The delegation members present a symbolic gift to the Amsterdam City and its people: a handcrafted artwork by Vụn Art made from recycled silk. Photo courtesy of the Hanoi–Amsterdam High School

HÀ NỘI Nearly 100 alumni of Hanoi–Amsterdam High School embarked on a special journey from Hanoi to Amsterdam in June. The trip, titled “AMS40 – From Heart to Heart,” commemorates the 40th anniversary of the school and the 750th anniversary of the City of Amsterdam.

Representing multiple generations and 16 different countries, the alumni—known as “Amsers” travelled from June 1 to 22. Their route took them from Hà Nội through Paris and Brussels before culminating in Amsterdam, the city that played a pivotal role in their school's history.

The journey is a heartfelt tribute to the “Amsterdam Helpt Hanoi” (Amsterdam Helps Hanoi) movement of 1973–1975. During this post-war period, the people of Amsterdam organised a remarkable solidarity campaign, raising funds to help rebuild the capital city. The support led directly to the founding of Hà Nội–Amsterdam High School in 1985, which stands today as a symbol of friendship and international cooperation.

The "From Heart to Heart" initiative is a journey of remembrance, a celebration of compassion, and a powerful reminder of historical solidarity. It is dedicated to fostering cooperation between Việt Nam and the Netherlands, as well as among Vietnamese communities worldwide.

Coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the Hanoi – Amsterdam Organization (H-A-O), a global network of students and alumni from Hanoi – Amsterdam High School, the initiative also lays the foundation for future educational and cultural collaboration.

Key activities were held in Amsterdam from June 19–21, highlighted by an official meeting and tribute ceremony with the Amsterdam City Council at City Hall. This meeting reaffirmed the enduring bond between the two cities, showcased the younger generation's deep respect for history, and contributed to the strengthening of Việt Nam–Netherlands relations.

During the programme, the delegation met with Vietnamese Ambassador to the Netherlands, Ngô Hướng Nam, and representatives of the Amsterdam City Council. They presented a symbolic gift to the city and its people: a handcrafted artwork by Vụn Art made from recycled silk.

To further the cultural exchange, the delegation also donated a "Vietnamese Bookshelf" to the OBA Public Library in central Amsterdam. This collection of books on Vietnamese history, culture, and children's literature offers the Dutch public a warm and multifaceted perspective on Việt Nam.

A remembrance ceremony was held at Dam Square, a historic site where Dutch citizens gathered to support Việt Nam over 50 years ago.

This nine-day journey through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands was not only a homecoming but also a living testament to the enduring friendship between the two nations and the unifying spirit of the global Vietnamese community. VNS