 | | Photo: VGP | PM Dũng said that Mr. Tomas Ferrari has played a practical role in promoting the vigorous development of bilateral ties in various fields, especially politics, diplomacy, economy and trade. Thanking Argentina for its supports to Việt Nam on multilateral forums, the Government chief confirmed that the Vietnamese Party, State and people always want to cement and deepen the comprehensive relationship with Argentina in the interest of the two peoples and for peace and stability in the world. The host suggested the two sides early organize the meeting of the intergovernmental committee for further cooperation and asked Argentina to consider granting ODA for Việt Nam. Earlier on the day, Standing Deputy Phạm Bình Minh, authorized by the State President, had conferred the Medal of Friendship on Ambassador Tomas Ferrari to honor the latter’s contributions to the flourishing relationship between Việt Nam and Argentina. "The Medal of Friendship is a honorable award granted by the Vietnamese State to individuals and organizations with great contributions to developing comprehensive relations between Việt Nam and other countries. Ambassador Tomas Ferrari, chief representative of the diplomatic corps in Việt Nam, fully deserves this reward", stated Deputy FM Minh. During his 9-year ambassadorship in Việt Nam, Mr. Tomas Ferrari has built up a good and friendly partnership with a number of Vietnamese ministries, localities, enterprises and socio-political organizations. He said that he considers Việt Nam as his second native land. He also pledged to do his utmost to nurture the friendship between the two nations. Over the past years, the Việt Nam-Argentina relationship has been consolidated and strengthened. The trade turnover hit US $80 million in 2008, tripling the 2006 figure. The two countries are now closely working together in wind and hydro power projects. By Phương Uyên | 