The opening ceremony was attended by Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Nguyen Thanh Phong; representatives from the city’s authorities, general consulates and diplomatic corps in the city; foreign organisations, businesses and people who are living and working in Ho Chi Minh City; and local residents.
Addressing the event, Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee, Le Thanh Liem said that the festival is designed as a cultural and friendly bridge bringing the city closer to international friends who are working and living in the city.
He stressed that the foreign community in the city has become a part of the metropolis, helping to diversify the city’s culture while contributing to its dynamism and vitality.
On behalf of the guests, Indonesian Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Hanif Salim highly appreciated the organisation of the festival as it provides an opportunity for participating countries to learn more about the city, thus promoting cultural exchange, increasing mutual understanding and respect and enhancing solidarity.
Running until December 1 at Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street and Bach Dang Wharf Park in District 1, the festival included stalls displaying photos, objects, costumes and products of the countries, and an exhibition highlighting Ho Chi Minh City’s achievements in its international integration and development process.
The city’s culture, arts, tourism and traditional handicraft products are also being introduced to visitors, such as embroidery products, lacquer paintings, ceramics and products made from wood, rattan and bamboo.
Festival-goers can enjoy cultural and art programmes, calligraphy performances, water puppetry, circus performances and martial arts, and can take part in various folk games of Vietnam.
