Camp participants attend the 18th overseas Vietnamese youth summer camp in 2025
The 2025 Vietnam Summer Camp, themed “Together, we continue the story of peace,” officially began in Ho Chi Minh City on July 14, bringing together young overseas Vietnamese for a journey across numerous localities nationwide.
More than 100 young overseas Vietnamese from 31 countries and territories joined the first day of the camp. They visited Nha Rong Wharf, where President Ho Chi Minh embarked on his journey to seek national salvation in 1911; offered flowers and incense at his statue; and toured the Reunification Hall (formerly the Independence Palace), a landmark of the country’s complete victory and reunification on April 30, 1975.
The participants also took part in a heritage excursion to the Cu Chi Tunnels, known as the “land of steel” –a site that symbolizes the patriotism, resilience, and determination of the Vietnamese people in their fight for independence and unification.
Ngo Thi Thanh Mai, Deputy Head of the State Committee for Overseas Vietnamese and Head of the 2025 summer camp delegation, said the theme “Together, we continue the story of peace” reflects a call for overseas youth to help spread national values of peace, compassion, inclusiveness, and aspiration for progress.
It also highlights the legacy passed down by earlier generations who fought and sacrificed for independence and national development. She added that Ho Chi Minh City was chosen as the camp’s first destination for its historical significance, offering participants a chance to better understand the country’s proud past.
The camp includes a broad array of activities spanning the northern, central, and southern regions, allowing participants not only to experience Vietnam’s history, culture, and society, but also to share their own reflections and impressions through exchange activities with localities and young people throughout the country.
One of the highlights of the program is a meeting with the Vietnam Department of Peacekeeping Operations. The aim is to help participants understand that Vietnam not only fought for its own independence but is also committed to contributing to global peace and international responsibility.
The 2025 camp runs from July 13 to 26, with events held in Ho Chi Minh City, Dak Lak, Quang Ngai, Danang, Quang Tri, Nghe An, Ninh Binh, and Hanoi. The official opening ceremony will take place in Dak Lak on the evening of July 16, while the closing ceremony is scheduled for July 25 in Hanoi.
First launched in 2004 (with a two-year pause due to the COVID-19 pandemic), Vietnam Summer Camp is an annual program that brings together young overseas Vietnamese to reconnect with their homeland, strengthen bonds with each other and with Vietnamese youth, and nurture patriotism. It helps inspire the younger generation to stay engaged with and contribute to their home country.