Programmes to Celebrate 40 Years of Australia – Vietnam Anniversary

Australian Ambassador Hugh Borrowman launched on February 26 Australia’s programme to celebrate the 40^th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Australia and Vietnam.

 

The programme of cultural and educational events, ranging from dance, music and visual arts to food, science and sport will showcase Australia as a creative and innovative partner and an inclusive multicultural society that values the traditions, cultures and contributions of people from all backgrounds.

 

 The program begins with a performance by Bangarra Dance Theatre, Australia’s leading Indigenous dance theatre group at the Hanoi Opera House on 2 March. The 22 member group, the largest-ever group of Australian artists to visit Vietnam, will also perform in Ho Chi Minh City on 6 March and participate in workshops with Vietnamese dancers and under - privileged youth.

 

Other programme highlights include an interactive science and education exhibition from Australia’s National Science and Technology Centre – Questacon – showcasing Australia’s advanced and creative science education; performances by award winning jazz trio Elixir; the Indigenous visual arts exhibition, Message Stick: Indigenous Identity in Urban Australia and a week-long cooking competition for children in Ho Chi Minh City led by an Australian Vietnamese chef. The program is supported by Australia International Cultural Council (AICC), an initiative of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade. Vietnam is AICC’s focus country for 2013.

 

The relationship has come a long way since Australia and the then Democratic Republic of Vietnam announced the establishment of diplomatic relations on 26 February 1973 and now spans a wide range of cooperation, including political exchange, trade, investment, aid, education and defence. In 2009, the leaders of Australia and Vietnam signed the Comprehensive Partnership, paving the way for deeper and more diversified relations. Vietnam now is one of Australia’s most important partners in Asia.