Foreign students vie for top prize in Da Nang Vietnamese-speaking contest

A Vietnamese-language public speaking contest for foreign students was held in Da Nang, central Vietnam, where participants showcased their fluency and understanding of Vietnamese culture. The contest aims to promote the Vietnamese language and foster greater interest in Vietnamese culture abroad. In recent years, the Communist Party of Vietnam has placed significant emphasis on preserving and promoting the Vietnamese language within its strategic vision for mobilizing resources from the Vietnamese community abroad and promoting Vietnamese cultural values globally. Politburo Resolution No. 23-NQ/TW, dated August 2, 2026, reiterates this commitment. Participants shared their perspectives on Vietnam's society, culture, and economic development, as well as their experiences learning the language. Judges evaluated not only linguistic proficiency but also the originality and expressiveness of the presentations. Such events can be seen as part of Vietnam's cultural diplomacy, pursued under its one-party system. The Vietnamese government seeks to enhance its international influence and sustain economic growth through strengthening its soft power. Particularly in its relationship with China, projecting the appeal of its unique culture and language is a crucial element in establishing Vietnam's international standing. Furthermore, cultural exchanges are becoming more active with neighboring countries, as evidenced by events like the Vietnamese-language public speaking contest organized by Udon Thani Rajabhat University in cooperation with the Vietnamese Consulate in Thailand. This can be viewed as a strategy for Vietnam to strengthen its influence within the ASEAN region and deepen economic ties. Participants expressed sentiments such as, "Learning Vietnamese has allowed me to experience Vietnam's rich culture and the warmth of its people." These grassroots exchanges are expected to deepen mutual understanding between Vietnam and other countries, contributing to the building of long-term friendly relations. Source: VietnamPlus English