Palestinian Ambassador to Việt Nam Saadi Salama presented the State of Palestine’s Star of Merit Order to former Vice President Nguyễn Thị Bình at a ceremony on May 22. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — A ceremony was held in Hà Nội on Friday to present the State of Palestine’s Star of Merit Order to former Vice President Nguyễn Thị Bình in recognition of her significant contributions to the causes of peace, justice, human rights and solidarity with the Palestinian people.

The event was jointly organised by the Presidential Office, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the Palestinian Embassy in Việt Nam.

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Việt Nam Central Committee and State President Tô Lâm sent a congratulatory flower basket to Bình on the occasion.

Presenting the award on behalf of Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Palestinian Ambassador to Việt Nam Saadi Salama described Bình as an outstanding Vietnamese leader, a symbol of the mettle and intellect of Việt Nam's revolutionary diplomacy and a steadfast friend of the Palestinian people.

He said the Order not only recognises Bình’s enduring contributions to the struggle for national independence, peace, and justice, but also represents the profound gratitude of the State and people of Palestine toward a friend who has consistently and sincerely supported Palestine over many decades.

The Palestinian ambassador affirmed that her name is closely associated with significant historical milestones in Việt Nam’s journey toward national independence, national reunification, and the construction of peace.

Former president Nguyễn Thị Bình with Palestinian Ambassador to Việt Nam Saadi Salama. — VNA/VNS Photo

In particular, through her crucial role in diplomatic efforts leading to the signing of the Paris Peace Accords, she contributed to laying the foundation for peace, stability, and reconciliation, becoming a source of inspiration for many peoples struggling for self-determination and justice.

He stressed that for the Palestinian people, Nguyễn Thị Bình is a symbol of courage, diplomatic intellect, and steadfast commitment to the principles of international law. She has consistently spoken out in defence of justice, human rights, and the legitimate right of the Palestinian people to live in freedom, independence, and dignity in their homeland.

Ambassador Saadi Salama stated that the medal-awarding ceremony is a vivid testament to the deep friendship between the Palestinian and Vietnamese people.

Former president Nguyễn Thị Bình speaks at the event. — VNA/VNS Photo

Both nations share a common aspiration for peace, independence, and faith in international justice.

Receiving the award, Nguyễn Thị Bình expressed her sincere gratitude to the State of Palestine, saying the honour reflects the friendship, solidarity and mutual support between the Vietnamese and Palestinian people in their struggles for independence, peace and justice.

She voiced confidence that the traditional friendship between Việt Nam and Palestine would continue to be strengthened by future generations of both countries.  — VNA/VNS