The remarks were made during her reception for the newly appointed Vietnamese Ambassador to Australia, Hoang Vinh Thanh in Sydney on February 11.

Governor General Bryce said she was very impressed with the good performance of Vietnamese students studying in Australia, saying that they would be a bridge to the constant development of relations between the two nations.

The growing number of Australian tourists coming to Vietnam to visit beautiful landscapes as well as learning about Vietnam ’s culture, history and traditional values provides another foundation for the promotion of mutual cooperation in the future.

The Governor General took the occasion to call for Vietnam ’s support for Australia to become a non-permanent member of the United Nations Security Council during the 2013-2014 term.

My Thuan bridge, Thanh said, is a vivid symbol of the fine relationship between Vietnam and Australia. He said he wished that Australia would continue its support, especially in finance to help Vietnam complete Cao Lanh bridge as scheduled.

He also called on Australia increasingly support Vietnam in fulfilling the role of ASEAN Chair in 2010.

At the end of the meeting, Ambassador Thanh conveyed an invitation from the State President of Vietnam to the Governor General of Australia to visit Vietnam at a convenient time.