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.
