Jointly organised by the Vietnamese Embassy in Venezuela and Santa Maria University, the festival was part of Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to implement its Cultural Diplomacy Strategy to 2030, aiming to promote the country’s image, people, and heritage to the international community, especially to Venezuela’s younger generation.

In her opening remarks, Professor Dr. Antonina D’Amico, USM vice president for academic affairs, emphasised that the “Vietnam - Land and People” space not only enriched the festival but also opened a gateway for Venezuelan students to learn about a resilient Vietnam that has risen from its past into a dynamic nation looking toward a prosperous future.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Venezuela Vu Trung My delivered a keynote speech introducing the country’s proud history of national construction and defence, its rich cultural heritage, and the people’s patriotism, kindness, resilience, and creativity. He stressed that under the leadership of the Communist Party of Vietnam, the country is moving steadily into a new era of comprehensive and sustainable development, aiming for a prosperous, equitable, and happy socialist society.

A highlight of the cultural space was the creative and enthusiastic engagement of Venezuelan students. They vividly recreated iconic Vietnamese symbols such as the bamboo tree, Áo Dài (traditional dress), conical hats, floating markets, water puppetry, and the Temple of Literature, offering visitors an immersive glimpse into Vietnam through the eyes of young people who have never visited the country.

“This is not just a cultural exhibition, it’s a space where hearts, memories, and aspirations are connected. These students have told Vietnam’s story through sincerity and creativity,” said Ambassador My.

Sharing her feelings, Valentina Gonzales, a USM student, said for many Venezuelans, especially the youth, Vietnam and President Ho Chi Minh are powerful symbols of freedom, peace, resilience, and national identity. She expressed her hope she would visit Vietnam one day to better experience its culture and spirit firsthand.

Visitors to the festival also enjoyed Vietnamese cuisine, including spring rolls, three-color dessert, bánh mì (baguette), and iced coffee. Many students enthusiastically donned Áo Dài and conical hats to take photos, helping spread Vietnamese culture across social media platforms.

In a sidelines event, the Vietnamese Embassy organised information exchanges on Vietnam’s foreign policy, its relations with Venezuela, and its growing role in global affairs, as well as opportunities for educational cooperation and student exchanges between the two countries.

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