The "Colors of Vietnam" and "Balade en France" festivals officially opened in Hanoi on the night of April 14 as part of the 12th Vietnam-France Decentralized Cooperation Conference.

A performance in the opening ceremony of the festivals on April 14. Photo: Huy Pham/The Hanoi Times

In his speech, Nguyen Manh Quyen, Deputy Chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee, welcomed the guests who gathered at Ly Thai To Park, the emblematic place of Hanoi, to start a special tour of Vietnamese and French places to enjoy their cultural features and cuisines.

He said the festivities will have great significance in celebrating the 50th anniversary of Vietnam-France diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the strategic partnership between the two nations.

In an open space, the "Colors of Vietnam" festival brings the charm of Vietnamese localities to the audience, showcasing the cultural characteristics, landscapes, and dynamics of local areas.

Meanwhile, in Hanoi, the third edition of the "Balade en France" or "A Walk in France" festival offers visitors the opportunity to sample one of the best food cultures in the world, try cosmetic and technological products, as well as interior designs brought by outstanding French companies.

"The two festivals embody the friendship and cultural convergence between the two nations with the message of cooperation and peace," said Hanoi Vice Mayor Quyen.

"I hope visitors will experience a world of special cultural experiences, and Vietnam and France will enter a new era of prosperity and dynamic partnership."

French Ambassador to Vietnam Nicolas Warnery said "Balade en France" with more than 50 brands will give the people of Hanoi the best taste of French cuisine, which is characterized by high quality, dedication, uniqueness, and creativity.

The festival also includes a series of activities to promote French tourism, hospitality, education, art performances, film screenings, fine arts training, and dance classes.

The festival is one of the important series of events supporting the 12th Vietnam-France Decentralized Cooperation Conference which takes place in Hanoi from April 14 to 16.