Hand-over ceremony of No. 2 Le Hong Phong: A symbol of Vietnam-Iraq friendship
The hand-over ceremony of No. 2 Le Hong Phong marks a new milestone in the solidarity and enduring cooperation between Vietnam and Iraq, signifying a significant step forward in strengthening bilateral ties in a new era.
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| Mr. Ngo Phuong Nghi, Director of the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps, and Ahmad Moayad Rashad Al-Azzawi, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Iraq in Vietnam, at the Hand-over ceremony of No. 2 Le Hong Phong. (Photo: Pham Hien) |
On the morning of December 12, the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs held a ceremony to hand over No. 2 Le Hong Phong to the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq. This event not only signifies a new development in the diplomatic relations between the two nations but also reaffirms their steadfast commitment to cooperation and solidarity over more than half a century.
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| The Embassy of Iraq staff members and the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps at the ceremony. (Photo: Pham Hien) |
The ceremony was attended by Mr. Ngo Phuong Nghi, Director of the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps; Mr. Ahmad Moayad Rashad Al-Azzawi, Chargé d'Affaires of the Embassy of Iraq in Vietnam; Mr. Nguyen Thanh Duy, Deputy Director-General of the Middle East and Africa Department under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and numerous staff members from the Embassy of Iraq and the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps.
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| Mr. Ngo Phuong Nghi highlights the hand-over ceremony as "a new step in fostering Vietnam-Iraq friendship and cooperation." (Photo: Pham Hien) |
In his remarks, Mr. Ngo Phuong Nghi emphasized that the hand-over of No. 2 Le Hong Phong reflects the department’s commitment to providing residences and offices for diplomatic missions in Hanoi. He also expressed deep appreciation for Iraq’s valuable support in the past, noting that Iraq’s decision to reopen its resident embassy in Vietnam represents a new chapter in their longstanding friendship.
"This development continues the long-standing relationship nurtured by the generation of leaders and citizens of both countries. Vietnam will never forget Iraq's invaluable material and moral support during our past struggle for national defense and in the ongoing development", he stressed.
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| Mr. Ahmad Moayad Rashad Al-Azzawi expresses appreciation for the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps' support. (Photo: Pham Hien) |
In his speech, Mr. Ahmad Moayad Rashad Al-Azzawi extended heartfelt gratitude to the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps for its dedicated assistance in securing a new office for the embassy’s return to Hanoi. He affirmed that this decision reflects the traditional ties between the two nations and lays a foundation for enhancing bilateral cooperation in economics, culture, and education.
"This house will serve as a hub for advancing diplomatic negotiations, expanding trade and investment opportunities, and fostering cultural and educational exchanges between the two countries," he emphasized.
No. 2 Le Hong Phong, now the headquarters of the Embassy of Iraq, is a century-old French villa meticulously renovated and upgraded by the Service Department for Diplomatic Corps. Combining historical charm with modern standards, the building symbolizes the partnership and mutual support between the two governments and peoples. It also facilitates the embassy’s diplomatic mission in Vietnam.
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| Mr. Ngo Phuong Nghi and Mr. Ahmad Moayad Rashad Al-Azzawi signed the hand-over agreement for No. 2 Le Hong Phong. (Photo: Pham Hien) |
The ceremony concluded in an atmosphere of friendship and solidarity. Delegates celebrated the enduring and flourishing Vietnam-Iraq relationship, paving the way for new and promising avenues of cooperation.
The governments of both countries continue to emphasize the importance of bilateral ties, striving to enhance collaboration in economics, culture, education, and politics. During challenging periods in history, Vietnam and Iraq have stood by each other, exemplifying the spirit of companionship and solidarity between their peoples.
| Vietnam and Iraq officially established diplomatic relations on July 10, 1968, opening a new chapter of cooperation between two nations from different continents. Over the past 56 years, their relationship has weathered many challenges but has consistently been built on mutual respect and support. |
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| The Service Department for Diplomatic Corps, Ministry of Foreign Affairs has handed over No. 2 Le Hong Phong to the Embassy of the Republic of Iraq. |
