The ancient city of Hoi An kicks off the second Hoi An lantern festival at Marktplatz Square in Wernigerode, its German twin town, on August 24. (Photo: VNA)Berlin (VNA) – Theancient city of Hoi An kicked off the second Hoi An lantern festival atMarktplatz Square in Wernigerode, its German twin town, on August 24 to mark the5th anniversary of cooperation between the two cities.
In his remarks at thefestival’s opening night, German Minister for Economy, Science andDigitalisation of Sachsen-Anhalt State Prof. Dr. Armin Willingmann expressedhis delight at the growing relations between Hoi An and Wernigerode.
He noted that over the past five years, the two cities haveco-hosted a number of exchange events and enjoyed successful cooperation ineconomics, culture, education and environment, addingthat he expects the bilateral ties will grow further towards sustainability inthe coming years.
Nguyen Van Son, Vice Chairmanof the Hoi An People’s Committee, hoped that the festival will be anopportunity for the ancient city to promote the beauty of its traditionalculture to locals in Wernigerode, contributing to strengthening thefriendship between the two peoples in the future.
Earlier the same day, Son andWernigerode mayor Peter Gaffet signed a memorandum of understanding forcooperation for the next five years, in which the two sides agreedto together implement a joint action programmee on climate protection andadaption to climate change, boost business partnership among enterprises, andoffer training for workforce in hospitality.
The second Hoi An lanternfestival takes place from August 23 – 25, during which Hoi An artisans light upthe old streets of Wernigerode with hand-made lanterns.
Craftspeople fromHoi An demonstrate lantern-making skills whilechefs offer the traditional food of theVietnamese ancient city. Artistsfrom Hoi Anand Wernigerode also stage a joint performanceduring the event.
Hoi An, a UNESCO-recognised World Heritage city in the centralprovince of Quang Nam,in co-operation with Wernigerode, provided a solar-powered system forpublic lighting as well as loudspeakers and lanterns last year.
Hoi An often holds lantern nightevents during weekends. All restaurants, cafes and hotels are decoratedwith colourful lanterns. –VNA
VNA
