The cooperative relationship between the National Library of Viet Nam (NLV) and Spanish libraries and cultural institutions has been maintained for many years, with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of Spain in Viet Nam. On the morning of August 24, 2026, in Hanoi, Ambassador Carmen Cano de Lasala paid a working visit to the NLV. The NLV's Director Nguyen Xuan Dung hosted the meeting, with the participation of officials from the Embassy and the NLV.
Overview of the meeting
Introducing the NLV, Director Nguyen Xuan Dung gave an overview of the Library's history, functions, responsibilities, and position within the Viet Nam's library system. He also highlighted several notable activities in preserving, promoting, and disseminating cultural and historical values, contributing to bringing Viet Nam's heritage and knowledge to readers both at home and abroad.
The relationship between the NLV and the National Library of Spain (NLS) was formalized through a cooperation agreement signed in 2005, with the active support and facilitation of the Spanish Embassy in Viet Nam. Over the years, the Embassy has presented the NLV with hundreds of valuable books on numerous occasions, enriching the Library's collections on the history, culture, country, and people of Spain and meeting the needs of Vietnamese readers interested in learning more about Spain.
Ambassador Carmen Cano de Lasala at the Spanish-language book space
Discussing directions for future cooperation, both sides expressed interest in expanding the exchange of library materials, sharing professional expertise and experience, and organizing professional activities. Director Nguyen Xuan Dung proposed that the Embassy continue to support the NLV in strengthening its relations with the NLS and other Spanish cultural institutions and organizations, thereby creating more opportunities to develop activities that align with the strengths and needs of both sides.
In addition to professional cooperation, the two sides also discussed about book introduction, exhibition, and cultural exchange activities at the NLV as concrete avenues for future collaboration. These activities would help bring Spanish culture closer to the Vietnamese public while creating more opportunities for cultural and intellectual exchange between the people of the two countries.
Ambassador of the Kingdom of Spain to Vietnam visits the Children's Cultural Library
Ambassador Carmen Cano de Lasala highly appreciated the NLV's contributions to preserving and promoting cultural heritage, fostering a reading culture, and expanding public access to knowledge. The Ambassador affirmed that the Embassy would continue to promote relations between the NLV and the NLS, while expressing her hope that exchanges and cooperation between the two sides would continue to expand.
The discussions took place in the context of Viet Nam and Spain look ahead to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations in 2027. Strengthening exchanges between libraries and cultural institutions will provide an additional channel for connection, helping the people of both countries gain a deeper understanding of each other's history, culture, and way of life.
Director Nguyen Xuan Dung and Ambassador Carmen Cano de Lasala exchange souvenirs
Following the working session, Ambassador Carmen Cano de Lasala and members of the delegation toured the Library's premises and reader service areas and learned more about some of the NLV's activities.
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News: Duong Giang; Photos: Bui Ngoc Anh