Diplomatic corps pay respect to former PM Khai
VOV.VN - Numerous diplomatic corps paid tribute to former Politburo member and former Prime Minister Phan Van Khai at the Thong Nhat Hall in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi-based International Convention Centre on March 21.
They extolled the former leader’s contributions to Vietnam’s national construction and development, noting that he helped create a firm foundation for developing diplomatic ties between Vietnam and countries in the region and the world, thereby raising Vietnam’s international standing.
Saysomphone Phomvihane, Politburo member and Chairman of the Lao Front for National Construction Central Committee, highlighted former PM Khai’s contributions to the Laos-Vietnam relationship when writing in the funeral book.
Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Kunio Umeda also expressed his deep sympathy to the Vietnamese Government and people as well as the former PM’s family over his death, saying PM Shinzo Abe extended a letter of condolences to the deceased’s family and Vietnamese leaders.
The diplomat noted the late leader’s role in laying a foundation for the Japan-Vietnam friendship, especially economic links
Cambodian Consul General to HCM City Im Hen described the passing of former PM Khai as a great loss of the Vietnamese people. The late leader led the country in its path of development and helped reinforce the friendship and solidarity between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Singapore’s Consul General in HCM City Leow Siu Lin said during his term of office, former PM Khai maintained close-knit relations with Singaporean leaders and made positive contributions to bilateral diplomatic ties.
She said during his visit to Singapore in March 2004, Khai and Singapore’s senior leaders reached a consensus on the initiative connecting the two economies, providing a foundation for the bilateral cooperation.
PM Khai also laid a firm foundation for Vietnam to affirm its role and positon in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).
Representatives from the embassies of Cuba, Brazil, Nigeria, Bulgaria, and ASEAN countries were among the attendees at the mourning service. Philippine Ambassador Neol Sirvigon said former Prime Minister Phan Van Khai made great contributions to Vietnam’s renewal process. He left many legacies during his Prime Minister term.
A memorial service for the former PM is set to begin from 7:30 on March 22 in Hanoi and HCM City and a burial ceremony will take place at 11:00 the same day in his homeland in Tan Thong Hoi commune, Cu Chi district, HCM City.