The first Japanese eloquence contest in Hai Phong in 2013 (Photo: JICA) A Japanese eloquence contest was held in Hai Phong on November 1 by the municipal People’s Committee and the city chapter of the Japan Business Association (JBA) in Vietnam.
Japan is currently the biggest investor in Hai Phong. More than 120 enterprises run projects there, including world leading companies like Bridgestone and Kyocera Mita, according to Yamamoto Akira, chairman of the JBA’s Hai Phong chapter.
The eloquence contest, the third of its kind held so far, has helped fuel cultural exchange and co-operation between Vietnam and Japan, he said, adding that it was also a chance for Hai Phong residents to learn more about Japanese culture and for the contestants to improve their language skills.
The contest’s judges were Japanese experts, including Director of the Japan Foundation Centre for Cultural Exchange in Vietnam Ando Toshiki, who served as the head of the jury.
In the final round, eight competitors who came from Japanese companies based in the city expressed their love for Japan’s land, people and culture. They also spoke about their lives in Hai Phong and its beauty.-VNA
