Speaking at the signing ceremony, Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung emphasized that the establishment of the Union of Presidents of Vietnamese Associations in Italy, although only a modest first step, is of great significance to the Vietnamese community in Italy, which currently has about 5,000-6,000 people and is scattered in many cities, especially in the North. For many years, the Vietnamese community in Italy has always wished to have a common association. The establishment of the Union of Presidents of Vietnamese Associations in Italy - a voluntary, consensual and non-binding organization - not only meets the wishes of the Vietnamese community in Italy but also multiplies the strength of solidarity in joining hands to promote the Vietnam - Italy friendship.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung. Photo: VNA in Italy

Also at the signing ceremony, the Presidents of the Associations participating in the Alliance of Presidents of Vietnamese Associations in Italy agreed to coordinate activities for the common goal of promoting friendship, understanding and cooperation between the people of the two countries; promoting the image of the country and people of Vietnam in Italy; and at the same time contributing to the development of bilateral relations and strengthening the Vietnam - Italy strategic partnership.

Ms. Le Thi Bich Huong, President of the Italy - Vietnam Cultural Bridge Association, has been selected as the first Secretary General of the Alliance and will represent the Alliance in correspondence, information exchange, participation in invited activities and speaking on agreed contents. The Secretary General is also the person who proposes the Alliance's agenda, conducts Alliance meetings and coordinates activities between member associations.  

The establishment of the Union of Presidents of Vietnamese Associations in Italy took place at a meaningful time, right before the State visit of President Vo Van Thuong and his wife and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation to Italy to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between the two countries.

VNA

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