On the evening of May 30, at Hai Phong’s 1-5 Cinema, the Hai Phong Department of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Vietnam, organized a screening of the film “Admiral Michiel De Ruyter” as part of a series of cultural exchange activities marking the friendly visit of the Royal Netherlands Navy frigate HNLMS De Ruyter to Hai Phong.
The event was attended by representatives of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Vietnam, leaders of various municipal departments and agencies, officers and crew members of HNLMS De Ruyter, as well as a large number of local residents, youth union members, and students.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Bui Ngoc Hai, Deputy Director of the Hai Phong Department of Foreign Affairs, emphasized that cinema is one of the most influential forms of cultural exchange, capable of connecting people beyond geographical distances, language barriers, and cultural differences. Through cinematic works, audiences not only enjoy artistic experiences but also gain deeper insights into the history, culture, people, and distinctive values of each nation.
According to Mr. Bui Ngoc Hai, “Admiral Michiel De Ruyter” is one of the Netherlands’ most outstanding films, portraying the life and career of Admiral Michiel de Ruyter—a national hero and one of the most distinguished naval commanders in Dutch history. The legendary admiral is not only closely associated with the Netherlands’ long-standing maritime tradition but also symbolizes courage, responsibility, and dedication to national interests.
He affirmed that organizing the film screening on the occasion of the Royal Netherlands Navy vessel’s visit to Hai Phong carries special significance, contributing to greater mutual understanding, promoting cultural exchange, and further strengthening the friendship between the peoples of Vietnam and the Netherlands. The event also provides an opportunity for residents of the Port City to learn more about Dutch history and culture, thereby helping to nurture the foundation of friendship between the two countries.
Speaking at the event, Mr. Jens Kuitert, Cultural Attaché of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Vietnam, expressed his delight that the film was being introduced to audiences in Hai Phong during the special occasion of HNLMS De Ruyter’s visit. He noted that the film not only tells the story of one of the Netherlands’ most renowned historical figures but also reflects values such as courage, solidarity, and responsibility toward the community. He expressed hope that the film would provide Hai Phong audiences with interesting perspectives on Dutch history, culture, and maritime traditions, while also helping them better understand the significance of the name HNLMS De Ruyter—a vessel named after the legendary Dutch admiral.
The screening was one of the highlight cultural exchange activities organized during the friendly visit of HNLMS De Ruyter to Hai Phong. With its rich historical content and profound humanistic values, “Admiral Michiel De Ruyter” attracted significant interest and enthusiastic participation from the audience.
Through practical and meaningful activities such as this evening’s film screening, Hai Phong continues to affirm its image as a dynamic, open, and internationally engaged city that places great importance on people-to-people diplomacy and international cultural exchange. These activities also serve as an important foundation for further deepening the friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the Netherlands in general, and between Hai Phong and its Dutch partners in particular, in the years ahead.
Tuyet Mai