[Video] Vietnam - UK relations through New Year greetings from diplomats

The New Year video from British Ambassador to Vietnam Iain Frew and British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Alexandra Smith conveys meaningful messages about the Vietnam - UK partnership through the perspective of modern culture and development.

At the beginning of the video , Ambassador Iain Frew appears at Ngoc Son Temple, an iconic landmark of Hanoi, a place steeped in history and spirituality. In an ancient space, surrounded by shady trees, the Ambassador shares:

“We are welcoming the Year of the Snake and I am standing at Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi, which is dedicated to Van Xuong De Quan – the god of imperial examinations – and Hung Dao Dai Vuong – the Tran Dynasty general and royal family member who helped protect Vietnam from invaders in ancient times. Their stories are an inspiration of wisdom, resilience and innovation. These qualities also reflect the partnership between the UK and Vietnam that has, and will continue to grow stronger over the years, adapting to the ever-changing world .”

British Ambassador to Vietnam Iain Frew and Embassy staff visit Ngoc Son Temple. (Photo: British Embassy in Vietnam)

The Ambassador emphasized that from trade, finance,education , health, to sustainable development and security, we have witnessed increasingly strong relations between the two countries.

Sharing more about Ngoc Son Temple, Ambassador Iain Frew said that Ngoc Son Temple is not only a spiritual place but also a reminder of Vietnam's rich cultural heritage.

"I feel honored to be here, witnessing the tradition of going to temples during Tet, reflecting on the past and learning more about Vietnamese culture and history," said the Ambassador.

Meanwhile, British Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City Alexandra Smith appeared at the entrance of Ho Chi Minh City's newly opened metro line and sent New Year greetings.

Calling the metro line a remarkable symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s modern aspirations and development, Consul General Alexandra Smith said: “In East Asian culture, the snake represents prosperity, adaptability and health. The metro line reminds me of a snake winding through the city, connecting people together. Just as the snake brings vitality and strength, the metro line will help Ho Chi Minh City develop and realise its vision of becoming a leading financial centre. This vision is closely linked to the strong partnership between the UK and Vietnam.”

She also affirmed that from sustainable urban development to education and technology, the UK always accompanies and supports Vietnam's journey towards a prosperous future.

Concluding the video, Consul General Alexandra Smith said: "Tet is a time for us to unite and celebrate the bilateral relationship over the past year."

Ambassador Iain Frew followed up with a forward-looking message: "Tet is also a time to look to the future and reaffirm the UK's commitment to continuing to accompany Vietnam in its new era of growth. Together, the UK and Vietnam will build the future."