ASEAN Friendship Bridge

Seminar on Innovating and Elevating ASEAN People-to-People Diplomacy in the New Era

Hanoi, 14 December 2026

Sheraton Hanoi Hotel, Tay Ho, Hanoi

About the Event

Connecting ASEAN communities, fostering substantive cooperation, and advancing the role of people-to-people diplomacy in the new era.

The Seminar serves as a platform for dialogue among leaders, diplomats, experts, scholars, business representatives, and organizations from ASEAN Member States to explore innovative approaches and enhance the effectiveness of people-to-people diplomacy. Focusing on two key areas — the development of next-generation industries and the promotion of cultural exchange and tourism — the event aims to strengthen multilateral connectivity, expand opportunities for regional cooperation, and officially launch the ASEAN Friendship Bridge, a digital platform designed to foster sustainable connections and collaboration among ASEAN communities.

In this special seminar, we’ll understand the changes observed in client requirements and some realistic designs that work.

Event Schedule

Explore the programme of the seminar, featuring keynote addresses, expert discussions, and networking opportunities to strengthen ASEAN cooperation and people-to-people diplomacy.

07:45 AM

Registration & Welcome

Guest registration and event introduction.
08:30 AM

Opening Ceremony

Opening remarks and welcome addresses by representatives of Viet Nam and ASEAN.
9:05 AM

Keynote & Guest Addresses

Perspectives on advancing people-to-people diplomacy in the new era.
10:05 AM

Tea Break

10:15 AM

Session 1: Next-Generation Industries

Discussion on technology transfer, human resource development, and regional cooperation.
11:00 AM

Session 2: ASEAN Cultural Exchange & Tourism

Exploring cultural exchange, heritage promotion, and sustainable tourism cooperation.
11:45 AM

Closing Ceremony

Introduction of the ASEAN Friendship Bridge digital platform.
12:00 PM

Networking Lunch

Meet the Speakers

The seminar brings together distinguished diplomats, policymakers, academics, experts, and business leaders from across ASEAN to exchange perspectives on advancing people-to-people diplomacy and strengthening regional cooperation. Through insightful discussions on next-generation industries, cultural exchange, and tourism, our speakers will explore new opportunities for connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development across the ASEAN Community.

1.SANAN ANGUBOLKUL

6.Ambassador PHAM QUANG VINH

2.Prof. VU MINH KHUONG

7.KOH ZHENGWEI JESTYN

3.Assoc. Prof.
TRAN NGOC CA

8.FRANCIS STA ANA

4.NGUYEN HUU TRUNG

9.CHALERMCHAI PORNSIRIPIYAKOOL

5.EMMANUEL LANCE CHRISTOPHER VI
M. PLAN

Meet the Speakers

The seminar brings together distinguished diplomats, policymakers, academics, experts, and business leaders from across ASEAN to exchange perspectives on advancing people-to-people diplomacy and strengthening regional cooperation. Through insightful discussions on next-generation industries, cultural exchange, and tourism, our speakers will explore new opportunities for connectivity, innovation, and sustainable development across the ASEAN Community.

About the Organisers

The seminar is jointly organised by five bilateral friendship associations: the Viet Nam–Singapore, Viet Nam–Thailand, Viet Nam–Malaysia, Viet Nam–Philippines, and Viet Nam–Indonesia Friendship Associations.

Bringing together organisations dedicated to fostering friendship and cooperation between Viet Nam and ASEAN Member States, the Organising Committee aims to strengthen people-to-people ties, promote mutual understanding, and build sustainable partnerships across the region.

Our Sponsors

It is not possible to host several seminars in different locations without helping hands.

We have several sponsors who volunteer to help us physically and financially to make things happen.