The Embassy of Vietnam in Manila opened a cultural exhibition on March 25 to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the Philippines.
Ambassador Lai Thai Binh addresses the audience at the unveiling of the photo exhibit.
Titled ‘Colors of Vietnam’, the exhibit was held at the embassy and forms part of a broader series of activities scheduled throughout 2026 to commemorate five decades of bilateral ties.
The exhibition features photographs capturing Vietnam’s landscapes, daily life, and communities. The works were contributed by members of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Photography, including Vu Duy Bội, Nguyễn Tiến Quảng, Trần Cao Báo Long, Ngô Thị Hồng Loan, Hoàng Thế Nhiệm, Nguyễn Văn Tâm, Nguyễn Thanh Tùng, and Vũ Bích Hà.
Malaysian Ambassador Abdul Malik Melvin Castelino with US Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Y. Robert Ewing and Pakistan Ambassador Dr. Asima Rabbani
In his remarks, Vietnamese Ambassador Lai Thai Binh emphasized the role of cultural exchange in strengthening relations between the two countries.
Ambassador Lai Thai Binh and spouse, Mme. Nguyen Thi Thu Thuy joins ambassadors, DFA officials, and members of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Photography for a group photo
“Culture and people-to-people are powerful tools to deepen mutual understanding, strengthen friendship, and open new doors for cooperation between governments, businesses, and communities,” he said.
Former Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Delia Domingo Albert with Irish Ambassador Emma Hickey
He added that Vietnam aims to expand engagement with the Philippines through high-level visits, student exchanges, artistic collaborations, and business delegations.
Ambassador Lai Thai Binh joins former Philippine Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert, DFA
officials and members of the Ho Chi Minh City Association of Photography
The opening was attended by former Foreign Affairs Secretary Delia Domingo Albert, DFA spokesperson Angelica C. Escalona, and Assistant Secretary for Asian and Pacific Affairs Marshall Louis Alferez, along with members of the diplomatic corps, business community, media, and students.
At The Floating Market – Can Tho City Vietnam by Hoàng Thế Nhiệm
The exhibit reflects a growing emphasis on cultural diplomacy within Vietnam–Philippines relations, complementing cooperation in trade, tourism, and regional engagement.
Smiles – HaGiang City Vietnam by Trần Cao Báo
As both countries mark 50 years of diplomatic ties, initiatives such as ‘Colors of Vietnam’ highlight how cultural exchange continues to support broader efforts to strengthen bilateral relations.
