Vietnam, Venezuela enhance people-to-people exchanges

Hanoi (VNA) – A cultural and sports exchange programme between Vietnam and Venezuela was opened in Caracas on April 19.

The event was held by the Vietnamese Embassy, the Venezuela - Vietnam Friendship House, and the Caracas administration on the occasion of the Independence Declaration Day of Venezuela and the Day of Solidarity with the People of Venezuela.

On behalf of the local administration, Armando Graterol, member of the people’s council of Coche Parish, where the exchange took place, affirmed that the Venezuelan people have great love and respect for late President Ho Chi Minh who led the Vietnamese revolution to success.

He said he hopes the Embassy and the House will keep working together to organise more similar activities to strengthen people-to-people ties and help Caracas residents learn more about the culture, history, as well as beauty of Vietnam.

Looking back on important milestones in the two countries’ relations, Carolus Wimmer, head of the Venezuela - Vietnam Friendship House, noted that throughout history, people-to-people diplomacy has always been an important pillar in the enhancement of bilateral ties, and this event also aimed to help with that.

Doan Bao Trung, Chargé d’affaires of the Vietnamese Embassy in Venezuela, said the two countries have maintained and intensified their traditional friendship, underlining Vietnam’s consistent support for the Venezuelan Government and people in protecting their sovereignty and independence.

He also highly valued the cultural and sport exchange programme and described it as a chance to tighten people-to-people links along with the two countries’ relations at large.

The programme, held at Hugo Chavez Park in Caracas, features a number of cultural performances and sports events and will last through May 13./.