The programme, which marked the 20^th anniversary of the Vietnam-Ireland diplomatic ties and the 71^st Vietnam’s National Day, comprised an exhibition and art performances.

Opening the programme, Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Le Khanh Hai said that the event aims to give Irish people a deeper insight of a beautiful nation of Vietnam with perse culture and attractive tourist destination, thus fostering mutual understanding as well as friendship between the two sides.

Ambassador to the UK and Ireland Nguyen Van Thao and Irish Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Charles Flanagan attended the photo exhibition. (Photo: TTXVN)

Meanwhile, Ambassador to the UK and Ireland Nguyen Van Thao expressed his hope that achievements of bilateral ties over the past years will pave the way for further development of the cooperation between Vietnam and Ireland in the future.

Irish Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade Charles Flanagan highlighted similarities between the two nations, which is a foundation for their friendship over the past years. He also pledged to support Vietnam’s efforts in poverty reduction.

Visitors to the event had a chance to enjoy 40 photographs featuring traditional products of Vietnam as well as the country’s cultural heritage, people and landscapes, together with folk music and dances.

Earlier, Deputy Minister Hai had a meeting with Irish Deputy Minister of Arts, Heritage, Region, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs Feargal O’Coigligh, during which both sides vowed to strengthen affiliation in culture and art.

Mr. Hai also had a discussion with Maeve Nic Lochlainn from Ireland’s Ministry of Transport, Tourism and Sport on policies and action programmes in sport and tourism. Both sides agreed to consider the possibility to sign a specific agreement to lay foundation for their future cooperation./.

( VNF/VNA )