The event, held at the Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism, saw a gathering of diplomats, cultural figures, and citizens from across the globe, showcasing the rich cultural traditions of Azerbaijan and fostering diplomatic ties.
The celebration was graced by the presence of representatives from the state and government of Vietnam, ambassadors from Australia, Canada, Ukraine, Panama, Cambodia, and Palestine, along with members of the Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Association, Vietnamese graduates who studied in Azerbaijan, media representatives and Azerbaijanis living in Vietnam.
Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Vietnam Shovgi Mehdizada highlighted Novruz's deep-rooted significance in Azerbaijani culture and its similarities to Vietnam's Tet. The ambassador also commemorated the 65th anniversary of President Ho Chi Minh’s pivotal visit to Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan, underlining the enduring friendship between the nations.
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Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Vietnam Shovgi Mehdizada |
Ambassador of Kazakhstan to Vietnam Kanat Tumysh, Rector of Hanoi College of Commerce and Tourism Trinh Thi Thu Ha and Honorary Chairman of the Vietnam-Azerbaijan Friendship Association Nghiem Vu Khai, in their turn, expressed their holiday greetings, emphasising the role of such cultural exchanges in strengthening the bonds of friendship and cooperation between nations.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of Azerbaijani cuisine by chef David Israfilov, a member of the World Barbecue Association. Guests could savour traditional dishes like pilaf, dolma, and kebabs, accompanied by Novruz sweets and the symbolic samani, offering a taste of Azerbaijani heritage and hospitality.
Later, the event continued with a cultural program. Azerbaijani and Vietnamese songs were played by Sevinch Orujova Fagradinova, an Azerbaijani who lives in Vietnam, and Vietnamese graduates and college students. The Novruz bonfire was lit, and guests danced to cheerful music.
“For Vietnamese people, Tet, or Lunar New Year, is the most important festival of the year. They often prepare a large feast together with other offerings, such as fruit, flowers, and sweets, to worship their ancestors and pray for health, happiness, and good fortune in the coming year. Similarly, one of the main activities of the “Novruz Festival” is the “Novruz Fire” ceremony, with the tradition of jumping over the fire to get rid of the negative energy.” Sevinch Orujova Fagradinova said.
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The “Novruz Fire” ceremony is the tradition of jumping over the fire to eliminate negative energy. |
This Novruz celebration in Hanoi not only honoured the rich traditions of Azerbaijan but also marked a significant step in promoting cultural diplomacy and building lasting friendships among Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Vietnam.
