On Wednesday, the Da Nang People’s Committee Vice Chairman, Mr Dang Viet Dung, played host to a delegation from the Australian Political Exchange Council (APEC), led by the National Assembly Member for Miranda, Ms Eleni Marie Petinos.

Vice Chairman Dung praised the visit by his Australian guests.  He remarked that Da Nang’s remarkable socio-economic achievements over recent years have been partly attributed to the great efforts of the city’s young people, especially those who had previously studied in Australian universities. 

In reply, Ms Petinos thanked the city leader for his warm welcome and expressed her hope that the bilateral friendly relationship with Da Nang would be further strengthened.

Ms Petinos (left) and Vice Chairman Dung

During their meeting on the same day with the Da Nang Youth Union, the visiting Australian politicians spent a lot of time expressing compliments about the city’s rapid economic growth.

The hosts and guests exchanged valuable experiences of organising voluntary programmes which encourage their own young people to continue supporting their communities.

Last year, members of the Da Nang Youth Union visited Vietnamese students studying in Australia.  This was a great opportunity for local young people to learn more about Australia’s political and educational system, its socio-economic performance, and its environmental protection activities.

Established in 1981, APEC aims to develop young Australian political leaders by providing opportunities for them to gain insights into the political systems and cultures of countries with which the Council has established exchange programmes.  It also offers visiting delegates the chance to learn about Australia's political system.  Through the Council's exchange programmes, long-lasting ties and friendships can be formed between future generations of political leaders in Australia and other countries.