A vibrant display of Cambodian culture illuminated Vĩnh Long province on June 13th, 2025, as part of the Cambodian Cultural Week in Vietnam. The event, a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between Vietnam and Cambodia, showcased traditional arts and performances, fostering deeper understanding and strengthening ties between the two nations. The week-long celebration, a collaborative effort between Vietnam’s Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Cambodia’s Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts, and the Vĩnh Long People’s Committee, underscored the enduring bond of friendship between the two neighboring countries.
High-Level Attendance Marks Significance of the Event
The event at Vĩnh Long’s Provincial Conference Center drew prominent figures from both nations. Representing Cambodia was Her Excellency Lundi Sannara, Secretary of State of the Ministry of Culture and Fine Arts. The Vietnamese delegation included Mr. Nguyễn Văn Liệt, Vice Chairman of the Vĩnh Long People’s Committee; Ms. Trần Hải Vân, Deputy Director of the International Cooperation Department, Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; Mr. Phạm Minh Hoàng, Acting Director of the Vĩnh Long Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism; and representatives from various Vĩnh Long departments and agencies. The high-level attendance underscored the importance both governments placed on the cultural exchange.
Vĩnh Long Vice Chairman Emphasizes Enduring Friendship
In his welcoming address, Vice Chairman Nguyễn Văn Liệt highlighted the significance of the cultural exchange program. He described the event as a “vibrant harmony” reflecting the deep friendship between Vietnam and Cambodia. He emphasized that the captivating performances by the Cambodian artists were not merely a gift of cultural enrichment to the people of Vĩnh Long but a vital contribution to strengthening the bonds of friendship between the two nations.
Mr. Liệt also reviewed the history of cooperation between Vĩnh Long province and Cambodia, particularly with Kampong Speu province, Vĩnh Long’s sister province. He noted the consistent growth in relations through collaborations in education, cultural exchange, and youth initiatives. Building on this strong foundation of neighborly friendship, Mr. Liệt reaffirmed Vĩnh Long’s commitment to serving as a welcoming and safe destination for Cambodian cultural exchanges. He emphasized the province’s dedication to promoting the shared cultural values of both countries to the younger generations, further solidifying the Vietnam-Cambodia relationship.
A Captivating Display of Cambodian Arts and Culture
The Cambodian artists presented a diverse program of traditional and contemporary performances. Traditional Cambodian dances, music, and songs celebrated the rich cultural heritage of the “Kingdom of Temples,” showcasing the nation’s unique artistic identity. The performances also included a selection of Vietnamese songs, notably “Hào khí Việt Nam” (Vietnamese Spirit) and “Hát mãi khúc quân hành” (Singing the Military March), performed by Cambodian singer Kang Pharath. These songs were enthusiastically received by the Vĩnh Long audience, demonstrating the shared cultural appreciation between the two nations. The program successfully broadened the Vietnamese audience’s understanding of Cambodian culture and the enduring friendship between the two countries.
Enthusiastic Reception Highlights Shared Cultural Values
The Cambodian Cultural Week’s debut in Vĩnh Long was met with immense enthusiasm, particularly among young people and the Khmer community residing in the province. Prolonged applause and cheers after each performance underscored the shared anticipation for future collaborations in nurturing the friendly ties between Vietnam and Cambodia. The event’s widespread impact showcased the power of cultural exchange in strengthening neighborly relations and highlighted the role of arts and culture in forging stronger bonds between the two nations.
Vĩnh Long’s Cultural Contribution: A Reciprocal Exchange
In reciprocal celebration of the Cambodian Cultural Week, Vĩnh Long province presented its own artistic contributions. The performance included a traditional Southern Vietnamese “Đờn ca tài tử” ensemble, featuring the Xàng Xê song “Tấm lòng vàng” (Golden Heart). This showcased Vĩnh Long’s unique cultural identity, highlighting the province’s peaceful, resilient, and hospitable people. The performance also served as a promotion of Southern Vietnamese Đờn ca tài tử music, a UNESCO-recognized intangible cultural heritage. Additionally, the Vĩnh Long Culture and Arts Center presented a Rô-băm dance, a vibrant expression of the enduring friendship between Vietnam and Cambodia.
Showcasing Vĩnh Long’s Tourism and Cultural Heritage
To further enhance the cultural exchange, Vĩnh Long organized several side events showcasing the province’s tourism potential and cultural heritage. These included visits to Coco home eco-tourism site, the Vĩnh Long Mang Thít pottery village—the largest and most renowned red brick and pottery producer in the Mekong Delta— and other significant traditional craft villages. The delegation was also introduced to the remarkable Cocohome Vĩnh Long, a unique structure built from over 4,000 coconut trees aged 90-100 years, a record-breaking testament to the province’s ingenuity and a stunning example of the region’s unique architectural style. This eco-tourism site presented a fascinating glimpse into the tranquil beauty of Vĩnh Long’s riverside landscape.
Meeting with Cambodian Officials and Homage to a National Hero
During their visit, the Cambodian delegation, led by Secretary of State Lundi Sannara, met with Vĩnh Long Vice Chairman Nguyễn Văn Liệt for official discussions. The delegation also paid respects at the memorial site of former Prime Minister Phạm Hùng. The Cambodian delegation, particularly the younger artists, were provided with insights into the life and achievements of Prime Minister Phạm Hùng, recognizing his substantial contributions to the Vietnamese revolution and to the development of Vietnam-Cambodia relations.
Conclusion
The successful conclusion of the Cambodian Cultural Week in Vĩnh Long, following similar events in Bạc Liêu, significantly strengthened the cooperative ties between Vietnam and Cambodia, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of both nations and boosting tourism and economic development, particularly between sister provinces.
