A working holiday scheme between Vietnam and New Zealand provides the legal framework for young people to enjoy reciprocal working-holiday opportunities in each other's country.

It was signed on Dec. 29 in Hanoi by the Minister of Labour, Invalids and Social Affairs, Pham Thi Hai Chuyen, and New Zealand Ambassador to Vietnam Heather Riddell.

It opens the door to new opportunities for youth to gain a better appreciation of the host country's language and culture, thereby strengthening ties between the two countries.

It is the first of its type that Vietnam has signed. However, New Zealand has similar arrangements with more than 30 other countries.

The scheme will enable young people to have an extended holiday to experience the lifestyle and culture of the host country. Participants can also work and study during their visit.

Once the arrangement comes into effect, it will allow up to 100 young citizens from each country aged between 18 and 30 to work in the two countries each year./.