Son La provincial leaders presented souvenirs to the Embassy of the Republic of Haiti.

Mr. Nguyen Van May, Deputy Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs, said: Determining foreign reception work is an important political task, not only demonstrating hospitality and professionalism, but also an opportunity to promote the image and potential of Son La to the world. In the first 6 months of the year, Son La province welcomed 69 delegations, 375 foreign visitors, of which 17 delegations with 246 visitors came from Laos. The diverse international delegations, from high-ranking diplomatic delegations to organizations and businesses, require the reception work to be carefully prepared at all stages, from planning, arranging accommodation, to organizing work, sightseeing and sideline activities.

The Department of Foreign Affairs also actively coordinates with the State Protocol Department, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related units, departments and sectors to prepare conditions for foreign delegations to visit and work in the province. At the same time, it guides agencies and organizations to carry out diplomatic protocol work according to regulations, demonstrating professionalism and unity.

To ensure a thoughtful reception, in addition to understanding the purpose of the delegation, building a detailed program, and meeting partners in accordance with the wishes and interests of both parties, the reception team must also learn about the culture, customs, practices, and beliefs of each delegation to carry out a thoughtful reception, respecting the culture of the partner.

Delegation of Son La province attended the 21st border work meeting between Son La province and Hua Phan province.

Mr. Nguyen Van Doan, Head of the Foreign Affairs and Border Affairs Department, Department of Foreign Affairs, said: When receiving information about welcoming each international delegation to Son La, we begin to carefully study their background, purpose of visit, culture and customs of their country. From there, we prepare the most suitable reception plans.

In addition, officers and specialists in charge of welcoming international delegations must also have the skills and experience to flexibly handle unexpected situations. Regularly exchange and learn from experience to improve processes, enhance foreign language and communication skills and gain a deeper understanding of the cultures of other countries.

Ms. Nguyen Thanh Mai, an expert from the Department of Foreign Affairs and Border Affairs, Department of Foreign Affairs, shared: Recently, the Department of Foreign Affairs coordinated with the Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism to welcome the Embassy of India to attend the Opening Ceremony of the Indian Film Festival in Son La City. As soon as we learned about the eating habits of the delegation, we quickly worked with the restaurants to ensure that they provided a full range of vegetarian dishes and fruit juices to suit the tastes and diets of the guests. These actions demonstrate deep concern and respect for the culture of our partners.

The Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of India to Vietnam and his wife visited agricultural models in Moc Chau town.

With the advantage of natural landscapes and typical agricultural products, Moc Chau town regularly welcomes research and survey delegations from international organizations and foreign investors. Ms. Nguyen Thi Hoa, Vice Chairman of Moc Chau Town People's Committee, said: Every time we welcome international delegations, the town coordinates with the Department of Foreign Affairs to learn about the nationality, position, and role of each member of the delegation, especially the head of the delegation and important figures. Thereby, we determine the correct reception protocol to apply, as well as the appropriate form of address and seating arrangements during working sessions and receptions. Along with that, we introduce the local culture, OCOP products and the development potential of the town so that delegations can better understand Moc Chau. At the same time, we open up opportunities for cooperation, attract investment to promote the economic and social development of the district.

The efforts of the staff and employees working in the foreign affairs reception of the Department of Foreign Affairs and other units and localities in the province are increasingly improving and becoming more professional. Not only contributing to enhancing the position and image of Son La in the international arena, but also creating a solid foundation for attracting resources, promoting cooperation and socio-economic development of the province.