The exchange, held on February 19 by the Embassy of Vietnam in the US, in collaboration with the Diplomatic Spouses Association, attracted more than 20 spouses of ambassadors in the US along with many other foreign friends. 

In her opening remarks, Tran Thi Bich Van, spouse of the Vietnamese Ambassador to the US, noted that the cultural exchange aimed to showcase Vietnam’s traditional costumes and unique cuisine, winning over the hearts of many international friends so far.

Participants were introduced to Vietnam’s culture, history, traditional clothing from three regions, local cuisine, and Lunar New Year customs. Ambassadors' spouses and local guests had the chance to try on traditional Vietnamese outfits such as the Áo Dài (traditional long dress), “Áo tứ thân” (four-panel traditional dress), and “Mỏ Quạ” scarf (scarf is tired in a triangle on the forehead).

They participated in a fashion showcase at Vietnam House, and were given a hands-on experience making Vietnamese nem cuốn (spring rolls), a popular local dish.

Hiba Zaini, spouse of Iraqi Ambassador to the US, shared that she was eager to visit Vietnam and learn more about its people and culture.

"Before attending this event and tasting today’s dishes, I had a friend who lived in Vietnam and told me a lot about the country. After today’s cultural showcase, I’m seriously considering a trip to Vietnam. The food is amazing and healthy, and the country is beautiful. Vietnam has so much that people have yet to discover, so I think visiting and learning more about Vietnam would be a great opportunity in the future."

Founded in 1961, CED promotes cultural exchange between diplomatic corps members and local communities in the US The organization has previously been sponsored by spouses of US government leaders and is currently supported by the Mayor of Washington, DC.

Festival connects Vietnamese and US culture

The first Vietnam-US Cultural Festival took place at the Vietnam Centre for Exhibition of Cultural and Arts in Hanoi on June 25.