An exhibition on the theme of costumes and daily life utensils of Vietnam’s ethnic minorities is underway at the multimedia library of Saintes City, France until June 30.

Visitors to the exhibition in Saintes, France. Photo: VNA

According to the organizers, the exhibition is one of the various activities to spread Vietnamese culture among the local population. The event is held under the "Vietnam is welcome in Saintes" program to celebrate 50 years of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and France in 2023.

Besides, a fashion show was also held on February 9 by amateur models from Vietnam, which attracted a large number of people, both locals, and tourists in France.

Nhung Lehoux, President of the Vietnam 17 Association and representative of the event's organizers affirmed that the presentation of Vietnam's ethnic minority costumes not only helps spread Vietnamese culture among the French but also encourages them to explore the country's colorful culture by themselves.

"By promoting tourism and culture, the indigenous people of Vietnam will have a chance to improve their lives and income," he said.

The costumes and objects of ethnic minorities on display belong to the private collection of the French collector Alain Dussarps.

These unique artifacts have been presented in Saintes for the first time, leaving a good impression on the city's inhabitants.

The Vietnamese fashion show takes place at the Multimedia Library of Saintes city, France. Photo: VNA

Annick Alhopez, a local, expressed her interest in joining the event. These costumes remind her of her last trip to Vietnam a few years ago.

"Most of the costumes in the parade are very unique, colorful, and eye-catching. Vietnam has many beautiful landscapes and its people are very friendly and cheerful. I love visiting the country," she told a reporter from Vietnam News Agency.

Vietnam is expected to organize a series of cultural events between now and June, including cartoon screenings, Vietnamese story readings for children, talks on Vietnam in secondary and high schools in France, seminars on tourism and economic discussions on Vietnam, musical and artistic performances by Vietnamese ethnic minorities, among others.

Dinh Toan Thang, Vietnamese Ambassador to France said that these cultural activities contribute to honoring the traditional cultural identity and beauty of Vietnam in France. They also help to further strengthen the friendship and people's understanding between the two countries.