The event attracted over 400 guests, including Ambassadors, Chargé d'Affaires, and spouses from ASEAN countries and many other countries in the diplomatic corps in Washington D.C.; representatives from the governments of the D.C. area, Maryland, and Virginia; businesses, socio-political organisations, and the American community of ASEAN descent, as well as members of the ASC from 10 ASEAN countries present in Washington.
In her opening remarks, Chairwoman of the ASC 2024 Tran Thi Bich Van, spouse of the Vietnamese Ambassador to the US, stressed that enhancing cultural exchanges plays a crucial role in developing friendships and partnerships, not only within the ASEAN region but also with American friends and countries around the world.
The ASC 2024 Chairwoman expressed her hope that the dances and fashion performances, representing the heart and soul of ASEAN at the event, would bring the ASEAN region closer to American friends and countries globally.
In his speech at the event, Chairman of the ASEAN Committee in Washington D.C. (ACW), Philippine Ambassador Josse Manuel G. Romualdez, highly praised the role of the ASC in promoting and celebrating Southeast Asian culture in the US, which positively complements the political activities of the ASEAN Committee in Washington D.C. to strengthen diplomatic relations between ASEAN and the US and other partners.
He also affirmed that ASEAN's cultural diversity has been and continues to be a source of strength, reinforcing a shared identity and fostering cooperation among countries in the region.
The ASEAN Cultural Day 2024 featured a wide array of cultural activities such as art exhibitions, traditional costume displays, artistic performances, and a culinary feast.
The embassies of the 10 ASEAN countries contributed many special performances, showcasing the spirit of ASEAN culture.
The Vietnamese Embassy's Spouses Association actively participated with many unique contributions, such as showcasing lacquer paintings of Hanoi's Old Quarter, silk paintings of conical hats, displaying traditional attire of the Pa Then ethnic group, and a lotus dance accompanied by traditional music.
Notably, the Vietnamese bamboo pole dance performance created a lively atmosphere, with enthusiastic participation from many ASEAN Ambassadors, their spouses, and other guests.
In addition to the performances, Vietnamese cuisine also left a lasting impression.
ASEAN Culture Day 2024 concluded with deep impressions of a united and dynamic ASEAN featuring a rich and diverse cultural heritage.
