Speaking at the ceremony, ambassador Chinh praised Ms. Heijden’s contribution to Vietnam’s socio-economic development during her terms of service (2006-2010) in the country.

The diplomat said she took the initiative to promote the “One UN” initiative in Vietnam and align the UN organisations in supporting Vietnam.

She also worked very closely with Vietnamese ministries and agencies to implement the Millennial Development Goals and boost the integration of economic restructuring, poverty reduction, HIV/AIDS prevention, and the solutions to newly-emerging problem in Vietnam.

Ms. Heijden, who is now a sustainable development ambassador and Director of Department of Climate, Environment, Energy and Water under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, expressed thanks for Vietnam’s recognition and her confidence in the country’s development prospects.

She is committed to making greater contributions to the development of the Netherlands-Vietnam relationship.