Hanoi honors Palestinian ambassador for decades of service and deep ties to capital
Over four decades of studying, working and living in Vietnam, Palestinian Ambassador Saadi Salama has witnessed Hanoi’s transformation from a struggling capital into a dynamic political, economic and cultural centre that has retained its distinct identity.
THE HANOI TIMES — The Hanoi authorities on January 16 awarded Palestinian Ambassador to Vietnam Saadi Salama the title of Hanoi honorary citizen, recognizing his enduring contributions to the capital’s development and to Vietnam’s foreign relations.
Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Nguyen Manh Quyen (right) gives Palestinian Ambassador to Vietnam Saadi Salama the title of Hanoi honorary citizen. Photos: The Hanoi Times
Speaking at the ceremony, Salama said the honor brings both encouragement and responsibility, inspiring him to further promote the Vietnam-Palestine relations and work toward peace, justice and human dignity.
Reflecting on more than 45 years linked to Vietnam, including 22 years of study and residence, the ambassador said he has witnessed Hanoi’s transformation from a city marked by hardship into a modern political, economic and cultural hub that still preserves its identity.
“Vietnam and especially Hanoi, has become my second home,” Salama told The Hanoi Times. “It is a place for which I feel deep affection, gratitude and responsibility.”
Nguyen Manh Quyen, Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, said the honorary citizen title represents the city’s highest recognition for foreign individuals who show exceptional dedication, intellect and affection for Hanoi.
“The ambassador’s diplomatic efforts have created a lasting impact on Hanoi’s development and delivered real value to the community,” Quyen said, noting that the capital places strong emphasis on the contributions of international friends as it enters a new phase of growth.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs Ngo Le Van said the honor reflects deep trust and appreciation for Ambassador Salama’s sustained role in advancing Hanoi’s image and Vietnam-Palestine ties.
“Hanoi welcomes you as one of its own,” he said, expressing confidence that the Palestinian ambassador will continue to foster dialogue and serve as a bridge in bilateral relations.
Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee Nguyen Manh Quyen and Palestinian Ambassador to Vietnam Saadi Salama pose for a group photo with Hanoi officials at the ceremony.
Salama has served as Palestinian Ambassador to Vietnam since 2009 and as Head of the Diplomatic Corps since 2019. Fluent in Vietnamese, he is widely regarded as an Arab expert on Vietnam and Southeast Asia.
Throughout his tenure, he has actively promoted cultural diplomacy, translating promotional materials and the book Welcome to Vietnam into Arabic to introduce the country to Arab audiences.
In 2023, he published My Vietnam Story in Vietnamese, sharing personal reflections on his decades-long bond with Hanoi.
He has also hosted numerous international exchange events in the capital to strengthen understanding and cooperation among foreign missions while promoting Vietnamese culture.
Hanoi awards the honorary citizen title to foreign nationals who comply with Vietnamese law and make outstanding contributions to the construction, development and protection of the capital.
