Thai king and queen visit Hanoi university that hosts Thai language, culture center

Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida visited Hanoi University, meeting its staff and students on Wednesday. As part of their state visit to Vietnam, Thai King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua and Queen Suthida visit Hanoi University on Wednesday afternoon. Vietnam-Thailand ties are on clear display at Hanoi University through Thai language training, cultural exchanges and student exchange programs. The university's Thai Language and Culture Center was established in 2009. King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida watch a dance performance by students. The king and queen applaud a dance performed to the song "Rak Thai" (Love Thailand). A student representative extends best wishes to the king and queen. More than 1,000 students at the university have studied Thai as a second foreign language, nearly 200 learners have taken short-term Thai courses, and nearly 150 students have studied or joined exchange programs in Thailand. Hanoi University President Nguyen Van Trao says it is an honor to host the king and queen, calling the visit a source of encouragement for the lecturers, staff and students who teach, work and study there. The king and queen tour the Thai Language and Culture Center. The university's Thai Cultural Space is a highlight of cultural and educational cooperation between the two countries. Renovated and expanded in 2018 with support from the Thai Embassy in Hanoi, the space lets Vietnamese students learn about and experience Thai culture through language, art and interactive activities. The king and queen watch students make handicrafts. The king and queen present teaching materials and equipment to the Thai Language and Culture Center. Hanoi University's leadership says the school will build on its strengths in foreign language training, international education, cultural exchange and academic cooperation, while creating more opportunities for students from both countries to learn, share experiences and grow together, helping nurture Vietnam-Thailand friendship among the younger generation.