Liverpool and Ho Chi Minh City held a cultural festival in Việt Nam this week as the two cities embarked on a new twinning relationship.
In collaboration with the British Consulate General in Ho Chi Minh City and the British Council, the Liverpool Culture Festival marked the beginning of a long-term City2City Partnership between Ho Chi Minh City and Liverpool.
A delegation from the UK, including Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, visited Ho Chi Minh City to celebrate the collaboration and take part in the launch event.
Over two days, the Liverpool Culture Festival brought a taste of Liverpool to Việt Nam, offering locals the opportunity to connect, exchange and experience distinctive aspects of British culture in their city.
The event included a cultural celebration with unique activities such as the Ho Chi Minh City Symphony Orchestra performing Beatles songs, an immersive virtual reality journey exploring the city of Liverpool in 360°, a Mini Anfield Stadium experience, and a Twin Cities digital gallery, alongside music performances, interactive activities, and exclusive souvenirs.
The special kick-off event follows the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in healthcare, education and science and technology between the two cities, which was concluded during General Secretary Tô Lâm’s official visit to the United Kingdom in October 2025.
The Culture Delegation, led by Councillor Harry Doyle, also held a productive working session with the HCMC People’s Committee on future collaborations, as well as a full schedule arranged by the British Council with partners and stakeholders in the cultural sector, from government agencies and institutions to independent arts and cultural organisations.
The agreement reflects the commitment of both city authorities to establish and develop links between the two localities, while also creating opportunities for public participation in shared cultural experiences and opening pathways for new cooperative initiatives.
Over the years, Liverpool has built strong and positive relationships with many countries around the world, and Ho Chi Minh City is Liverpool’s 11th twin city.
Liverpool City Council’s Cabinet Member for Health, Wellbeing and Culture, Councillor Harry Doyle, said: “We are delighted to be here in Ho Chi Minh City to celebrate this new partnership between our two great cities.
“We are proud to stand alongside Ho Chi Minh City as a partner in health, wellbeing and culture and we are looking forward to working together to bring joint benefits to the people in both of our communities. We may be separated by thousands of miles, but we are united by shared ambitions: to celebrate our unique cultures, improve the health of our residents, and tackle inequalities.
“Together, we can show how culture strengthens health and wellbeing and can help build healthier, fairer and more prosperous futures for the people we serve.”
James Shipton, Director of the British Council in Việt Nam, said: “The British Council is delighted to see the formation of this new City to City relationship.
“For over 30 years, we have worked side by side with artists, cultural institutions and creative communities in both our countries to build long term connections through culture between the UK and Viet Nam.
“This new relationship is a wonderful example of how such connections can support innovation, protect and promote heritage, and create opportunities for new generations of Vietnamese and British creatives to collaborate and thrive together.”
British Consul General in HCMC, Alexandra Smith: “This festival reflects our commitment to long-term UK–Viet Nam city partnerships and meaningful cultural exchange. This time we are not only showcasing the world-renowned Liverpool’s music and arts, but also introducing emerging artists’ products with vision to inspire grassroot and youth-led creative collaboration from our two cities.
“We really appreciate for the strong support and active participation of HCMC’s leadership in this partnership and this special event.”