A number of Lao officials have been presented with Vietnamese State orders and medals for their outstanding contributions to enhancing the traditional friendship and special solidarity between the two countries.

Vietnamese Ambassador Nguyen Manh Hung granted the honour to leaders and former leaders of Laos’ Ministries of Industry & Trade and Energy & Mines at a ceremony in Vientiane on September 10.

Among the ​are Nam Viyaketh, former Minister of Industry and Trade, who was conferred with the Independence Order, second class; and Somboun Rasasombath, former Deputy Minister of Energy and Mines, with the Independence Order, third class.

Speaking at the ceremony, Nam Viyaketh expressed his honour to receive the noble award and promised to double his efforts in tightening the friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.-VNA
VNA