Hanoi: Acting President Vo Thi Anh Xuan congratulated outgoing Ambassador of Algeria to Vietnam Abdelhamid Boubazine on his successful tenure in Vietnam during a reception in Hanoi on April 24. Xuan was delighted to note that during his tenure, ties between Vietnam and Algeria have seen positive developments in all areas. Bilateral cooperation mechanisms such as the third political consultation and the 12th meeting of the Inter-Governmental Committee have been revived after a period of inactivity, providing platforms to discuss measures to boost all-around cooperation. In 2023, two-way trade witnessed impressive growth compared to the previous year. Cultural and people-to-people exchanges have also consolidated the solid foundation of the two countries' friendship. Recognising the vast potential for economic and trade collaboration, particularly in energy and agriculture, President Xuan expressed her hope that Ambassador Boubazine would continue to champion these sectors. A stronger partnership in these are as, she emphasised, could contribute significantly to energy and food security in each nation and the region. She envisioned a future where Vietnam serves as a bridge between Algeria and ASEAN countries, while Algeria plays a similar role connecting Vietnam with African nations. Looking beyond the diplomat's current role, Xuan wished that he would continue contributions toward facilitating bilateral cooperation and people-to-people exchanges. Boubazine, for his part, was satisfied with the remarkable progress in bilateral ties over the past years, including in politics, economy, trade, and people-to-people exchange. He expressed his profound gratitude for the unwavering support that the Vietnamese State and people extended to Algeria during its struggle for independence, saying that Vietnam was one of the first countries to recognise the provisional government of the Algerian Republic in 1958 and established diplomatic relations following Algeria's independence in 1962. Highlighting ample room for coordi nation in investment, trade, agriculture, healthcare and environment, he concluded by pledging to remain a bridge between the two nations in whatever capacity he serves in the future, working to elevate the bilateral relationship to even a greater height./. Source: Vietnam News Agency