New Zealand’s Prime Minister visits Vietnam’s first university

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon today visited the Temple of Literature in downtown Hanoi to explore Vietnam’s first university, built in the 11th century, during his four-day visit to the Southeast Asian country starting on February 25.

Luxon was accompanied by Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh as they both enjoyed the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage Quan ho (Love Duet) singing and traditional instrument performance.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon toured the Temple of Literature - Imperial Academy, where the New Zealand guests learned about the history and educational legacy of Vietnam's first university.

Prime Minister Luxon praised Vietnam's rich cultural heritage, strong educational values, and deep-rooted tradition of learning, and hailed the Temple of Literature as a symbol of the nation's intellectual and historical heritage.

Education remains a cornerstone of Vietnam-New Zealand relations, with various training programs, scholarships, and bilateral initiatives. Since 1992, New Zealand has provided scholarships to more than 600 Vietnamese officials.

During Luxon's visit, Prime Minister Chinh thanked his New Zealand counterpart for its long-standing support for education, even when Vietnam was under an embargo.

Also during Luxon's trip to Vietnam, the two countries upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, with cooperation in education as one of the key areas, along with culture, sports, and tourism.

The New Zealand government pledged to increase scholarship opportunities, continue to support English language training in Vietnam and strengthen cooperation between educational institutions in both countries.

New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon accompanied by Vietnam's Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to tour the Temple of Literature - Vietnam's first university on February 27. Photos: Nhat Bac/VGP

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh introduces New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon to the Temple of Literature - one of Vietnam's landmarks.

The Temple of Literature is an imperial academy built in the 11th century.

The guests are introduced to the educational institution of thousands of years.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon beats drums at the Imperial Academy.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh introduces Vietnamese traditional things in welcoming guests.

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon tried a Vietnamese traditional music instrument.

The New Zealand Prime Minister are introduced to Vietnamese calligraphy.

The two prime ministers with the words "Success" and "Prospect".