This is the second ASEAN+ Fair after the first Fair held in March 2023 at the initiative of the Vietnamese Ambassador in Athens while the Embassy assumed the role of Chairman of the ASEAN Committee in Greece (ACAT).

Vietnamese Ambassador to Greece Le Hong Truong (left) with Ambassadors of ASEAN countries at the Fair. Photo: Vietnam Embassy in Greece

After the success of the first organization, the organization of the Fair was agreed by ACAT Ambassadors to be included in the list of annual activities in Athens. This is a very meaningful activity of ASEAN and the Vietnamese Embassy in Greece. Participating in the Fair has contributed to enhancing and promoting the image of solidarity in the diversity of ASEAN, introducing the Association to international friends, and also enhancing its position in the world.

The fair is also an opportunity for each ASEAN country to promote the image of the country, people, cultural and culinary highlights as well as introduce their products to the guests.

The event also has the participation of other Asian countries such as Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh, Pakistan, the Hellenic Asean Business Council, and the Friend of Childs Organization (FOC).

The ASEAN Bazaar is a meaningful activity of ASEAN in general and the Vietnamese Embassy in Greece in particular. Photo: Vietnam Embassy in Greece

The opening ceremony of the Fair was attended by Ambassadors of ACAT, Japan, South Korea, Bangladesh, and Pakistan, and representatives of Greek ministries and branches such as the Director of the Department of Asia and Oceania, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Culture and Sports, Chief Representative of the European Union (EU) in Greece and local people.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Fair, the Ambassador of the Philippines (the current chair of ACAT and also the host country of the Fair) emphasized the significance and success of ASEAN+Bazaar in 2023 that Vietnam has started. The Philippine Ambassador affirmed that this is an important and very meaningful initiative for the development of relations between ASEAN+ countries and Greece.

Vietnamese cultural performance at the Fair. Photo: Vietnam Embassy in Greece

After the ceremony, distinguished guests and local people immersed themselves in the festive atmosphere, enjoying cuisine and unique cultural performances from different countries, visiting booths, and shopping for traditional products and unique handicrafts.

Vietnam News Today (Apr. 2): Vietnam Among Top Growth Leaders Globally In 2024 Vietnam News Today (Apr. 2): First severe heatwave bakes northern, central Vietnam; ASEAN Future Forum 2024 to take place in Hanoi on April 23; Vietnam ...

Vietnam's Economy Predicted to Surpass Singapore's In 2038 According to CEBR, Vietnam has the opportunity to surpass most ASEAN countries economically, including Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia, to become a high-income country by 2045.

ASEAN Future Forum 2024: Finding Answers to Big Questions The ASEAN Future Forum 2024 will be a starting place for new ideas to shape the future of ASEAN in a common context of many ...