Deputy Foreign Minister Bui Thanh Son praised the Viet Nam -UK Network’s efforts in boosting mutual understanding between the two peoples at a working session with the organisation’s Chairman Ben Chapman in London on October 21.

Deputy FM Son presented the Friendship Order to former UK Ambassador Warrick Morris (Source: VNA)

Chairman Ben Chapman said while Viet Nam  and UK set up diplomatic ties 40 years ago, the image of Viet Nam  in the mind of many British people was only associated with war and rice fields.

This has prompted his network to do more to help his people have better understanding about Viet Nam  and contribute to deepening the two countries’ strategic partnership, he said.

Established early this year on the occasion of Vietnamese Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong’s visit to the UK, the network has acted as a bridge to connect the two countries in trade, investment, education, culture and people-to-people exchange, through its links with the UK Foreign Ministry, the Investment-Trade Agency and the British Council.

Deputy FM Son said as a developing country, Viet Nam  wants to learn from UK ’s experience in infrastructure improvement, human resource development, cultural and people-to-people exchange.

At the same time, Viet Nam  needs help in dealing with war consequences, mine clearance, English language training and tourism promotion, he added.

On this occasion, Deputy FM Son presented the Friendship Order to former UK Ambassador to Viet Nam  Warrick Morris (2000-2003 term) in recognition of his contributions to the friendship between the two countries.

He also delivered the Vietnamese Foreign Minister’s certificate of merit to Peter Lacy, Chairman of the Medical Scientific Aid for Viet Nam  , Laos and Cambodia organisation.

Deputy FM Son is on a visit to the UK and chair the third Viet Nam -UK strategic partnership dialogue.

(Source: Vietnamplus)