According to the British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City on January 29, the festival serves as an early follow-up event after the two cities signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation in healthcare, education and training, and science and technology in October 2025.

The two-day cultural exchange programme featured performances by artists from both countries, combining Vietnamese traditional works with classic songs by The Beatles, the iconic band closely associated with Liverpool.

The festival also included interactive activities such as the “Liverpool 360° VR Experience,” allowing visitors to explore the city through virtual reality; a “Mini Anfield Stadium Activation” inspired by Liverpool’s Anfield stadium; and the “Twin Cities Digital Gallery,” a digital exhibition on Ho Chi Minh City and Liverpool.

As part of the visit, the Liverpool cultural delegation held working sessions with the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee to explore ways to deepen future cooperation. The British Council also met with Vietnamese cultural partners, including state cultural agencies and independent arts organizations.

Harry Doyle, Liverpool City Council’s cabinet member for physical and mental health and culture, said he was proud to work alongside Ho Chi Minh City in the fields of healthcare, mental wellbeing and culture, and expressed his hope for cooperation that would bring common benefits to both communities.

British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Alexandra Smith said the festival underscored the UK’s long-term partnership with Vietnam, particularly through cultural exchange activities.

Vietnam’s cultural festival heats up Russian capital

The “Vietnam – Colours from the Tropics” Cultural Festival in Moscow, Russia, has wrapped up after drawing 968,000 local residents and visitors, surpassing expectations and surprising organisers with the vibrant interest it sparked in the Russian capital.