Hang Dau Water Tower, a French colonial structure in Hanoi’s Quan Thanh Street, is being illuminated in orange for the third consecutive year from April 6-27, to mark the festive days for both Vietnam and the Netherlands this month.

The lighting project is expected to rejuvenate the Hang Dau Water Tower and serve as a symbolic expression of Vietnam-the Netherlands’ fine cooperation. (Photo courtesy: Embassy of the Netherlands in Vietnam)

The colourful innovation is co-organised by Hanoi People’s Committee and the Netherlands Embassy and sponsored by the Dutch company Philips Lighting, serving as proof of friendship and close cooperation, especially in the field of water management, between the two nations.

It also aims to celebrate important anniversaries of both countries in April this year, such as the Hung Kings’ Death Anniversary (the 10th day of the 3rd lunar month, falling on April 6) and the Netherlands King's Day (April 27).

Vietnam and the Netherlands have a history of living with water and have been working on sustainable water solutions for the future. This combination of new technology and history comes together at Hang Dau Water Tower, one of Hanoi’s historic landmarks dating from 1894.

Despite no longer providing Hanoians with fresh water, its usefulness has not been forgotten and the lighting project brings in a fresh and innovative perspective to the landmark, while reminding locals of its beauty and original purpose.

With an eye on the future, the use of state-of-the-art and energy-efficient lighting technologies from Philips Lighting is expected to bring the tower back to life. Philips is also working on the smart lighting of another Hanoi landmark – the Nhat Tan Bridge. The project is to be completed by Vietnam’s Reunification Day (April 30).

Entitled, “Vietnam-Holland: Partners in Water”, the project, which was initiated in 2015, reflects the strong bilateral partnership on climate change and water management between the two sides.

Currently, the Netherlands actively supports Vietnam in the implementation of the Mekong Delta Plan, which provides a long-term vision for the sustainable development of the crucial region.

This month, Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung is set to visit the Netherlands to discuss the implementation of the Strategic Partnership Agreement on Water Management and Climate Change between the two countries.

Nhan Dan