Cultural event celebrates 45 years of Belgium - Vietnam diplomatic relations

(VNF) - A cultural event entitled “A Touch of Belgium” was hosted by the Belgian Embassy in Hanoi to celebrate the 45^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between two countries with various special events on May 12^th.

Hanoians are greeted by the beloved blue creatures called Smurfs – who are celebrating their 60^th birthday this year.

The event began at 2pm with the screening of three episodes in English with Vietnamese subtitles of The Smurfs movies at the main stage on the occasion of the 60^th anniversary of the famous cartoon characters (1958-2018). The Smurfs were originally created by the Belgian illustrator Pierre Culliford (Peyo) in 1958, and have since conquered the world of animation.

Other Smurf-related activities like colouring and drawing was took place in the two designated creative areas.

The smurf presence was organised in collaboration with Wallonie-Bruxelles International, who are simultaneously hosting the Heritage Exhibition on The Smurfs at the Imperial Citadel till June 4^th.

Crafting in the creative “Smurfs corner”.

Audiences also had a chance to enjoy a wide range of cultural activities and arts performances by Belgian contemporary scene and Vietnamese artists.

The Majorettes, made up of ten women and one man, with their swift baton twirling and vibrant choreography, performed their most well-known parades with live fanfare music from Hanoi Brass Band and cooperated with the Pinky Cheerleading Squad of Vietnamese students from Foreign Trade University and children club Be Singer Hanoi.

In addition, many activities for children such as gardening, art and crafts also was held during the event.

Belgian treats was also available at the event, such as crispy fries, sweet chocolate, fluffy waffles coupled with ice-cream, refreshments and ice cold beer which any Belgian cultural undertaking would not be complete without.

Belgium Ambassador to Vietnam Jehanne Roccas; Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee Le Hong Son and other delegates drink Belgian beer.

Speaking at the event, Belgium Ambassador to Vietnam Jehanne Roccas said, “To celebrate the 45^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Belgium and Vietnam (March 22^nd, 1973- 2018), the Embassy aims to organise creative, artistic and cultural activities that introduce Belgian contemporary culture to a wide Vietnamese audience.”

It features family-friendly activities, information about Belgian funded projects in Vietnam, beloved Belgian culinary products such as chocolate, fries, waffles, ice-cream, beer; and showcases the best of what Belgian contemporary culture has to offer, she added.

Vice Chairman of the Hanoi People’s Committee, Le Hong Son lauded the organisation of A Touch of Belgium, an unique cultural entertainment event which will bring such activity publicly to celebrate the two countries’ fruitful friendship right in the heart of Vietnam.

“The event is a real success. Through activities like this, Hanoians are being able to experience the culture of Belgium from music and art to food”, said Son./.

Eleven members of the Brussels-based Majoretteketet perform at the event.

The Pinky Cheerleading Squad of Vietnamese students from Foreign Trade University

A joint performance with children club Be Singer Hanoi.

Hien Trinh