BY James Kon
Minister of Foreign Affairs II Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Erywan bin Pehin Datu Pekerma Jaya Haji Mohd Yusof and Vietnamese Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son launched the Vietnam-Brunei Darussalam Trade, Culture, Food and Arts Fair at The Mall, Gadong on Wednesday.
In his welcoming remarks, Vietnamese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Tran Van Khoa highlighted that bilateral relations between Vietnam and the Sultanate had developed profoundly and extensively over the past three decades.
“The two sides established a comprehensive partnership in 2019 with hopes to promote further cooperation in various fields, including the most significant pillars of politics, trade and investment, culture and people-to-people exchange,” he said.
The Vietnamese Embassy in Brunei Darussalam – in collaboration with Seri Nova Food Industries and Astera Consultant – is organising the fair at The Mall, Gadong until September 11.
“Prior to today’s opening, a business matching session was held on Wednesday involving over 70 businesses from both Vietnam and Brunei Darussalam. Attendees had the opportunities to learn about one another, explore industries of interest and meet potential business partners who share the same passion. Of the 70 businesses, some will display their products as vendor booths at the trade expo during the week,” he added.
Cultural events by performers from both sides will also be featured, encompassing traditional folk dance and stage plays highlighting the cultural identity of each country.
A group of 10 Vietnam artists will perform traditional dances recognised as a United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Intangible Heritage.
Additionally, photo exhibits from Vietnamese photographers are on display, along with artworks by ARTYSANS exhibition featuring rising local artists.
The fair also brings culinary sessions demonstrated by a Vietnamese chef and a local chef from the Institute of Brunei Technical Education (IBTE) School of Hospitality and Tourism.
Following a ribbon-cutting, both ministers enjoyed an array of performances staged by Vietnamese and local artists.
-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin