The association was established in 1965. During the war, it supported Vietnam by providing medical equipment and blood donations. Since 1975, the association has assisted Vietnam with healthcare, scientific and educational projects in Ha Tinh, Quang Binh, Quang Tri, Tuyen Quang, Son La and Lai Chau provinces.

On the occasion, Ambassador Tran Quang Hoan also presented a certificate of merit from the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organisations, to Madeline Sharp, former Chairwoman of the MSAVLC, who has helped Vietnam for over 40 years.

Mr. Hoan praised Mrs. Sharp’s dedication to Vietnam and confirmed her and said that she and the association’s contributions have helped widen understanding between Vietnam and the UK.

Later on the same day, a 90^th birthday celebration for Mrs. Sharp was held in Vietnam’s embassy in the UK. She received many letters of congratulation from the Vietnamese medical centres that she has grown deeply attached to, including the Vietnam-UK Friendship Hospital in Ky Anh, Ha Tinh province and a health centre in Quang Binh province.