A Royal Visit Spurs Cultural Exchange

In a vibrant display of cultural exchange, the “Harmony of Vietnam-Belgium for Health and Sports” event recently took place in Hanoi, coinciding with the Belgian King and Queen’s state visit to Vietnam. This event served as a platform to celebrate the growing relationship between the two nations, emphasizing the role of sports and martial arts in fostering mutual understanding and cooperation.

Martial Arts as a Cultural bridge

the event, hosted by the Belgian Embassy in Vietnam, saw participation from key figures including Brussels Minister-President Rudy Vervoort, Hanoi leaders, and representatives from Vietnamese martial arts federations.A central highlight was the demonstration of Thuy Phap, a unique martial art founded in Brussels in 2002 by Master Huin chiu Duong.

Thuy Phap distinguishes itself by integrating physical and mental well-being, positioning itself as a method for holistic recovery rather than solely a fighting technique. This approach resonates with the growing global interest in mindfulness and well-being practices, with the global wellness market estimated at over $4.9 trillion according to the Global Wellness Institute.

Two-Pop: A Belgian-Born Martial Art with Vietnamese Roots

Performances of Two-Pop, a martial art originating in Belgium, captivated the audience with its embodiment of Vietnamese martial arts principles. The performances by Lean Kui M, Hongha Ao An Kengyan, and Toric Kiem weaved a narrative rich in Vietnamese cultural identity, showcasing the potential of martial arts to transcend geographical boundaries and strengthen cultural ties.

Sports and martial arts have the power to overcome all the boundaries of nationality, origin, and beliefs.
Rudy Vervoort, Minister-President of Brussels

Minister-President Vervoort underscored the unifying power of sports and martial arts, emphasizing their ability to transcend national, cultural, and ideological divides.

Fostering Mental Strength in Athletes

The “Vietnam-Belgian Health and Sports Harmony” event also facilitated the presentation of “Vietnamese Coach and Mental Training Technology for Athletes” from Brussels Academy Mentally FIT to Hanoi Athletic College. This initiative aims to provide Vietnamese athletes with cutting-edge mental training techniques.

Alain Gotmet, CEO of Mentally FIT and a former athlete and mental coach for the Belgian Olympic team, expressed his commitment to supporting vietnamese sports through this collaboration.His expertise aligns with the increasing recognition of the importance of mental well-being in athletic performance, a field that has seen significant advancements in recent years.

A Symbol of Enduring Friendship

Beyond the sporting and cultural exchanges, the event served as a testament to the enduring friendship and close cooperation between Vietnam and Belgium. The visit of the Belgian King and Queen further solidified this relationship, paving the way for future collaborations in sports, human growth, and other areas of mutual interest.

This event underscores the growing trend of sports diplomacy, where athletic and cultural exchanges are used to foster international relations and promote peace and understanding.As global challenges become increasingly complex, such initiatives play a crucial role in building bridges between nations and creating a more interconnected and harmonious world.

Event Highlights

A showcase of Skill and Tradition

A recent event highlighted the growing international appeal of vietnamese martial arts, showcasing the discipline’s ability to foster cultural exchange and understanding. The performances, especially the opening by the Hanoi Martial Arts Association, were met with excited applause, setting the stage for a day of collaborative demonstrations and discussions.

Belgian Students Embrace Vietnamese Techniques

The event wasn’t just a display by Vietnamese practitioners; it also featured Belgian students showcasing their mastery of vietnamese martial arts techniques. Brugigi Du Jeremy,along with his peers,demonstrated the “Rich Sword” water technology,a testament to the dedication and skill of international students embracing Vietnamese traditions. This cross-cultural exchange underscores the global reach and influence of Vietnamese martial arts.

International Recognition and Support

WFVV Official Membership”>

the World Federation of Vietnamese Vovinam (WFVV) has played a crucial role in promoting and standardizing Vietnamese martial arts globally. Their recognition of official membership in the International Water Act further solidifies the discipline’s place on the world stage. This recognition is vital for ensuring quality and consistency in training and competition across different countries.

Government Officials Acknowledge Cultural Exchange

High-ranking officials from both Vietnam and Belgium attended the event, underscoring the importance of this cultural exchange. Prime Minister Rudy Berbord, along with Huin Chiujong and Vietnamese Traditional Martial Arts Vice-Chairman Leungok Quang, presented gifts and medals to participating martial artists, acknowledging their dedication and skill. Such high-level support highlights the diplomatic and cultural value of martial arts exchanges.

Honoring Dedication to Tradition

Prime Minister Rudy Berbutt presented Lean Ngok Quang with an honor cup, recognizing his unwavering commitment to the preservation and promotion of traditional Vietnamese martial arts. This award underscores the importance of safeguarding cultural heritage and the individuals who dedicate their lives to this cause.

The Mental and physical Synergy

Alain Goudsmet, CEO of Mentally Fit, expressed his enthusiasm for the collaboration with Vietnam Sports, emphasizing the mental fortitude cultivated through martial arts training. This partnership highlights the holistic benefits of martial arts, encompassing both physical prowess and mental discipline. Studies have shown that martial arts training can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance overall well-being.