Friendship Cycling Journey for Green Hanoi is held annually.
The annual program aims to strengthen friendship exchanges, raise community awareness of environmental protection, promote the image of a cultured, modern and happy Hanoi, and encourage the use of eco-friendly transportation.
Hanoi officials attending the event included Vu Dang Dinh, Standing Committee member of the Hanoi Party Committee and Secretary and Chairman of Hoan Kiem Ward People’s Council; and Nguyen Ngoc Ky, Chairman of HAUFO, together with representatives of municipal agencies and local students.
International guests included Saadi Salama, Ambassador of the State of Palestine and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Vietnam; Jim Nickel, Ambassador of Canada and his spouse; Mario Jose Armengol Campos, Ambassador of Nicaragua; Latana Siharaj, Deputy Ambassador of Laos; and representatives of embassies of Russia, Indonesia, Venezuela, and international organizations in Vietnam.
James Joseph Kendall, a longtime friend of Vietnam, also attended as a special guest.
Hanoi and international delegates attend the opening ceremony.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, HAUFO Chairman said the fifth Friendship Cycling Journey for Green Hanoi attracted more than 300 participants, including ambassadors, chargés d’affaires, embassy officials, and representatives of international and non-governmental organizations.
The event also drew delegates from central agencies, Hanoi, friendship associations, and member clubs.
Vietnam aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 43.5% by 2030 and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. Hanoi’s authorities and residents are working toward building a green city, protecting the environment, supporting younger generations, and addressing challenges brought by urbanization.
The program not only strengthens exchanges and consolidates friendship between Hanoi and international partners but also promotes the image of a green, clean, beautiful, and environmentally friendly capital.
HAUFO Chairman delivers remarks at the event.
According to HAUFO Chairman, environmental protection is an urgent global issue. Using environmentally friendly transportation such as bicycles is an effective way to reduce air pollution and protect the environment.
Speaking at the event, Salama emphasized that the journey is not only a sporting activity but also a meaningful moment to connect and share affection for Hanoi.
Palestinian Ambassador and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps in Vietnam delivers remarks.
He highlighted the special feeling of cycling through Hanoi’s peaceful streets on a cool late-autumn morning, noting the gentle breeze, warm smiles, and the companionship between international friends and local residents that make the experience deeply heartfelt.
He praised Vietnam—and especially Hanoi—for its tradition of honoring cultural and historical values across generations.
Salama expressed admiration for the spirit of “Hanoi for the whole country, the whole country for Hanoi,” describing it as humane and enduring. He noted that Hanoi, a City for Peace and a Creative City, is transforming strongly while preserving its elegance and tranquility. He said he was proud to witness Hanoi’s efforts toward a green, clean, civilized, and modern future.
He commended HAUFO for maintaining the cycling journey for five consecutive years, turning the event into a symbol of green living, international friendship, and the aspiration for sustainable development. He added that each turn of the bicycle wheel represents trust, solidarity, and hope for a better future.
Organizers present bicycles to 10 disadvantaged students.
At the program, the organizers presented 10 bicycles to 10 outstanding students from disadvantaged families in Hoan Kiem Ward. The gift encourages and motivates the students to continue striving and becoming responsible citizens.