Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh presented Labour Order, first class, to outgoing Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Thongsavanh Phomvihane at a ceremony held in Hanoi on September 19.

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Pham Binh Minh (R)
and Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Thongsavanh Phomvihane 

At a reception earlier, Minh lauded the diplomat for his efforts over the past nearly four years in Vietnam, contributing to fostering Vietnam – Laos friendship and special relationship.

 He said during the tenure, ties between the two countries’ ministries, agencies and localities have been expanded while links across politics, security, national defence, economy, trade, investment, culture, education, territorial border and consular works have progressed.

 Phomvihane, for his part, affirmed that the Lao Party, State and government always strive to reinforce bilateral special and long-standing friendship.

 He pledged that in any position, he will continue making active contributions to special solidarity and comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and Laos upon returning home.