VietNamNet Bridge – Haiti's art, culture, lifestyle and tourism will be introduced for the first time in Viet Nam during the Cultural Week of Haiti that will run from January 12-15.

Culinary treats: Visitors will have a chance to try griot (fried pork), a traditional Haitian dish. — Photos courtesy of the Republic of Haiti Embassy

Themed Haiti, Live the Experience, the event will celebrate the courage and pride of the Haitian people, the beauty of Haitian culture and commemorate the 211th anniversary of the country's independence.

Organised by the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti and Viettel Telecom Group, the cultural week aims to spread the rich cultural heritage, art and cuisine of Haiti.

The event will kick off next Monday with an exhibition where visitors can enjoy Haitian arts and crafts.

Ambassador Jean Lesly Benoit will officially launch the event at 9am.

On display will include noted artists' paintings and sculptures; handmade jewellery and scarves made by Haitian women; and traditional costumes dating from different periods in Haitian history.

During the opening ceremony, visitors will be treated to Haitian food, dancing and music. Haiti's traditional food includes griot (fried pork), acra (malanga and salted fish), beef patties and fried plantains.

"The culture of Haiti stands out for its diversity, and at the same time, it is a reflection of the country's inner beauty," said Benoit.

"Indeed, the country's culture has changed through the ages, while conserving ancestral values. It has a magical power to electrify and provoke a cultural shock to trigger those thrills that delight art lovers."

"This is a chance for us to introduce Vietnamese people the beauty of Haitian nature, people, culture and development," he said.

He noted that Viet Nam and Haiti have a great friendship and diplomatic relationship, but this will be the first time Vietnamese people will be given a true insight into his country.

He expected this first cultural event will kick-start other activities and exchanges between the two countries and open opportunities for Vietnamese and Haitian partners to co-operate.

National dress: Traditional Haitian costumes will be displayed at the exhibition.

"In the near future, there will be co-operation in culture and tourism between the two countries' enterprises, and various other events will be organised," he said.

On the occasion, famous guitarist Amos Coulanges, maestro Tido Dejean, and the group Troubadour Ti-Coca&Wanga Neges will travel to Viet Nam to perform at the closing show for the cultural week.

The exhibition will be held at the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti, 44/4 Van Bao Street, Ha Noi, and entry is free.

VNS