At a reception given to Mr Triet, who began an official visit to Spain on December 13, the King expressed his belief that the friendly and cooperative ties between Spain and Vietnam will further develop thanks to strong resolve from both sides.

President Triet praised Spain’s role and position in the European Union and the world, especially its efforts to address global issues such as the global economic recession, climate change, poverty reduction and epidemics.

He thanked the King, the government and people of Spain for supporting Vietnamese people to overcome the aftermath of recent tropical storms Ketsana and Mirinae.

He noted that since the 2006 visit to Vietnam by the King and the Queen, cooperative ties between Vietnam and Spain have fared well, particularly in trade exchange. Bilateral cooperation in culture and education has been promoted through the teaching of Spanish in Vietnam and the exchange of art troupes.

President Triet appreciated Spain’s development aid to Vietnam, helping improve the people’s living conditions. He thanked the Spanish government for providing continued development aid to Vietnam in the 2009-2012 period.

Later, President Triet met with Madrid Mayor Alberto Ruiz-Gallardon who presented the city’s gold key to Mr Triet, acknowledging that the Vietnamese leader became an honorary citizen of the city.

Mr Triet described the gold key as a symbol of friendship which shows the two countries’ determination to promote solidarity and cooperation for the sake of peace and sustainable development around the globe.

In the evening, the King and the Queen hosted a banquet in honour of Mr Triet and his entourage.

The same day, Vuong Dinh Hue, State General Auditor, held talks with Manuel Nunez Perez, President of the Spanish Court of Audit. They shared information and experiences in the auditing sector to expand cooperation in the future.