Vietnamese expatriates are stepping up their efforts to contribute to their homeland through various initiatives as part of the 2024 plans, emphasizing both cultural pride and community engagement. The recent assembly of overseas Vietnamese at the fourth global conference, held from August 21 to 24, 2024, in Hanoi, has exemplified this trend.
The conference, themed "Overseas Vietnamese Join Hands to Realize the Aspiration for National Development," brought together over 400 delegates from more than 40 countries and territories. Organized by the central government and various political and social organizations, the event sought to rekindle the sense of national pride and responsibility among expatriates to contribute to Vietnam's growth.
During the four-day event, participants discussed the 20-year implementation of Resolution No. 36-NQ/TW, aimed at addressing the needs and aspirations of the overseas Vietnamese community. Keynote addresses from senior leaders, including General Secretary and President To Lam, reinforced the significance of the diaspora's contributions to the nation's achievements, highlighting, "The results we have achieved primarily stem from the Party's alignment with the people's aspirations, supported by the invaluable contributions of our compatriots abroad...".
More than 70 participants presented practical suggestions on various sectors including semiconductor technology, artificial intelligence, and green economy strategies. This strong representation reflects the commitment of overseas Vietnamese to actively engage with and support their homeland's development.
An important highlight of the conference was the launch of the "Forum of Vietnamese Intellectuals and Experts Abroad" for the first time. This platform aimed to cultivate collaboration among Vietnamese professionals worldwide and facilitate sector-specific discussions, especially around high technology.
Language promotion remained at the forefront with the implementation of the initiative "Vietnamese Language Day among Overseas Vietnamese" for the period of 2023-2030. This project aims to strengthen Vietnamese language and culture among diaspora communities and has seen participation from various social organizations.
One notable success of this initiative includes the "Finding Vietnamese Language Ambassadors" contest, which has recognized ten ambassadors representing diverse backgrounds, some even being foreigners. Such recognition not only promotes the language but also enhances cultural integration.
Alongside cultural initiatives, efforts to boost economic ties were also on display. The remittances sent back to Vietnam have significantly grown, reaching approximately $14 billion in 2023, with projections of $14.5 billion for 2024. This highlights the diaspora's role as a pivotal economic force, significantly exceeding the foreign direct investment (FDI) flowing to the country.
Kiều bào, or overseas Vietnamese, have also shown solidarity when it matters most. Ahead of the 2024 trip of overseas Vietnamese, they rallied to support the "Whole Country for Truong Sa" program, contributing nearly 1.6 billion VND to assist troops and residents on the islands. Such initiatives underline the deep-rooted connection and responsibility felt by the community toward their home territories.
Meanwhile, on another cultural front, the emergence of the first Vietnamese restaurant, Fratelli Vietnam, opened by brothers Kien and Hai, is making its mark on Bologna, Italy. This venture not only introduces traditional Vietnamese cuisine to the Italian market but also symbolizes the resilience and adaptability of Vietnamese immigrants.
Kien, who put his engineering career on hold to fulfill his culinary dreams, emphasized the unique attributes of Vietnamese cuisine. He noted how the fresh, vegetable-rich dishes resonate with both local and international audiences. The restaurant's growing popularity showcases how food can become a delightful conduit for cultural exchange and representation.
The restaurant successfully integrated typical Vietnamese dishes, such as "Bun Bo Nam Bo" and "Bun Cha," gaining recognition even among locals who previously had little exposure to Vietnamese gastronomy. With around 120 customers on peak days, the restaurant has become part of the local food scene, fostering curiosity and appreciation for Vietnamese culture.
Kien's story reflects the aspirations shared by many Vietnamese abroad— to create and innovate within their host countries, fostering mutual respect and cultural dialogue. Both the community initiatives and personal ventures like Fratelli Vietnam highlight the collective efforts and individual contributions poised to enrich both Vietnamese society and the broader multicultural fabric of the places where they reside.
Overall, the theme of unity and progress prevalent among Vietnamese expatriates positions them as significant contributors to cultural diplomacy and economic development. The activities and initiatives planned for 2024 not only signify recognition of their efforts but also promise to strengthen the ties between Vietnam and its dispersed population.