On 5 July 2013, H.E. Mr. Nguyen Van Tho, the Ambassador of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, hosted a 2013 Friendship Exchange between the Embassy of Viet Nam and the ASEAN China Centre (ACC) in the Embassy's premises in Beijing. Mr. Ma Mingqiang, the Secretary-General of the ACC, led the ACC delegation to the event. Participants of more than 60 persons from both sides comprised officials and staffs at all different levels. Activities included table-tennis friendly game competition, traditional dinner and leisure moment of karaoke, which helped boost and strengthen relations between the Vietnamese Embassy and the ACC. Representatives from Tai Ao Company were also invited as special guests of the Embassy.

At their bilateral talk between Ambassador Nguyen Van Tao and Mr. Ma prior to the game competition, the Ambassador emphasized an importance year of 2013 which marks the 10th Anniversary of ASEAN-China Strategic Partnership, as well as active roles of the ACC in promoting ASEAN-China relations. The Ambassador reiterated his strong support and cooperation to the ACC's activities.

Mr. Ma expressed his deep appreciation to the Ambassador for organizing this opportune evening to enhance relations between the ACC and the Vietnamese Embassy. He elaborated on how the Embassy has been working closely with the ACC in the areas of education, tourism and investment cooperation. Mr. Ma looked forward to cooperateing further with the Embassy on projects such as Chinese investment mission to Viet Nam, high vocational schools cooperation, as well as capacity building and scholarships on tourism management.

This was the first time for the ASEAN Embassies in Beijing to organize such activities with the ACC. The meeting was productive and both sides enjoyed this cordial moment with great appreciation.