origin worldwide and 1.4 billion Indian nationals, GOPIO aims to connect to nurture businesses, strengthen trade ties, and innovate for a more civilized education. To achieve that goal, we look forward to working with other businesses from China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan, and the US,…“

Picture: GIBC Secretary-General, Mr. Ganesan Arunasalam – Vice Presient of GOPIO International North-America

GIBC Secretary-General, Mr. Ganesan Arunasalam, Vice President of GOPIO International N.A also shared about the GOPIO-GIBC International Business Summit, taking place from August 23 to 26, 2025, in Puducherry, India. The event is expected to attract over 600 delegates from more than 50 countries and feature over 200 exhibition booths, focusing on diverse sectors such as information technology and IT services, real estate development, healthcare and pharmaceuticals, finance and investment, education and skills development, food and agriculture, renewable energy and sustainable technology, manufacturing and export, tourism and hospitality, fashion and textiles, entertainment and media, e-commerce and retail. Mr. Ganesan also shared his interest in vetiver grass for environmental protection, soil improvement, and erosion control, as well as the economic benefits of vetiver roots in perfumery and cosmetics.

Photo: Mr. Thirunal, advisor to GIBC Singapore

Mr. Thirunal, advisor to GIBC Singapore, expressed his pleasure in connecting and emphasized the essential importance of networking in life and work. With 20 years of experience regularly visiting Vietnam, he acknowledged the country’s outstanding development and significant investment potential, especially as businesses are shifting from China. He affirmed that Singapore is a strong international financial and business hub and, in his advisory role, is willing to support businesses wishing to expand in Singapore.

 

Photo: Mr. Mohan Ramesh Anand, Former Chairman of INCHAM, Executive Committee Member of INCHAM & Managing Director Canopus Group of Company

Mr. Mohan Ramesh Anand, Executive Committee Member of INCHAM and former Chairman of INCHAM Vietnam, shared positive assessments on the development of the investment and business environment in Vietnam, especially in the fields of technology, healthcare, and education. He affirmed that INCHAM is ready to continue its role as a bridge to promote cooperation between the Indian business community in Vietnam and local partners, thereby contributing to the sustainable development of both nations.

This event marks a promising start for a long-term and sustainable cooperative relationship between India and Vietnam, not only in business but also in cultural and academic exchange.

The delegates took a commemorative photo

The delegates took a commemorative photo

The delegates took a commemorative photo

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