The event is part of a series of activities marking the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and Thailand, contributing to enhanced mutual understanding and closer people-to-people ties.

The competition was designed for Thai students learning Vietnamese, offering an academic and cultural platform to share their passion for the language, as well as for Vietnamese culture and people.

Speaking at the event, Associate Professor Dr. Prapaporn Rojsiriruch, vice president of Srinakharinwirot University, emphasised that the contest not only inspires students to learn Vietnamese but also promotes educational cooperation and cultural exchange between the two countries.

“This is the second time we have co-organised the contest, and it is truly inspiring to witness the enthusiasm of Thai students in learning Vietnamese and exploring Vietnam’s rich traditions,” she said.

Contestants from eight universities across Thailand brought their own stories to the stage. Moving beyond conventional speeches, the event featured vibrant performances ranging from đàn bầu (mono chord) music and shadow puppetry inspired by “Tấm Cám,” to heartfelt presentations on “Phu Quoc fish sauce” and Vietnamese family values.

Addressing the event, Vietnamese Ambassador to Thailand Pham Viet Hung highlighted the richness of cultural expressions presented by the contestants.

“You have brought to the stage a colourful spectrum of cultures. Beyond formal agreements, exchanges like these make bilateral relations more meaningful and sustainable,” he noted.

The grand finale was marked by outstanding performances from young ‘cultural ambassadors.’ Pongpisut Pengsuk, known by his Vietnamese name Tuan Phong from Chulalongkorn University, captivated the audience with a powerful rendition of the song Đất Rừng Phương Nam (literally Southern Land of Vietnam), earning second prize. Two students from Thammasat University won first prize with their story about an internship experience in Ho Chi Minh City.

Another standout, Somsak Sakpibun performed in a traditional Áo dài (Vietnam’s traditional long dress) combined with modern choreography to the song Vũ Trụ Có Anh (You Are My Universe), showcasing the dynamic appeal of the Vietnamese language. For these students, Vietnamese is not just a subject, but a gateway to new opportunities.

“I find that Vietnamese and Thai people are very similar, both kind and warm-hearted. After graduation, I plan to continue my studies in Vietnam, then return to Thailand to teach Vietnamese to younger generations,” Pongpisut Pengsuk shared.

According to Do Thuy Ha, a Vietnamese language lecturer at Chulalongkorn University, students’ curiosity and personal interests, from chess to music, help them naturally overcome language barriers, representing a genuine and sustainable form of people-to-people diplomacy.

Thailand festival brings food, films and culture to Hanoi this weekend

VOV.VN - A Thailand-themed cultural festival featuring food, films and traditional performances will take place in Hanoi this weekend, offering locals and tourists a chance to experience Thai culture.