The award was given in recognition of his substantial contributions to developing relations between international organisations and Vietnam as well as involvement in Vietnam’s poverty reduction and sustainable development.

As Action International CEO from 1997-2000, Mr Singh put forward initiatives aimed at helping Vietnam and other developing countries reduce poverty through programmes on rural development, healthcare, education, credit loans and agriculture, which improved people’s living standards significantly.

In his address at the awards ceremony, Mr. Hong praised Mr Singh’s contributions to Vietnam and hoped that Mr Singh and ActionAid International would continue to provide their support for Vietnam.