APEC photo on the Bangkok Post (

2 days prior to APEC Economic Leaders’ Week, Da Nang city was battered by typhoon Damrey. Many areas were heavily flooded. The neighboring Hoi An ancient town, which hosted activities of APEC leaders’ spouses, was not an exception. But with efforts of the local administration and people, life returned to normal on the day it welcomed distinguished guests. Visiting Hoi An silk village, Ms. Lynda Babao O’Neil, spouse of the Papua New Guinea President, said: “I enjoy myself very much. The culture is so rich, diverse and beautiful. The people have been so warm and friendly. I’m glad to be able to have the opportunity to be here in Vietnam. Thank you for having me. This time with the children, so they can understand the culture and similarities between our both countries Papua New Guinea and Vietnam.”

Da Nang’s efforts to overcome typhoon Damrey’s consequences to prepare for the APEC Meeting impressed thousands of delegates and leaders of 21 APEC economies. Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong posted a photo on his Facebook page with a caption “A little boy in a cute hat against the majestic Dragon Bridge and clear skies after the storm”.  Kadrinka Kadrinova, President of Union of Bulgarian and Spanish speaking journalists wrote all Vietnamese people are mobilized to overcome the aftermaths of natural disasters with their unity, sharing and community responsibility.

US President Donald Trump expressed his admiration for Vietnam’s rapid development: “Today, an opening Vietnamese economy is one of the fastest-growing economies on Earth. And this port city is bustling with ships from around the world. Engineering marvels, like the Dragon Bridge, welcome the millions who come to visit Da Nang's stunning beaches, shining lights, and ancient charms.”

Vietnam was a peaceful and safe destination, said Karen Curento, a Peruvian journalist: “This is the first time I’m here in Vietnam. My impression: What great hospitality. The people are so warm and welcoming. It’s almost like we don’t look different. So, it’s like being in different regions with different languages. It’s a great experience to be here.”

Vietnam’s safety and friendliness were evidence by the images of Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau jogging and enjoying a cup of coffee in a street café in Ho Chi Minh City, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov having mud bathing in Da Nang leaving home his escort and security forces, and Australian Prime Minister Malcom Turnbull and chef Luke Nguyen having bread breakfast on a street in Da Nang.

More than 240 activities were held in 10 cities and provinces throughout APEC Year 2017, helping to promote Vietnam’s dynamism, hospitality,  culture, and history.