Hanoi – Amsterdam: From Heart to Heart – a journey of gratitude, connection, and legacy

Nearly 100 alumni of Hanoi – Amsterdam High School, spanning generations and representing 16 countries, gathered in the Dutch capital to mark a historic journey celebrating both the school’s 40th anniversary (1985–2025) and the 750th anniversary of the City of Amsterdam (1275–2025).

Titled “AMS40 – From Heart to Heart,” the 22-day journey took participants from Hanoi through Paris and Brussels before arriving in Amsterdam. More than a reunion, the journey was a heartfelt tribute to the people and government of Amsterdam, whose support during the “Amsterdam Helpt Hanoi” movement (1973–1975) helped post-war Hanoi rebuild, laying the foundation for what would become the Hanoi – Amsterdam High School.

Organized by the Hanoi – Amsterdam Organization (H-A-O), the journey commemorated past solidarity, celebrated enduring bonds, and looked to the future of international cooperation, particularly in education and cultural exchange between Vietnam and the Netherlands.

A celebration of solidarity and a tribute to history

Key commemorative activities took place in Amsterdam from June 19 to 21, highlighted by an official meeting at City Hall with the Amsterdam City Council. The event welcomed Mr. Kune Burgers, Chairman of the Presidium and Member of the Amsterdam City Council; H.E. Mr. Ngo Huong Nam, Ambassador of Vietnam to the Netherlands; Mr. Mai Thanh Ha, President of H-A-O; Mr. Chris de Vries, participant in the original “Amsterdam Helpt Hanoi” campaign; Ms. Sabine Gimbrère, Director of the International Office of the City of Amsterdam; Mr. Arne Hoogcarspel, Team Manager for primary education; along with other representatives from the city and the Hanoi – Amsterdam alumni network.

The meeting reaffirmed the enduring friendship between the two cities and acknowledged the younger generation’s appreciation for this historical bond.

On June 19, the delegation visited the Embassy of Vietnam in The Hague and met with Ambassador Ngo Huong Nam. On June 20, they presented the Amsterdam City Council with a handcrafted artwork made from recycled silk by Vun Art, symbolizing Vietnamese creativity and sustainability. The group also donated a Vietnamese Bookshelf to the OBA Public Library in central Amsterdam, featuring books on Vietnamese history, culture, and children's literature, offering a window into the humanistic spirit of the country.

On June 21, at Dam Square - where Dutch citizens once gathered in support of Vietnam over five decades ago - the delegation held a remembrance ceremony, shared reflections, and captured commemorative photos at the historic location of the “Amsterdam Helpt Hanoi” banner.

The journey concluded with a symbolic AMS40 procession through the square and a gala dinner that brought together alumni from across 16 countries. The event was filled with heartfelt stories, flag-signing, emotional reunions, and a collective commitment to carrying forward the legacy of international friendship and community connection.

A living testament of connection

The nine-day, eight-night journey through France, Belgium, and the Netherlands served as both a symbolic homecoming and a living expression of unity within the global Vietnamese community and the lasting friendship between Vietnam and the Netherlands.

Hanoi – Amsterdam High School, founded in the spirit of gratitude and solidarity, has grown into a symbol of academic excellence and international partnership. Its alumni network, through the Hanoi – Amsterdam Organization (H-A-O), continues to honor this legacy. H-A-O organizes cultural exchanges, sports events, knowledge-sharing sessions, community projects, and education development programs, helping generations of students stay connected and contribute meaningfully to society.

More than just a community of former classmates, H-A-O is a platform where the past is honored, the present is celebrated, and the future is built - together, from heart to heart.