Pretoria, South Africa – Today, on May 19, 2023, Deputy Minister Alvin Botes hosted a farewell breakfast at the Johnny Makhathini Diplomatic Guesthouse in honor of Ambassador Hoang Van Loi, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam. The event marked the end of Ambassador Van Loi’s tour of duty in South Africa, highlighting the significant contributions he made to advancing bilateral relations between the two countries.
The farewell breakfast was attended by the Heads of Mission of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) Pretoria Committee, further emphasizing the importance of regional cooperation and partnership in fostering diplomatic ties.
This year holds special significance for South Africa and Vietnam as they celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations. On December 22, 1993, the two countries forged diplomatic ties, and over the past three decades, they have strengthened their relationship in various fields, including trade, investment, culture, and people-to-people exchanges.
Deputy Minister Alvin Botes expressed his gratitude to Ambassador Van Loi for his dedicated efforts in promoting cooperation and friendship between South Africa and Vietnam. Throughout his assignment, which began in 2020, Ambassador Van Loi played a crucial role in fostering closer ties and facilitating meaningful engagement between the two nations.
The farewell breakfast provided an opportunity for attendees to acknowledge the achievements made during Ambassador Van Loi’s tenure and to express their appreciation for his significant contributions. His commitment and hard work have greatly enhanced the bilateral relationship and laid the foundation for future collaboration between South Africa and Vietnam.
As Ambassador Van Loi concludes his tour of duty, he leaves behind a legacy of strengthened ties and fruitful cooperation between the two countries. His dedication to advancing the interests of both nations will be remembered and appreciated as South Africa and Vietnam continue to build upon the foundations he helped establish.
The event concluded with warm wishes for Ambassador Van Loi’s future endeavors and heartfelt appreciation for his unwavering commitment to deepening the friendship and cooperation between South Africa and Vietnam.
