LEADERSHIP OF THE FACULTY OF ORIENTAL STUDIES AND REPRESENTATIVES OF THE VAFA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE CONDUCT FIELD SURVEY IN NGAI GIAO AND XUAN SON COMMUNES, PREPARING FOR THE VIET NAM – INDIA FRIENDSHIP EXCHANGE PROGRAM

On October 13, 2026, leaders of the Faculty of Oriental Studies, University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City, along with representatives of the Executive Committee of the Viet Nam – Southeast Asia Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City (VAFA) conducted a field survey (pre-trip) in Ngai Giao Commune and Xuan Son Commune, Ho Chi Minh City, to prepare for the Viet Nam – India cultural and friendship exchange program scheduled to take place from October 31 to November 1, 2026.

The pre-trip activity aimed to explore the cultural landscape, community life, characteristic products, and socio-economic development potential of the two localities; as well as to survey conditions for organizing reception, exchange, and cooperation connection activities with diplomatic delegations and Indian scholars.

With the theme "Ngai Giao – A Rendezvous for Viet Nam – India Friendship," the program is expected to welcome the Ambassador of India to Viet Nam, the Consul General of India in Ho Chi Minh City, and scholars from the Indian Council of World Affairs (ICWA).

This activity follows the International Conference commemorating the 10th anniversary of the establishment of the Viet Nam – India Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2016–2026), scheduled to be held on October 30, 2026, at the University of Social Sciences and Humanities, Viet Nam National University Ho Chi Minh City.

The program aims to bring cultural diplomacy and academic diplomacy activities closer to the local community, creating opportunities for international delegates to directly learn about the cultural identity, economic potential, and development orientations of Ngai Giao and Xuan Son; thereby opening up prospects for cooperation in the fields of education, culture, sustainable agriculture, experiential tourism, and community development.

Through the survey, the Faculty of Oriental Studies and VAFA continue to promote their role as a bridge between higher education institutions, people-to-people foreign affairs organizations, diplomatic agencies, and local authorities, contributing to promoting practical forms of international cooperation aligned with the needs and strengths of each locality.

From Ngai Giao to Xuan Son, the journey of cultural and friendship connection between Viet Nam and India is expected to contribute to promoting the local image, spreading unique cultural values, and expanding opportunities for international cooperation for sustainable development.