Hanoi (VNA)🌄 – The 2024 Asia-Pacific Francophone Youth Forum is set to take centre stage in Hanoi from September 11-13, announced the Central Committee of the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (HCYU).

Co-hosted by the HCYU Central Committee, the National Committee on Youth of Vietnam, and the Asia-Pacific Regional Office of the International Organisation of La Francophonie (OIF), this event promises to be a vibrant hub of cultural exchange, intellectual discourse and innovative thinking. The forum will bring together 50 distinguished delegates from OIF member and observer countries across the Asia-Pacific, including Cambodia, the Republic of Korea, Laos, New Caledonia (France), Polynesia (France), Thailand, Vanuatu, Vietnam, and Wallis and Futuna (France). To qualify, delegates must be aged between 18 and 35, possess a proficient command of the French language, and demonstrate relevant knowledge, experience, and a keen interest in cultural exchange. Additionally, they are expected to propose projects in fields ranging from art and creativity to economy and innovation. Vietnam will be represented by 10 delegates, alongside an additional 10 domestic and foreign experts and lecturers. This blend of young talent and seasoned professionals ensures a rich and diverse exchange of ideas. The forum will kick off with an opening ceremony on September 11, followed by a plenary session featuring a roundtable discussion titled “The Francophone Community in Asia-Pacific: Cross-Cutting Perspectives”. The afternoon will see a series of thematic workshops focusing on overseas employment opportunities, entrepreneurship, sustainable tourism, and digital technology and information communication. On September 12, the agenda includes sessions on leadership, emotional intelligence, and intercultural communication in the workplace. The final day, September 13, will be dedicated to a youth training course on project development. Delegates will engage in group discussions to create innovative youth projects, culminating in the presentation of their group proposals. This hands-on approach encourages them to apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired throughout the forum, translating ideas into actionable projects. Delegates will also have the opportunity to immerse themselves in Vietnamese culture through various visits and experiences. According to the HCYU Central Committee, the event looks to sustain and enhance cooperation among youth and students within the Francophone community, while also showcasing Vietnam's active role as a member. The event aims to strengthen connection between Vietnamese youth and their international peers, fostering goodwill and appreciation for Vietnam among the younger generation across the region. It will showcase Vietnam's potential, culture, and traditions, highlighting the dynamic, intellectual and integrated image of Vietnamese youth. Also a platform to present Vietnam's image, the event serves to introduce the HCYU, and underscore the role of youth and youth organisations in national construction and defence. It is expected to reinforce Vietnam's role and position as a key Francophone nation in the Asia-Pacific, demonstrating its commitment as a responsible member actively contributing to the cooperative activities of the Francophone community. The OIF was established in 1970 and today has 88 members and observers across five continents. Incorporating 1.2 billion people, the Francophone Community accounts for 16% of the world population and 16.5% of total global assets./.