The four diplomats from foreign countries strolled down the streets in Hanoi to meet with sanitation workers and street vendors. They wanted to express their gratitude for their contributions and also give them lucky money, a tradition known as “li xi” in Vietnamese.
“As we approach Tet and the lunar Year of the Dragon, we all desire a more beautiful, happier, and fairer world for ourselves and our children. This cannot be achieved solely by governments,” said Thomas Gass, the Swiss Ambassador to Vietnam.
Gass emphasized that in order to create the better world we want, it requires the participation of all people, organizations, and private enterprises. They should contribute with their resources, capabilities, and insights.
“Sustainable development necessitates a society where everyone can engage in discussions about what needs to change, how it should change, and how they can contribute,” he added.
During their visit, Hilde Solbakken, the Norwegian Ambassador to Vietnam, had the chance to meet Tuyet, a sanitation worker, on one of the streets in Hanoi. Solbakken expressed her delight in witnessing the pride that Tuyet takes in her work.
“Another Tet is approaching, and it’s an opportune time to acknowledge the contributions of workers like Tuyet whom I met today,” she said.
She recognized the hard work that workers like Tuyet put in every day, especially during Tet, to keep the city clean and enjoyable for everyone.
“Tet is a time for appreciation and hope, so I wish everyone a joyful, healthy, and prosperous Year of the Dragon, filled with opportunities for meaningful employment and personal fulfillment,” Solbakken added.
The video, which lasts over three minutes, also features Ginny Chapman, the Acting Charge d’Affaires at the New Zealand Embassy in Vietnam. She visited a street stall and handed out lucky money to Hien, the stall owner, as a way to recognize her contribution to Vietnam’s economic growth.
Chapman emphasized the significant role played by workers like Hien in the Vietnamese economy. She noted that they provide a wide range of goods and services, many of which are more affordable for low-income residents.
She also highlighted that street vendors provide an alternative source of livelihood for many people who may struggle to find work elsewhere.
“And to me, street vendors add to the richness and diversity of the Vietnamese landscape,” Chapman added.
She concluded by wishing all the workers, including informal workers, the best of luck and happiness for the Year of the Dragon.
Shawn Steil, the Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam, also shared his wishes for the new year, stating, “I wish all of us, including informal workers, a more prosperous, mentally and physically healthy, and supportive year.”
Steil stressed the importance of supporting informal workers and ensuring everyone has access to decent work for a more inclusive and equitable society.
In the final scene, the four foreign diplomats and some local street vendors and sanitation employees bid “Happy New Year!” to end the video.
Tet comes early to border soldiers
The organization of early Tet celebration for officials and soldiers away from home on the occasion of Lunar New Year is an encouragement for them to feel secure in accomplishing their tasks.
Wild peach blossoms attract visitors during Lunar New Year
The streets of Dien Bien Phu city, Dien Bien province, are flooded with the pinkish hue of wild peach blossom. The flower has become one of Dien Bien most distinctive and attractive features.
Hanoi children eager to wrap Chung cake as Tet gifts
To share a warm Tet holiday with disadvantaged children in remote areas, thousands of chung cakes have been made by children in Hanoi.
‘Cay’ cake – A specialty of Thai Binh province
Each locality in Vietnam has its own specialty that it is proud of. Visitors to Nguyen or Nguyen Xa village, in Dong Hung district, Thai Binh province are always invited to eat ‘cay’ cake, which is made of glutinous rice well blended with fat and ginger.
Neu pole installed at Hue Imperial Citadel to welcome Lunar New Year
NDO – A Neu pole, a tall bamboo tree with red garment strips used to dispel evil spirits during Tet (Lunar New Year) festival, was erected at Hue Imperial Citadel in Thua Thien-Hue province on January 28.
