HÀ NỘI — Muay Thai (Thai boxing), traditional dances, beautiful destinations and Thai street food will all feature in the 2018 Thai Festival to be held in Hà Nội on September 15 and 16.

The highlights will include performances by traditional art troupes from Chiang Mai and a Thai cooking demonstration by expert chefs.

“The purpose of this festival is to strengthen Thailand-Việt Nam bilateral relations, especially in the area of culture and tourism at a people-to-people level,” the charge d’affaires at the Thai embassy, Wanthanee Viputwongsakul, said.

“The embassy would like to introduce every aspect of Thailand to our Vietnamese friends through our delectable cuisine, art performances, muay Thai, and our finest products.

"Many Thai dishes which are popular in Việt Nam such as mango sticky rice and pad thai will be presented by Thai chefs. So Vietnamese people will have a chance to enjoy the authentic taste."

The event is set to attract 50 businesses based in the north-eastern region of Thailand, all companies and importers operating in Việt Nam and travel agents. They will present their products and look for chances to find partners.

The proceeds from the event will be donated to charity organisations in Việt Nam.

Last year over VNĐ500 million (US$21,800) was donated to the National Fund for Vietnamese Children and Hà Nội Association for Victims of Agent Orange.

The two-day event will take place from 10am to 7pm at the Lý Thái Tổ Monument area by Hoàn Kiếm Lake and entry is free.

The Thai embassy, Thai private companies and the Thai community in Việt Nam will jointly organise the festival.

Leaders of Ubonratchathani Province are set to attend the event. — VNS