This is the first State-level visit to Italy by a Vietnamese president since the two countries officially established diplomatic ties on March 23, 1973.

President Triet was welcomed at Ciampino military airport by representatives of the Italian government, the Rome Air Force Commander, Italian Ambassador to Vietnam Andrea Perugini, Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Dang Khanh Thoai, the Vietnamese embassy staff and overseas Vietnamese in Italy and representatives from Vatican’s Foreign Ministry.

In the evening, President Triet and his entourage visited the Vietnamese embassy. Earlier, the State leader called at the Colloseum and the Garibaldi Hill.

President Triet is scheduled to hold talks with President Napolitano on the morning of December 10, following an official welcome ceremony held for the Vietnamese leader.