As part of the Vietnam-US Cultural Friendship Festival, Ambassador Marc Knapper had the opportunity to enjoy the flavors of Vietnamese folk cuisine at Hanoi Book Street today [July 15].

US Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper and Hanoi's officials at the launch of the festival. Photos: The Hanoi Times

The event was jointly organized by the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations (HAUFO) and the Vietnam-US Friendship Association to celebrate the 28th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and the 10th anniversary of the comprehensive partnership between Vietnam and the US.

The event featured various activities, including a "Peace-Friendship" exhibition and painting contest for young participants, an introduction to local cuisines, and a "Peace-Friendship" art performance praising the mutual affection between the people of Vietnam and the US.

In addition, books were donated to support the "Community Book Library" on Hanoi Book Street.

During the festival, Ambassador Marc Knapper expressed his enthusiasm for the captivating musical performances by the students and teachers, as well as the vibrant portrayal of the friendship between the two countries. He expressed his delight at the traditional specialties of Hanoi, describing them as "great".

Dinh Hong Phong, Chairman of the Vietnam-US Friendship Association in Hanoi and Deputy Director of the Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, said that the establishment of diplomatic relations 28 years ago marked a crucial milestone in bilateral relations between Vietnam and the US.

A child participant in the painting competition.

"Despite challenges along the way, the two nations have made remarkable progress, particularly in trade, investment, education, science and technology, and addressing climate change," Phong said.

He stressed Hanoi's commitment to promoting cooperation with various US localities through meetings between city leaders, business forums, and cultural exchanges. With the joint efforts of the governments, people and capital city of Hanoi, he expressed confidence that the multifaceted friendship and cooperation between Vietnam and the US will continue to yield new fruitful results and uphold the significance of their comprehensive partnership.

Artworks from local children on display.

Ambassador Marc Knapper expressed his gratitude and admiration to HAUFO and the Vietnam-US Friendship Association in Hanoi for their significant efforts in organizing this meaningful event.

He highlighted the close collaboration between Vietnam and the US across various domains, with special emphasis on the vital role of education in bringing the people of both nations closer together.

The Ambassador noted that over 30,000 Vietnamese students are studying in the US, making Vietnam the fifth largest source of international students in the country. He also expressed his satisfaction with the cooperation between educational institutions and schools in Hanoi and various American localities and wished for further achievements in such cooperation.

A  painting describing the Vietnam-US relations.

Ambassador Marc Knapper reiterated the US support for an independent, strong, and prosperous Vietnam.

Vice President Nguyen Nam Hai of HAUFO stressed that after 28 years of establishing bilateral relations in 1995, the US and Vietnam have become reliable partners based on mutual respect. He expressed his hope that the US Embassy in Vietnam and Ambassador Marc Knapper will continue to pay attention, coordinate and support future cooperation activities organized by HAUFO.