G4 Ambassadors deliver inclusive Tet message

Minh Nguyen

The diplomats highlight solidarity in the message on the Vietnamese traditional holiday – Tet 2023

-Jan 20, 2023 / 05:02 AM

Ambassadors of G4 (Canada, Norway, New Zealand, and Switzerland) have called for inclusion in a Tet message that recognizes and values all people as equal partners.

Ambassador of New Zealand to Vietnam Tredene Dobson said an inclusive society is one that recognizes and values all people as equal partners, including people with disabilities (PwD).

As PwD face so many barriers, for example in attending concerts or sports events, taking the bus to work, or participating in their children’s school events, so, for this new year, “let’s all come together and think what we can do to remove some of those barriers,” Dobson said. She noted that “all people regardless of ability can participate fully and equally in our community.”

Canadian Ambassador to Vietnam Shawn Steil: Tet is an opportunity for all of us to gather with family, reconnect with one another, and take a break from work or for younger ones from school. But not everyone has the opportunity to study in a welcoming environment.

“This Tet, I want to support those who are working for more inclusive education in Vietnam to ensure that education is inclusive and free from barriers and that everyone has the opportunity to fulfill their full potential,” Steil emphasized.

Norwegian Ambassador to Vietnam Hilde Solbakken expressed delight to celebrate her first Tet in Vietnam where she really gets to experience the spirit of Tet.

She said everyone has a right to decent work as it’s the key to poverty eradication and to inclusion. “I wish that the Year of Cat will bring in opportunities for everyone to take part in the workforce. That way we can prosper together as an inclusive society.”

Nicole Wyrsch, Chargé d'Affaires of Switzerland to Vietnam highlighted the role of solidarity. She said “solidarity makes society richer and stronger.”