Union of Presidents of Vietnamese People's Associations in Italy established

On July 20, a signing ceremony of a document on the establishment of the union via videoconferencing took place at the Vietnamese Embassy in Italy.

The event was attended by the Vietnamese Ambassador to Italy Duong Hai Hung, the President of Italy - Vietnam Cultural Bridge Association Le Thi Bich Huong, the President of Italy - Vietnam Mutual Assistance Association Tran Minh Chau, the President of Italy - Vietnam Chamber of Commerce Pham Van Hong, and President of the Milano Club Nguyen Hoang My.

Addressing the event, Hung said the establishment of the union is a modest initial step but significant to about 5,000 - 6,000 Vietnamese people across Italy.

The community long wanted to have a common organisation, and the foundation of this union, a voluntary and non-binding organisation, does not only meet their demand but also helps enhance the community’s solidarity, to contribute to the countries’ friendship, he noted.

The presidents of the member associations agreed to coordinate to help promote the friendship, mutual understanding, and cooperation between the two countries’ people; popularise images of Vietnam in Italy; develop a strategic partnership between Vietnam and Italy.

The union will convene meetings at least once a year to discuss common issues. Its Secretary-General will be selected by the presidents of the member associations and serve for a one-year term on a rotational basis.

Le Thi Bich Huong was chosen as the first Secretary General of the union.

Meanwhile, the union’s establishment and operations do not affect the existence and activities of the member associations. Its membership is also open to other organisations.

The establishment of the union took place on the threshold of a State visit to Italy by Vietnamese President Vo Van Thuong and amid the 50th anniversary of the two countries’ diplomatic relations.