Lao Cai province is promoting international cooperation

The International Friendship Exchange - Spring 2023 was held on March 27 in Lao Cai city. The event welcomed the attendance of 14 embassies of different countries, 34 diplomatic representatives of embassies in the Diplomatic Corps; 24 representatives of international organizations/foreign non-governmental organizations; member organizations of the Union of Friendship at the central and local levels.

The International Friendship Exchange is an annual activity that provides an opportunity for international friends including embassies, non-governmental organizations and international organizations to visit Vietnamese historical - cultural sites and scenic spots. They can also learn more about Vietnam as well as its people and culture through knowledge exchange with local authorities and citizens. Additionally, the event opens up opportunities for collaboration with Vietnamese provinces and cities.

According to Ambassador Nguyen Phuong Nga, the Vietnam Union of Friendship Organizations has excelled in its role as a focal point in Vietnam's international relationships as well as the mobilization of foreign non-governmental aid. Furthermore, the Union has maintained support for nearly 400 foreign NGOs operating with humanitarian and development programs/projects in Vietnam. The foreign aid budget disbursed in recent years ranged from USD 220 to 280 million per year.

There are currently 34 organizations in Lao Cai province supporting local partners with various programs/projects in different fields such as health, education, livelihoods, and social affairs

At the International Friendship Exchange - Spring 2023 event, several foreign NGOs have pledged to expand, extend and support new projects in Lao Cai province with a total aid commitment value of USD 2,063,764.

Participating foreign NGOs include: Adoptionscentrum from Sweden, Aide et Action and Enfance Partienariat Vietnam (EPVN) from France, Hagar International from Switzerland, Habitat for Humanity International (HFHI) from the US, and Netherlands Development Organization from the Netherlands.

Two foreign NGOs (EPVN and Espoir Pour un Enfant from France) awarded scholarships to disadvantaged students in Lao Cai province with the total grant money reaching over USD 3,000.

Within the framework of the International Friendship Exchange Program - Spring 2023, the event's participants visited the Indochina - Fansipan mountain peak on March 26.