Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc on November 11 presented the Friendship Order to Australia’s Governor of New South Wales Marie Bashir, in recognition of her contributions to developing Vietnam-Australia ties.

Speaking at the awarding ceremony, Deputy PM Phuc stressed that Bashir has contributed to not only the healthcare and education sectors but also other fields in Vietnam.

She is the sponsor for the “forever learning” fund, a useful centre that has supported Vietnam in a number of health, educational and community healthcare projects, and created conditions for Vietnamese health officials to exchange experience with Australian colleagues.

He expressed his hope that the Governor will further strengthen the two countries’ friendship and cooperation.

Marie Bashir affirmed her deep sentiments to Vietnam, adding that she will do her utmost to intensify the bilateral ties, especially in health.

On this occasion, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs also awarded the minister’s certificate of merit to Bruce Robinson, Dean of Medicine at Sydney University.-VNA