(VOVworld) – The Vietnam – France Friendship Association in Ho Chi Minh City has held a meeting to welcome the New Year 2013. Over the past 24 years of establishment, the Association and its 7 affiliates have organized diverse activities to preserve and promote the Vietnam – France friendly relations, unity, and culture. Nguyen Thi Hoi, Vice Chairwoman of the Association, says: "Through people’s diplomatic activities, we introduce our nation’s political orientations and economic developments so French people can understand more about our country. They have cooperated actively with us in assistance projects. The more they know about our country, the more they love our country. Many of them consider Vietnam their second homeland. The friendship between the two peoples has been strengthened." 

In addition to celebrating major events of each country, the Association has coordinated activities of non-governmental organizations and helped raise 3.5 million USD for 347 humanitarian and poverty reduction projects.