Music, Culture, Cuisine: Bridge of People-to-people Exchange Between Vietnam and the US

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An art performance at the program. (Photo: VNA)

The program was organized by the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations in coordination with the US Diplomatic Mission and the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. It aims to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In his opening speech, Dong Huy Cuong, Vice President of the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations, emphasized that the Vietnam - US relationship has gone through important milestones: from the reconciliation in 1995, to the Comprehensive Partnership in 2013, then the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023. This is a vivid demonstration of the historical reconciliation process, from former enemies to strategic partners, working together for peace and sustainable development.

Over the years, the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations, the Vietnam - US Society and Vietnam - US friendship organizations in localities have organized many cultural exchange activities, promoting people-to-people cooperation with American friends.

Dong Huy Cuong, Vice President of the Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations. (Photo: VNA)

In her remarks, Melissa A. Brown, US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, affirmed that the friendship exchange festival reflects the strength of the partnership and the growing vibrancy of people-to-people diplomacy between Vietnam and the United States. Over the past three decades, bilateral relations have developed robustly, expanding across key sectors such as business, education, health, and technology. The elevation to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023 signifies a new chapter, grounded in trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for the future.

Melissa A. Brown, US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City. (Photo: VOV)

Melissa A. Brown highlighted that, 30 years after the reconciliation, Vietnam–US ties have reached remarkable milestones. In 2024, two-way trade approached USD 150 billion, with the United States becoming Vietnam’s largest export destination. Cooperation continues to deepen across political, security, educational, and people-to-people domains. Each year, over 750,000 American visitors travel to Vietnam, with Ho Chi Minh City standing out as a vibrant hub for economic, academic, and creative exchange.

Booth introducing American cuisine. (Photo: VNA)

According to the Organizing Committee, the friendship exchange program drew approximately 5,000 attendees. A diverse mix of students, young people, and community members took part in cultural performances, sports competitions, and traditional folk games. Participants also enjoyed American cuisine and explored cultural booths and exhibitions showcasing the achievements of bilateral cooperation, as well as the contributions of businesses and non-governmental organizations from both countries.

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper (second from left) and young Vietnamese and American people. (Photo: VOV)

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper praised the event, noting that the exhibition booths, folk games, and musical performances served as vivid symbols of the strong ties between the two nations. He emphasized, “We have become closer through educational and cultural exchanges. This journey will continue because the United States and Vietnam share many common interests, goals and values. We are excited to cooperate with Vietnam and look forward to new achievements in the next 30 years.”

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