The ambassadors of Canada, New Zealand, Switzerland and Norway have come together in an event to celebrate Tet, organized by Hope Box VN, an organization that focuses on female empowerment and domestic violence.

All dressed in bright colors, making a grand entrance with motorbikes and peach blossom branches in hand, the ambassadors fully embraced the holiday in Vietnam's capital.

They also shared what Tet means to them. Then the four picked out peace blossom branches, took photos at a Tet market, and got to bake and decorate some delicious cookies. Needless to say, they had a blast!

Photo: Hope Box VN

A time to celebrate hope and new beginnings

The Ambassadors took the opportunity of working with Hopebox VN to learn about gender equality and protecting women's rights in Vietnam.

Video by Hop Box Vietnam

Ambassador of New Zealand Tredene Dobson said that this Tet holiday marks a special occasion.

"This is my first Tet in Vietnam and today is a great opportunity to learn what this holiday means for the people of Vietnam and to share some stories of hope for the New Year 2022."

Dobson also sent a message to the public about the Year of the Tiger, stressing that tigers are known for their courage, generosity, and their drive to help others.

"All of our countries must have the courage to nurture, educate, support and protect women and girls, especially to let girls find their voices and shout from the rooftops, 'the future is ours!'" she said.

Embassy representatives were spotted in the kitchen crafting Tet-inspired cookies with many shapes such as Chung cake shaped like a tiger painted in red, pink and yellow.

Deborah Paul, the ambassador of Canada to Vietnam, said that in the year 2022, we all have a role to play as partners and allies in achieving gender equality.

"Building a world where women and girls can do anything and be anything free from violence is important," said Paul.

The ambassadors could not hide their excitement when joining in traditional Tet customs and at the same time sending meaningful wishes for the new year.

Ambassador Ivo Sieber from the embassy of Switzerland thanked the host Hope Box VN, adding that he was grateful for the opportunity to meet and support these inspiring and strong women and together share special experiences and make wonderful memories.

"I hope for the strength to help people to face challenges and be bold about ⁿtheir passion to live independently both socially and economically. I hope for 2022 that brings long health, equal opportunities to everyone, particularly women and girls who had been even more marginalized due to Covid-19," said Greet Lochen from the Embassy of Norway.

Photo: Hope Box VN

The four ambassadors ended the video message by wishing Happy New Year to everyone. Their energetic shout truly shows the high spirit of the mighty tiger.

Gifts of peach blossoms and kumquat trees were shared to symbolize strength and vitality as well as luck and prosperity for 2022. Photo: Hope Box VN

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