Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono and Buddhist nun Thich Tam Tri (Photo: VNA)

Four Vietnamese honorees are Buddhist nun Thich Tam Tri, Head of the Vietnamese Buddhists Society in Japan, Associate Professor Doctor Ngo Minh Thuy, Vice President of the University of Languages and International Studies of the Vietnam National University; Professor Vo Tong Xuan, Rector of Nam Can Tho University; and Nguyen Van Hoe, former headmaster of Dong Du Japanese Language School.

Buddhist nun Thich Tam Tri said the Japanese Foreign Ministry’s recognition is an honor for herself and the Buddhist community and Vietnamese people living in Japan, who have contributed to strengthening unity and friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

Japanese Foreign Minister Taro Kono expressed his sincere thanks to these groups and individuals for their part in Japan’s external relations. Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Vu Hong Nam said: “The Vietnam-Japan relationship is now at its best. Both countries are each other’s special partner in all fields. The two peoples have engaged in several exchange programs. About 330,000 Vietnamese studying in Japan have contributed to deepening bilateral ties.”

The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs has honored many Japanese and foreigners for active contributions and excellent results in promoting Japan’s friendly relationship with other countries. The honorees have advocated cultural, educational, religious, and literature exchanges between Japan and Vietnam, the US, China, South Korea, Cuba, and other countries.