Brazilian city aspires to boost sports and tourism co-operation with Vietnam

In a recent working session held alongside Vietnamese Ambassador to Brazil Bui Van Nghi in Brasilia, Deputy Mayor Caldiera said he is ready to connect major football clubs in Rio de Janeiro to promote linkages and sporting exchanges with Vietnam, as well as sending coaches and football teams to Vietnam to exchange and receive Vietnamese football teams to Brazil for the purpose of training and organizing tournaments and friendly matches.

Ambassador Nghi highly appreciated the willingness of Rio de Janeiro to work alongside Vietnam to strengthen relations between the two countries, especially during the anniversary of diplomatic relations this year.

Deputy Mayor Caldeira also emphasized the need for both countries, with a focus on Rio de Janeiro, to augment ties in sports, tourism, culture, and education.

Rio de Janeiro boasts a total of 35 professional football clubs, of which Vasco da Gama, Flamengo, Botafogo, and Fluminense are the most famous.

At the meeting, the Brazilian side proposed sending Vietnamese players to participate in a reality TV show about football to be recorded within 45 days at a training centre in Rio de Janeiro.

Two Vietnamese players participating in the programme will then have the opportunity to sign a contract for a team in the city.

He also proposed forms of souvenirs/memorials regarding President Ho Chi Minh's journey for national salvation at the Arcos da Lapa Square area, such as naming the street after Vietnam, and painting a mural about Uncle Ho's journey in this city.

The two sides also expressed their desire to co-operate with media agencies of the two countries to play an important role as a bridge in people-to-people exchanges whilst enhancing mutual understanding between both nations.

Ambassador Nghi suggested co-operation in locating a Vietnamese television agency in Brazil.