In the first five months of 2024, Hai Phong has hosted numerous cultural diplomacy events, showcasing exciting and unique programs that promote the city's dynamic, friendly, and welcoming image to the international community. These initiatives aim to strengthen international friendships and connections through cultural exchanges.
The cultural performances held in the city were filled with vibrant sounds from traditional Korean instruments like the kkwaenggwari, gong, buk, and janggu, vividly portraying the agricultural lifestyle of Korea. The performance by the Chuncheon Duturu Nongak Arts Group (South Korea) was an emotional experience for many attendees. Besides, the growing number of cultural performances and exhibitions by international art troupes from countries like China, Japan, South Korea, and the Netherlands has not only enriched the city's cultural life but also instilled pride in Hai Phong’s development and increasing global integration.
Mrs. Hoang Minh Nguyet, a local resident, expressed that even without understanding the language, the audience could feel the universal desires and emotions conveyed through the performance. Mrs. Nguyen Thu Ha, another resident, shared how the traditional Chinese performance by the Nanning Arts Group deepened her understanding of the cultural and cooperative ties between Hai Phong and Nanning. .
As part of Hai Phong’s Cultural Diplomacy Strategy for 2030, the Department of Foreign Affairs has been actively coordinating with relevant departments to expand cultural exchange programs and integrate them with diplomatic, economic, and information activities. These initiatives, which included international events such as the 2024 Red Flamboyant Flower Festival, have helped promote Hai Phong’s image and its famous natural heritage, such as Ha Long Bay and Cat Ba Archipelago, to the world. The city hosted a photo exhibition with Kitakyushu City (Japan) and organized performances by art troupes from Nanning (China) and Chuncheon Duturu Nongak (South Korea), showcasing Hai Phong's cultural vitality.
The increased cultural exchanges also aim to enhance cooperation, investment, and trade. Eiichi Hosoki, President of the Japan Business Association in Hai Phong, emphasized the importance of fostering cultural ties, particularly through initiatives like promoting Japanese language learning in Hai Phong to strengthen mutual understanding between Vietnam and Japan.
Mrs. Nguyen Thi Bich Dung, Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs, highlighted that in the era of deep global integration, cultural diplomacy plays a critical role alongside politics and economics. She emphasized the department's role in organizing cultural activities as part of the city's socio-economic development plan, creating a dynamic, creative Hai Phong that stands out internationally. Moving forward, the Department of Foreign Affairs will continue to connect and expand partnerships to foster cultural exchanges and support the city’s economic development.