The exhibition introduces to the public for the first time hundreds of documents on diplomatic activities during the Nguyen Dynasty’s half century of independence between 1802 and 1858.

The first of two parts shows that the Nguyen Kings, from Gia Long to Tu Duc, consistently implemented a "closed-door policy" in their relations with the UK, France, the US, and other Western countries. The dynasty did not completely cut off relations with the West, however. The Nguyen Kings dispatched delegations to buy essential goods, guns, and ammunition, and and study the science and technology of other countries. Western ships were received by the Nguyen Dynasty many times.

The second part of the exhibition shows that the Nguyen Dynasty developed relations with Eastern countries like Laos, Thailand, and China. The Nguyen dynasty was the last feudal dynasty in Vietnam.