Lifestyle

The Cycling City: Preserving History and Dreams on Two Wheels

Daniel Stork, the Dutch Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, has a deep passion for fostering cultural ties between Vietnam and the Netherlands. He hopes to see the southern Vietnamese city preserve its rich heritage and envisions a future where the streets are filled with bicycles, a dream reflecting his desire for a greener and more sustainable urban environment.

Administrator

2 April, 2025

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Stork shared with *Tuoi Tre News* in an exclusive interview ahead of the upcoming Lunar New Year, or Tet, which falls on January 29, insights into his experiences in Vietnam and his perspective on the relationship between the two countries.

When were you first assigned to Vietnam? What were your initial impressions of the country?

Vietnam was among my top choices, and I was thrilled to learn of my appointment. My connection to this country is deeply personal, as my father worked here in the late 1960s at the Dutch Embassy.

My first visit in 2016 evoked a sense of tropical familiarity, reminiscent of my childhood in Cuba. Vietnam’s vibrant culture, from the ubiquitous selfie trend to the collective joy of karaoke and communal dining, creates a strong sense of community.

The country’s natural beauty, with its diverse landscapes and stunning nature, further enhances its allure. I feel a deep sense of attachment to Vietnam, much like many others who come to call it home.

Exploring the city on my electric bike or bicycle, I absorb the energy of the people and their unique way of life. There is a noticeable lack of aggression in Vietnamese society, contributing to a peaceful atmosphere.

Ho Chi Minh City, in particular, has embraced the world with open arms. People from diverse backgrounds, including Indians, French, Chinese, and South Koreans, feel at home here, drawn by the city’s vibrant energy and charm.

I find the Vietnamese to be incredibly open and welcoming. Your religious and cultural traditions are not closed off, creating an appealing sense of inclusivity. The keyword that defines Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City is “energy.”

What are you most proud of in terms of your contributions to the Vietnam-Netherlands relationship?

Fostering connections between people is what I strive for daily. I take pride in introducing individuals, businesses, and institutions from both countries, witnessing the blossoming of relationships and collaborative endeavors. Dutch companies employing Vietnamese talent and Vietnamese investors venturing into the Netherlands exemplify this thriving partnership.

Cultural exchanges and exhibitions that bring our communities together are particularly meaningful to me. Hosting events at my residence, where diverse groups intermingle, is like mixing Dutch and Vietnamese energies to create something unique and special. The growing number of Vietnamese-Dutch couples is a heartwarming testament to our nations’ connection.

Having lived and worked in Vietnam and Ho Chi Minh City, do you have any heartfelt advice to share?

Vietnam, and especially Ho Chi Minh City, exudes an incredible energy. There is a strong desire among the people to work hard, study, and improve their lives. This optimism is infectious and attracts many Europeans to your shores.

While Vietnam’s opening to the world may have begun a bit later than some other countries, it is rapidly catching up, making this an exciting phase in its development. The city’s architecture reflects this transition, with modern buildings rising alongside colonial-era villas.

I believe it is crucial to preserve the unique character of Ho Chi Minh City. Retaining architectural heritage from previous centuries sets the city apart and contributes to its appeal. The city’s historic backdrop, complemented by its natural beauty, is a distinctive feature that should be cherished.

The trees of Ho Chi Minh City, some of which are 200 years old, stand as monuments in their own right. They, along with the city’s architectural landmarks, create a sense of attachment and intimacy that modern towers cannot replicate.

Preserving the historic city center, as Amsterdam has done, is essential to maintaining the city’s unique identity and appeal. Ho Chi Minh City’s rich historical backdrop sets it apart from other cities in the region, where modern development has sometimes overshadowed the past.

How do you view the 400-plus-year relationship between Vietnam and the Netherlands? What are your hopes for the future?

Our nations share a long history of trade, dating back to the early 17th century. As important trade partners, we rely on global commerce and the routes that connect us. Agriculture is a key area of similarity, with the Netherlands being the second-largest agricultural exporter globally and Vietnam experiencing a remarkable boom over the past three decades.

The EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement further strengthens our economic ties, and we, as the Netherlands, are committed to fostering this connection. Doing business together creates mutual understanding and solidifies our bond.

I am particularly proud of our celebration of the 50th anniversary, where we organized a bicycle tour in Ho Chi Minh City. Cycling brings happiness, and I hope to see more people embrace sustainable transportation options, reducing pollution and improving the city’s environment.

Vietnam and the Netherlands share a rich history, and I am confident that our relationship will continue to flourish in the years to come.