Vietnamese Culture Displayed in Birmingham, UK

Recently, Aston University in Birmingham held a program to introduce Vietnamese culture as part of the Vietnam Days in the UK festivities, which are taking place from March 28 to April 27 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the United Kingdom.

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The event was a huge success, drawing in 150 students from Vietnam and other nations, as well as Vietnamese residing in the area. It was a wonderful opportunity for attendees to network and learn from one another, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie. Everyone was thrilled to be able to take part in the event, and it was clear just how much it meant to all those involved.

Ao Dai Collection by designer Anna Hoang is performed at the event. (Photo:VNA)
Ao Dai Collection by designer Anna Hoang is performed at the event. (Photo:VNA)

Held as part of the Vietnam Days in the UK 2023 from March 28 to April 27, the program included a captivating photo exhibition detailing the history of Vietnam-UK relations, mesmerizing art performances, captivating folk games, and an exquisite “Ao dai” (Vietnamese traditional long dress) show.

The Vietnamese Student Associations of Aston University, the University of Birmingham and the University of Northampton in the UK organized an event that was attended by 150 people, including Vietnamese and international students and overseas Vietnamese living in the city.

At the opening ceremony, Vietnamese Ambassador to the United Kingdom, Nguyen Hoang Long, urged the Vietnamese student community in the UK to take the initiative in introducing the image of Vietnam to their British friends, in order to promote solidarity, friendship, and people-to-people exchanges between the two countries. He stated that these efforts would be beneficial for both sides.

Guests play traditional Vietnamese folk games. (Photo: VNA)
Guests play traditional Vietnamese folk games. (Photo: VNA)

He said that within the framework of Vietnam Days in the UK, a range of activities are being held in Birmingham, including a meeting between the Ambassador and the Mayor of Birmingham, as well as talks to explore potential joint trade and investment opportunities.

The Ambassador underscored the importance of the Midlands region of the UK to bilateral cooperative relations, emphasizing that Birmingham and the Midlands will be the driving force for the Vietnam – UK relationship in the future, particularly in the areas of education, training, manufacturing, commerce, and investment.

Matt Dean, Director of International Relations at Aston University, expressed his admiration for the traditional art programs performed by Vietnamese students. He noted that these programs provided the British people with a greater understanding of Vietnamese culture and people.

Pham Van Nam, head of the organizing board of the program, stated that the event seeks to bolster the relationship and solidarity between the two countries. Additionally, it provides a platform for Vietnamese students enrolled in universities in the central UK to interact, while simultaneously strengthening the bond amongst the Vietnamese community.

Charlotte Pho