Laos has conferred several noble decorations on a number of collectives and individuals in Vietnam’s central Nghe An province for their great contributions to the construction and defence of Laos in general, and Xieng Khouang province in particular.

The awards were presented by Secretary of the provincial Party Committee and Governor of Xieng Khouang province Somkot Mangnomek at a ceremony held in Vinh city on July 17.

It is part of activities to mark the 50 th anniversary of the two countries diplomatic ties and in response to the Vietnam-Laos Friendship and Solidarity Year.

Accordingly, the Issara Order, first class, was presented to the Party organisation and the entire people of Nghe An province, while 87 individuals and 56 collectives were awarded the Issara Order, first, second and third class; the Labour Order, second and third class; the Friendship Orders and Medals, and Certificates of Merit from the Laos’ Government and Xieng Khouang Governor.

The Secretary of Nghe An provincial Party Committee, Ho Duc Phoc thanked the Lao Government for the decoration, and wished the Lao Party, State and people as well as Xieng Khouang greater successes in national construction and defence.

He expressed his belief that the two provinces will implement more effectively their socio-economic cooperation agreement in the term 2011-2015, and expand exchanges and cooperation in healthcare, industry, forestry, science and technology, tourism, culture and sports.-VNA