Children Love Diplomacy - Summer Camp 2024: Little Diplomats at the Thang Long Imperial Citadel

Representing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at the event were Vu Thi Bich Ngoc, spouse of the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Le Thi Hong Van, Secretary-General of the Vietnam National Commission for UNESCO and Head of the Public Women’s Committee of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; along with representatives from the Party Committee, Trade Union, Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union, leaders of various units across the Ministry, and members of the women’s committees of different departments. From the Thang Long-Hanoi Heritage Conservation Center, Nguyen Thanh Quang, Director of the Center, attended the program together with more than 400 children of officials from departments, divisions, and institutes of the Ministry.

Following an introductory session and photo-taking with Ministry leaders, the children embarked on a journey to explore the historical and cultural values of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel. The “little diplomats” were immersed in an engaging historical experience through a documentary film highlighting key milestones in the formation and development of the Thang Long capital. The program continued with a solemn flag-raising ceremony and an incense-offering ritual in tribute to past emperors and revered ancestors at the Kinh Thien Palace site-once the venue where monarchs of successive feudal dynasties held court sessions and deliberated on state affairs.

Within the framework of the program, the “little diplomats” explored and learned about notable historical sites within the Thang Long Imperial Citadel, including Doan Mon Gate, Dan Tri Courtyard, the Lantern Street, the exhibition “Hanoi Citadel - A Mark of History”, the museum displaying archaeological artifacts, the Central Military Commission bunker, and Revolutionary House D67-an important military cultural site from the Ho Chi Minh era. At the conclusion of the tour, the children enjoyed a magic show and participated in interactive activities at the Hau Lau area, under the theme “I Love the Heritage of the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.” 

The 2024 “Children Love Diplomacy” Summer Camp (Con yeu nganh ngoai giao) concluded successfully, reflecting the deep care and attention of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ leadership for the children of Ministry staff. This year’s program provided a meaningful and engaging playground for young participants, offering hands-on experiences that allowed them to better understand, appreciate, and cherish the contributions of the diplomatic sector to the country’s overall development.