Hanoi aims to promote people-to-people diplomacy with India, and further contribute to bilateral relations between the two countries.

ISCUF delegation at Bat Trang Ceramic Village, Hanoi. Photos: The Hanoi Times

Vice Chairwoman of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations (HUFO) Tran Thi Phuong set the orientation during a meeting with a delegation of the Indian Society for Cultural Cooperation and Friendship (ISCUF) on August 24,  while introducing them the culture, cuisine, and people of Hanoi.

The delegation of the ISCUF, an Indian organization aimed at promoting people-to-people cultural understanding and friendship, led by its Vice Chairman Kanungo Agasti, is on a visit to Hanoi from August 23-28.

Phuong highlighted the significance of the visit on the occasion of the 50^th anniversary of Vietnam-India diplomatic relations (1972-2022).

According to Phuong, the long-standing Vietnam-India relations come from a deep historical root of over 2,000 years  and began with the intersection of culture, religion, and trade between the people.

The delegations experience the pottery-making process.

“Both countries share similarities such as patriotism, humanitarian values, and the love for peace. They are further enhanced by the strong will in the fight for independence,” Phuong said.

During the ISCUF’s time in Hanoi, the HUFO introduced to the delegation Hanoi’s cultural and historical values by taking them to the Temple of Literature and Bat Trang Ceramic Village with a 700-year-old history.

ISCUF Vice Chairman Kanungo Agasti said he considered Hanoi his second hometown and has a special affection for the country and people of Vietnam in general, and the capital city in particular.

He expressed his impression of Vietnam’s socio-economic achievements, but still was able to preserve its quintessence values of culture and history.

Agasti hoped the visit would further help the delegation better understand the country and people of Vietnam and Hanoi, at the same time strengthening the multi-faceted ties.

At the Bat Trang ceramic village, the ISCUF delegation toured the Center for Quintessence of the Vietnamese Craft Village, many were taken aback by the talent of local craftsmen through ceramic products being displayed at the Center.