His Excellency Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc and a delegation of high-ranking government officials have visited the University of Waikato, to mark the significance of the educational partnership.
The Prime Minister and his group were in the country for two days, spending time in Auckland conducting business and bilateral talks. His only meeting in the Waikato was at the University, with the large contingent making a dedicated trip before flying out of the country.
The Prime Minister and delegation received a traditional Māori welcome when their motorcade arrived for the official ceremony, before entering the venue on a red carpet lined by Vietnamese and local students.
Vice-Chancellor Neil Quigley has a long-established relationship with Vietnam, and continues to develop new partnerships for the University of Waikato. During the ceremony, Professor Quigley acknowledged the significance of Prime Minister Phúc’s visit, and how privileged the University was to have his support for the work it is doing to further develop alliances.
Education NZ’s Chair Charles Finny paid tribute to Professor Quigley’s efforts. “He has been working tirelessly building the relationship with Vietnam, and this is the fruition of his work.”
Prime Minister Nguyễn Xuân Phúc said education had been a top priority during bilaterals with Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern, and would be an important ingredient in the future of the two countries.
Through an interpreter, he said he was truly impressed by the confidence shining through the eyes of Waikato University students. “With fire in your heart, creativity in your mind, and the knowledge and skills you are well trained in, these will make you key agents to elevate the relationship between the two countries, as well as bringing you prosperity and a brighter future.”
Prime Minister Phúc encouraged all New Zealand students to expand their vision to what is happening in Asia, and extended an invitation to visit Vietnam.
The University of Waikato signed four agreements with Vietnamese institutions during the event:
- a Cooperation Agreement with Viet Nam Social Security
- a Memorandum of Understanding with Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City
- a Memorandum of Understanding with Hanoi University of Science and Technology
- a Memorandum of Understanding with Ha Noi University