President Truong Tan Sang welcomed the ninth visit of Marie Bashir, Governor of the Australian state of New South Wales, to Vietnam, saying that it is a boost to the ties between the two countries.

The President made the remark at a reception held in Hanoi on November 9 for the visiting Governor, during which he thanked the Australian guest for her contributions to Vietnam, especially in the health sector.

Given that Vietnam and Australia have a lot of potential for cooperation in many fields, New South Wales together with other Australian localities and Vietnam should strengthen cooperation in areas of their strength, the President said.

He also asked the Australian state to help Vietnam’s agriculture in varieties and processing technology in the production of high-quality agricultural products.

In reply, Governor Bashir highly valued Vietnam’s contribution to regional and global food security, saying that after her visit, she will work with relevant agencies of New South Wales to promote cooperation with Vietnam in the application of science-technology in food production. She also said Australia and Vietnam have many conditions for boosting relations in the health sector thanks to the increasing number of Vietnamese officials and students coming to Australia for study.

Today, November 11, Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc 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. Marie Bashir affirmed her deep sentiments to Vietnam, adding that she will do her utmost to intensify the bilateral ties, especially in health.