These comments not only reflect respect and admiration for Vietnamese culture and history but also contribute to promoting exchange and understanding between cultures.
Ambassador, Head of the Delegation of the European Union (EU) to Vietnam, Mr. Julien Guerrier: "Impressed with Vietnam's transformation"
Vietnam is not a strange country to me, the first time I came here was in 1996 and then I was honored to participate in the trade negotiations to join the World Trade Organization (WTO) in the period 2004-2005.
During the journey of nearly 30 years, I have been very impressed when following the development steps of Vietnam - that success is thanks to your proactive opening of the policy to the world and your constant efforts to improve.
In the context of the Indo- Pacific region increasingly becoming the center of the world, where Vietnam has a special influence in terms of economy, demographics and geopolitics, the EU has developed a strategy to engage more in this region.
I believe that now is the time to call it a “Vietnam moment”. For decades, the European Union and its Member States have been actively supporting Vietnam’s prosperous development and for us this is increasingly important. I also see that the Vietnamese and EU people have common aspirations. We share the same goals as Vietnam’s motto: Independence - Freedom - Happiness. It is a phrase that I see the beauty and meaning in each concept, reflecting the aspirations of the people of both Vietnam and the EU.
In my role, I hope that both sides will promote human exchanges to realize the goal of Independence - Freedom - Happiness, especially academic and educational exchanges, visits at all levels in the coming time. I am also very happy to work and live in the capital Hanoi - one of the cities with impressive growth rates, but still retains its own charm and antiquity.
Chaz Hindsley, Audit Director, American: Vietnamese people have put aside hatred, put the past behind, and look to the future for peace and prosperity.
As an American, I had only known about Vietnam through the lens of one-sided history, mainly the war we used to call the 'Vietnam War.' But when I came to live and work here, I discovered something much deeper about this country. Vietnam's history is not just about the war with America, but also about the resilience and indomitability of the country in the face of countless invaders over thousands of years. The hardships that the people here overcame to maintain their independence are truly a great inspiration to me.
What surprised me even more was that after all the challenges, the Vietnamese people still opened their hearts and welcomed us - foreigners who were once enemies. I felt this not only from my wife's family, but also from all the people I met. They were always willing to help, share their culture, and make me feel like I truly belonged here. The Vietnamese people have put aside hatred, put the past behind them, and look forward to the future for the peace and prosperity of the country.
I also learned a lot from the family values that Vietnamese people always uphold, especially in ancestor worship - a tradition that I have never seen in my homeland. It is not only a respect but also a way to connect generations together, something that I really appreciate.
When I compare Vietnam’s National Day to America’s Independence Day, I notice a striking similarity: both are occasions for people to come together to celebrate and express their patriotism. It is a time when all of us, regardless of our country, come together to honor the values that make each nation strong.
And if anyone asks me for advice when coming to Vietnam this time, I only have one thing to say: Open your heart, put down your phone, and really immerse yourself in life here. You will see that there are many wonderful things waiting for you, valuable lessons that you can remember to develop yourself.
Kate Robinson, American, editor at Viet Nam News: Vietnamese people are proud of their bravery and military skills
I was from the United States, so I understood a big part of Vietnamese history—the American War, or what we called the Vietnam War. However, I knew very little about Vietnamese history other than the role of the United States in it. I understood why the U.S. government felt it was necessary to go to war, and that many Americans opposed the war, even some of the terrible things that American soldiers did in this country and why they lost—but at that time, I didn’t pay much attention to the Vietnamese perspective.
Since arriving here, I have learned so much about this wonderful land and its rich history, including legendary kings and warriors like Ly Thai To, the Trung sisters, Lady Trieu, the Hung Kings, the Nguyen Dynasty, the constant struggle against foreign invaders, and much more! I have also learned more about how Vietnam defeated both the French and the Americans, and have learned that the Vietnamese people are very proud of their bravery and military prowess. Interestingly, I have learned more about the historic moment when Uncle Ho read the Declaration of Independence in 1945 — it is still a living memory!
Vietnam has a long history. For me, the most prominent cultural aspects of the country are Vietnamese legends and folktales, as well as a rich tradition of writing and storytelling, which helped me understand why the Temple of Literature is in Hanoi! Many of the things I learned came from street names — that's how I learned about Nguyen Du's epic poem, "The Tale of Kieu." A book of Vietnamese folktales taught me about Au Co and Lac Long Quan, who also appear as two major (intersecting) streets in the city!
Also, I have to say I was really impressed with the quality of the visual arts here, including traditional paintings, photography and street art. There are some great graffiti murals in Hanoi!
Tourists should take this opportunity to see the celebrations in a different place, perhaps spend some time learning more about Vietnam’s history and culture, or simply relax and have fun. And don’t be upset if the shops or restaurants are closed — everyone deserves a day off!
Sunny Ghaiee , Deputy General Manager - Hanoi Daewoo Hotel : I admire more the strength and will of the Vietnamese people.
My journey of more than 8 years of living and working in Vietnam has given me a deeper insight into the history and national spirit of your country. Every time it is India’s Independence Day or Vietnam’s Independence Day, my colleagues and I have intimate conversations about the struggle for independence and the stories of the great sacrifices of previous generations.
Whether for Vietnamese or Indians, National Day is always a very special occasion for everyone to look back at the past, be proud of what has been achieved and continue to move towards a brighter future.
In 2016, when I first set foot in Hanoi, I was captivated by the richness of Vietnamese culture and history. One of the highlights was the Vietnamese people’s indomitable spirit of fighting for independence and freedom. When learning about Vietnamese history, I noticed similarities with Mahatma Gandhi’s struggle in India. Both peoples shared a strong desire for freedom, and persevered in the struggle with courage, not yielding to difficulties. This made me admire even more the strength and will of the Vietnamese people.
However, each country has its own unique way of celebrating its national day. In India, Independence Day is usually celebrated with large parades, especially at the Red Fort in Delhi, where the Prime Minister addresses the people. Meanwhile, in Vietnam, I noticed that people focus on honoring traditional values and deep gratitude to national heroes, creating a very special and meaningful atmosphere.
Besides, respecting and preserving family values is also a very valuable culture. These traditions are not only the heritage of the nation but also the foundation for the country to develop sustainably in the future.
I had the opportunity to visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum. This was a very meaningful experience, helping me to feel more deeply the affection and respect that the Vietnamese people have for the great leader of the nation. In addition, I also really enjoy the peace of the capital Hanoi every National Day. The peaceful and solemn atmosphere of the city on these days really left me with unforgettable impressions of the Vietnamese people's love for their homeland.
If you have the opportunity to come to Vietnam during National Day, you must definitely attend the Flag Raising Ceremony at Ba Dinh Square at 6:00 am, visit Uncle Ho's Mausoleum to pay your respects to the great leader of the Vietnamese people.
You can also schedule a visit to museums and historical sites to learn about Vietnam's struggle for independence.
Also, take time to enjoy traditional dishes such as Pho Bo, Banh Cuon, Cha Ca...
French pianist and director François Bibonne: Vietnam has shown a great peace mindset and smart strategies in economic policy
Vietnam's historical anniversaries, especially National Day, always bring me special emotions. During the celebrations, many art programs are held, combining art works and political ceremonies, expressing national pride, welcoming anyone to participate regardless of where they come from or what nationality they have.
As a French-Vietnamese living in Hanoi, I feel integrated and grateful because I always feel the warmth and pride on National Day. I find the National Anthem magical, especially when played with a choir and orchestra like the Vietnam National Symphony Orchestra.
I never miss the opportunity to watch concerts and political art programs broadcast on television on this occasion. National Day is a great celebration for any country, regardless of its political system.
While new tensions are rising in Europe and the Middle East, Vietnam has demonstrated a great peace mindset and smart strategies in its economic policy. On this occasion, the people of the whole country unite, look back to the past, remember the national heroes and also instill confidence in the generations for a sustainable future because a country needs stability to develop.
I directed the documentary “Once upon a bridge in Vietnam”, which has been a hit with both domestic and international media. Last July, the film was screened at the Ruthin International Arts Festival (RIAF) 2024, impressing British and international audiences.
Since I was a child, I lived with my Vietnamese grandmother, who loved music and always encouraged me to play the guitar. After she passed away, I suddenly realized that I needed to know more about her roots, Vietnam, through music. That's how the idea for the film was born.
Films are the gateway that helps me approach and understand more about the music and unique indigenous culture of Vietnam. At the same time, I also want to bring viewers new and interesting perspectives about Vietnam.
The film uses the image of the bridge repeatedly as a metaphor to represent connections, such as the connection between France and Vietnam, between Vietnamese music and Western music, between the past and the future...
Mr. Micheal Schumacher, Managing Director, Oakwood Residence Hanoi: The journey of Vietnamese people to rise
I had known about the Vietnamese people's struggle for independence through historical stories and films, but it was only when I started living and working at Oakwood Residence Hanoi that I truly felt the hardships and difficulties that the people had gone through to gain freedom.
After visiting Ba Dinh Square and President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, listening to the historical achievements, I have a deeper understanding of the sacrifices and indomitable spirit of each Vietnamese citizen during the difficult war. For me, National Day is not only a sacred occasion to honor and pay tribute to the past but also a moment for each individual living and working in Vietnam to appreciate the values that the Vietnamese people have steadfastly preserved.
Since arriving in Vietnam, I have been completely captivated by the richness of its culture and history. From the vibrant traditional festivals, highlighted by traditional family values, to the delicious specialties such as pho and banh mi, everything has left a deep impression.
Having the opportunity to explore local markets and witness traditional handicraft villages, I have a deeper appreciation for the Vietnamese people’s tireless efforts in preserving their cultural heritage. The blend of diverse cultures and the glorious historical imprints of Vietnam has created a vivid and captivating picture, turning every experience into a continuous adventure for me and all foreign citizens living and working here.
This is the first time I have experienced the solemn atmosphere of the National Day holiday. I am looking forward to immersing myself in the solemn atmosphere of the celebration activities to be able to feel more deeply the precious values that the Vietnamese people have preserved and promoted over the years.
I believe that to truly experience the National Day, the best way is to visit important historical sites such as Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Ba Dinh Square, and House No. 48 Hang Ngang - where President Ho Chi Minh wrote the Declaration of Independence. Each destination will give you an insight into the historical context and significance of the holiday.
In addition, participating in the celebration activities, interacting with local people to listen to each person's personal stories about this important occasion, and enjoying traditional dishes that may appear during the festivals will also be valuable experiences.
Source: https://kinhtedothi.vn/van-hoa-va-lich-su-viet-nam-qua-goc-nhin-quoc-te.html
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