Hanoi: Ngo Phuong Ly, spouse of Party General Secretary To Lam, held a meeting with the spouse of Japanese Prime Minister Ishiba Yoshiko on April 27. After their meeting, the two ladies made ‘banh com’ (Green sticky rice cake), Hanoi’s famous sweet treat.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the meeting between Ngo Phuong Ly and Ishiba Yoshiko highlighted the cultural exchange and friendship between the two nations. The spouses’ activity of making ‘banh com’ together symbolizes the shared appreciation and respect for each other’s traditions.

The event underscored the importance of cultural diplomacy and the role of personal relationships in strengthening international ties. The creation of ‘banh com’ by the spouses of prominent leaders offered a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Hanoi, showcasing a traditional Vietnamese delicacy to a Japanese audience.