At the ceremony, Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, praised Ambassador Salama’s notable contributions in the field of diplomacy, saying they had left a clear mark on the capital’s development and delivered practical benefits to the community.

Quyen said the honorary title shows the high regard of the city’s authorities and residents for foreign individuals who have demonstrated outstanding achievements, dedication, intellect and affection for Hanoi. As the capital enters a new stage of development, he added, Hanoi values the contributions of exemplary individuals and international friends in building a more prosperous, livable city with deeper international integration.

Congratulating Ambassador Salama on behalf of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Deputy Foreign Minister Ngo Le Van said the award reflects the trust and strong recognition of the Palestinian diplomat’s sustained contributions to Hanoi’s development and to Vietnam-Palestine relations.

“The capital is not only honoring you with a title, but also welcoming you as one of its own- a friend and a citizen,” Ngo Le Van said.

The deputy FM expressed hope that Ambassador Salama would continue to play an active role in fostering an open and substantive external environment, serving as an important bridge in further strengthening bilateral ties between Vietnam and Palestine.

Receiving the honor, Ambassador Salama expressed his sincere thanks for the recognition from the Hanoi authorities.

Reflecting on more than 45 years of connection with Vietnam, including 22 years of study and residence, he said he had witnessed and deeply appreciated Hanoi’s transformation from a capital facing many challenges into an increasingly dynamic and modern political, economic and cultural center, while preserving its identity.

“Vietnam, and Hanoi in particular, is not only my place of work but has become my second home-a place to which I have always devoted my affection, gratitude and sense of responsibility,” he said.

Ambassador Salama added that the honorary citizenship of Hanoi would serve as both a great encouragement and a significant responsibility, thus motivating him to contribute further to bilateral relations and to the pursuit of a peaceful, just and humane world.

Vietnam, Palestine mark 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations

The Vietnamese Committee for Solidarity with the Palestinian People (VCSPP), in coordination with the Palestinian Embassy in Vietnam and the Vietnam-Palestine Friendship Association in Hanoi held a meeting on November 29 to mark the 35th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Palestine (1988 -2023) and the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People.

Vietnam, Palestine step up people-to-people exchanges

President of the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations (VUFO), Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga on October 7 reiterated Vietnamese people’s solidarity with and support for Palestinians.