(KPL) Minister of Information, Culture and Tourism Suansavanh Viyaket, representing the Lao government bestowed on June 25 a Third Class Labour Medal to the outgoing Head of the Vietnam News Agency (VNA) representative office to Laos, Mr. Pham Van Kien in recognition of his contribution to strengthening the friendly relations and cooperation between the two Parties, states and peoples of Laos and Vietnam.

Attending the award ceremony included Director General of the Lao News Agency (KPL) Mr. Khampheuy Philapha, heads of major media outlets and relevant officials of Laos and Vietnam.

Mr. Pham Van Kien has served as head of VNA representative office to Laos for three tenures with the first term between 2008-2011, second time 2014-2019 and third tenure 2019-2024.

Through practicing his journalist profession, Mr. Pham Van Kien has notably contributed to popularizing the friendship and cooperation between Laos and Vietnam, mobilizing funds from Vietnamese investors for the social-economic development of Laos.

Notably, in the Laos-Vietnam Friendship and Solidarity Year 2022, VNA has did it best in publishing a wide range of news stories, and features on the celebration of the year highlighting the great relations, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Laos and fraternal Vietnam.

Delivering remarks on the achievements made by Mr. Pham Van Kien, KPL Director General Khampheuy Philapha highlighted Kien’s role in strengthening the relations, cooperation and mutual assistance between KPL and VNA.

“Mr. Kien has served as a bridge between KPL and VNA mobilizing assistance from VNA including technical assistance for the development of KPL’s website, internet system, and training for KPL journalists,” said Mr. Khampheuy Philapha.

KPL