Since early 2015, Da Nang has embarked on making good preparations for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Week 2017 (AELW) which is the culmination of Viet Nam’s year-long hosting of APEC meetings.

State President Tran Dai Quang (2nd right) and Da Nang People’s Committee Chairman Huynh Duc Tho (2nd left) during their inspection visits to local key projects for AELW in April

Over the past nearly 3 years, given the instructions from national high-ranking leaders and the APEC 2017 National Committee, and a close coordination amongst government agencies, the authority and people of the host city have made a high level of consensus in implementing preparatory work for the upcoming AELW in all aspects. 

Currently, key infrastructure facilities, security and medical services, human resources and publicity activities are ready to serve AELW.

As a part of the international passenger terminal project at the Da Nang International Airport, a VIP lounge area has already been put into use.  This facility serves any domestic and foreign high-level delegations passing through the airport, especially those attending AELW.  In addition, the aircraft apron area expansion has been completed with around 43 new aircraft parking spaces in total.

Inside the Da Nang International Airport

Another outstanding project is the International Media Centre located at 9 Cach Mang Thang Tam.  The 178.8 billion VND, 3-storey Centre can accommodate a total of about 3,000 journalists from domestic and international media agencies during AELW. 

Other key infrastructure facilities where many events will take place in the framework of the APEC summit week have also been refurbished.  Most notable are the InterContinental Danang Sun Peninsula Resort, the Ariyana Convention and Exhibition Centre (ADECC) at the Furama Resort Danang, the Tien Son Sports Arena, the Sheraton Hotel and the Pullman Danang Resort.  In addition, a chain of high-class seaside resorts and hotels are now getting ready to serve the APEC delegates from both home and abroad.

Over the past 2 years, many inner-city streets where the delegates are expected to pass through during AELW have already been refurbished.  The pavements have been upgraded, and more trees and grasses have been planted along these streets to give them a new look.

The new attraction in the city for AELW is the APEC Park which has been built on a 3.047m2 triangular-shaped vacant land lot at the intersection area of 2 September street and Bach Dang extended street, near the western end of the Rong (Dragon) Bridge, in Hai Chau District’s Binh Hien Ward.

In the spotlight at the park are the symbols of APEC's 21 member economies which show of their distinctive characteristics.  In particular, the placing of the symbols shows the spirit of cooperation among these economies looking towards a common future for their mutual development.

Apart from the city good infrastructure system and beautiful urban landscapes, the image of local residents is expected to leave a good impression on the domestic and international delegates attending AELW. 

To date, English training courses have been offered to a total of over 300 officials and employees from local government agencies and those who involve in serving local security and health care and media services.

Furthermore, a total of about 800 qualified people from local government agencies and educational establishments have been selected to work as liaison officers and volunteers for AELW.

The Da Nang Department of Tourism-launched ‘Da Nang Smile’ campaign is now progressing well in an effort to make Da Nang a civilised, friendly and hospitable city.  Through this meaningful campaign, local residents are considered to be enthusiastic and friendly tourism ambassadors for their city.  Their smile will help the city extend a warm welcome to visitors from both home and abroad, and make a successful AELW.

At a recent inspection visit to Da Nang, the Deputy Prime Minister cum Chairman of the APEC 2017 National Committee, Mr Pham Binh Minh, gave high praise to Da Nang for its good preparations for AELW. 

Deputy Prime Minister Pham Binh Minh (1st row, 2nd right) and Chairman Tho recently visiting a local key project for AELW

With only 13 days left to AELW, the host city is now moving into top gear to continue making greater joint efforts with APEC sub-committees to ensure the great success of this international large-scale event will help Viet Nam enhance its reputation in world arena.