(VNF) - A ceremony was held in Hanoi on December 29^th to present the insignia “For Peace and Friendship among Nations” on Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Fukada Hiroshi in recognition of his contributions to enhancing the two countries’ relations.

The insignia is the highest award recognizes inpiduals and organizations that have made significant contributions to consolidating and strengthening friendship between the Vietnamese nation and other nations for peace, friendship, cooperation and development.

VUFO President Vu Xuan Hong (right) granted the peace and friendship insignia on Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Fukada Hiroshi. (Photo: Hoang Vu/VNF)

Speaking at the presentation ceremony, President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) Vu Xuan Hong attributed the great achievements in bilateral ties over the past years to tireless efforts made by the Ambassador.

During his three-year tenure in Vietnam, Mr. Hiroshi Fukada has made significant contribution to the development of friendly relations and cooperation between Vietnam - Japan.

Two nations’ high-ranking leaders have maintained regular visits and meetings and signed several documents aimed at strengthening friendship and cooperation, bringing practical benefits to the two peoples.

Japan is the largest Official Development Assistance (ODA) provider for Vietnam and ranked second among 105 countries and territories investing in Vietnam, especially the three projects including Nhat Tan Bridge, the second terminal of Noi Bai International Airport (Terminal T2) and Vo Nguyen Giap Street connecting the bridge and the airport.

In addition, the two sides are working together to attempt to realize the Joint Declaration on Strategic Partnership for Peace and Prosperity in Asia, cooperation in the fields of culture, education, science and technology, tourism, etc...

Ambassador Fukada Hiroshi, who has concluded his term in Vietnam, expressed his great honor to be presented with the prestigious award from the VUFO.

“I think the Vietnam – Japan relations are in its best period, we need to maintain such development, after receiving the medal, I have faith in that.” He said.

Mr. Fukada Hiroshi and President Hong recalled memories with friends in Vietnam. The Ambassador said after the end of his tenure in Vietnam, he will return to the Japanese Foreign Ministry and continue contributing to enhancing Vietnam-Japan ties./.

Minh Phuong