The First Lady of Panama was impressed with the cultures of Vietnam's ethnic groups.

In a friendly atmosphere, the two ladies spent time learning about cultural diversity through traditional costumes, as well as weaving and embroidery techniques passed down through generations.

The two ladies interacted directly with the artisans, discovering the unique handicraft processes of the Ta Oi, Red Dao, and Green Hmong ethnic groups, such as indigo dyeing and beeswax painting techniques.

PHOTO: VNA

On this occasion, Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly shared that the biggest challenge facing traditional culture today is integrating heritage into daily life to create sustainable livelihoods, especially for women and vulnerable groups.

Supporting handicraft communities, especially ethnic minority women in remote areas, not only helps increase income but also revives dying crafts, creating conditions for heritage to continue to be practiced and adapted to contemporary life.

PHOTO: HONG NGUYEN

Mrs. Maricel Cohen de Mulino shared her joy and particular impression of the cultural similarities between the two countries, despite being thousands of miles apart.

Mrs. Maricel Cohen de Mulino stated that the Mola art of the indigenous Guna people in Panama shares a strong resemblance in its use of colors and patterns with the traditional clothing of the Hmong, Dao, and Thai people in Vietnam.

PHOTO: HONG NGUYEN

To conclude the program, Mrs. Maricel Cohen de Mulino thanked Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly for the warm welcome.

Both ladies shared the hope that in the future, the two countries will continue to promote cultural and people-to-people exchanges, thereby deepening understanding and strengthening the good friendship between the people of Vietnam and Panama.