The Ambassadors of Laos and Malaysia in Vietnam were impressed with the beautiful natural landscape, loving, hard-working people and exquisite, unique cuisine of the S-shaped country.

In an interview with Mekong ASEAN magazine at the beginning of 2024, Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh said that after more than a month in office, working in Hanoi and some provinces of Vietnam, she feels comfortable. It feels like she's working in her own country.

Lao Ambassador to Vietnam Khamphao Ernthavanh (right) talks with President of the Vietnam - Laos Friendship Association Nguyen Dac Vinh on November 30, 2023. Photo: Dinh Hoa

"Vietnam has beautiful natural landscapes and many ethnic groups with their own cultural characteristics, creating a rich, diverse and attractive culture. Vietnamese people are big-hearted, love their family and country. Vietnamese people value affection, solidarity and care for each other. In addition, it is clear that Vietnamese people are very hard-working and creative in their work, regardless of public or private work," said Ambassador Khamphao Ernthavanh.

According to the diplomat, Vietnamese culture and Vietnamese people also have other outstanding characteristics that need to be researched and studied. During her duties as Ambassador of Laos to Vietnam, she will continue to learn more and more about Vietnamese culture and people; continue to promote cultural tradition exchange between the two countries, aiming to encourage the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two Parties, the two States and the two peoples increasingly flourish.

Having been on duty in Vietnam for a year, Malaysian Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai expressed his impression of Vietnam's rich culture.

"The warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people have left an indelible mark on me and my family," he said.

Malaysian Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai. Photo: Thu Ha

In particular, the diplomat loves Vietnamese cuisine very much.

"The exquisite flavors as well as the unique combination of dishes are a testament to the culinary mastery of this country. My favorite dish is chicken pho. The broth of this dish is reminiscent of when I went to the same delicious food that I used to eat as a child in Malaysia," he said.

Cultural and people-to-people exchanges are one of the pillars of Malaysia - Vietnam cooperation. Ambassador Dato' Tan Yang Thai said that in 2024 the Embassy will enhance cultural exchange and people-to-people exchange activities vibrantly with initiatives such as activities honoring traditions, activities cultural seminars and exhibitions, and joint marketing campaigns.

As for activities honoring tradition, the Embassy plans to participate in major events such as Nguyen Hue Flower Street as well as the 2024 International Travel Mart (VITM).

Additionally, to facilitate deeper cultural exchange, the Malaysian embassy will organize workshops and exhibitions delving into the rich heritage, traditions, and contemporary aspects of Malaysia and Vietnam. Collaborative marketing campaigns will also be initiated to promote the cultural narrative of both countries.

The embassy will also co-host a Malaysia tourism conference, bringing together tourism industry experts and enthusiasts from both countries.

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