At a Wednesday reception in Hanoi for outgoing Ambassador Antonio Alessandro, Mr. Thuong said the visit was one of the highlights of the Ambassador’s successful term in Vietnam.

Recalling the difficult period of the COVID-19 pandemic, President Thuong said Ambassador Alessandro’s contributions helped the two countries maintain close relations, overcome difficulties, and achieve good results.

Mr. Thuong reiterated his invitation to Italian President Sergio Mattarella to visit Vietnam.

Ambassador Alessandro said the visit to Italy by President Thuong and a high-ranking delegation was a turning point for the relationship between the two countries.

President Mattarella said he was impressed by the outcomes of the talks and meetings with President Thuong in Italy and the dynamic development of Vietnam.

At the farewell reception President Thuong presented the Vietnam Friendship Medal to Ambassador Alessandro.