Busan and Ho Chi Minh City Mayors Discuss Further Cooperation and Exchange

BUSAN — On September 26, Busan Mayor Park Heong-joon held a constructive meeting with Ho Chi Minh City Mayor Phan Van Mai at the Busan City Hall, outlining various avenues to enhance the bond between the two long-standing sister cities.

"Busan and Ho Chi Minh City share a special relationship," remarked Mayor Park. He highlighted the significant presence of Busan-based companies, notably in the footwear industry, operating in Ho Chi Minh City. "Our cities have been actively collaborating across diverse sectors such as economy, culture, and human exchanges. I'm hopeful that we can explore even more avenues for partnership in the near future," he added.

In response, Mayor Phan Van Mai, visiting Busan for the first time, expressed his gratitude for the city's hospitality. "I eagerly anticipate a closer collaboration between our cities, especially in the realms of trade and investment," he said.

Drawing attention to Ho Chi Minh City's ambitious urban development endeavors, Mayor Phan stated, "With the inaugural metro line set to be operational by year's end and a pilot run scheduled for early next year, we are keen to learn from Busan's exemplary transportation system."

Mayor Park congratulated Ho Chi Minh City on its subway inauguration and emphasized the importance of an integrated public transportation system. "Seamless transitions between different modes of transportation, such as subways and buses, are crucial. I believe Ho Chi Minh City can benefit from Busan's transit interchange system," he advised.

Moreover, Mayor Phan shared his aspiration to hold an international film festival in Ho Chi Minh City, similar to the renowned Busan International Film Festival. He expressed a keen interest in gaining insights from Busan's experiences, especially its preparations for the 2030 World Expo.

During the meeting, Mayor Phan expressed his anticipation to personally witness Busan's advanced urban rail and other transportation systems. He further invited Mayor Park to visit Ho Chi Minh City, emphasizing the possibility of applying Busan's transportation expertise there.

Acknowledging the gesture, Mayor Park conveyed his gratitude for Mayor Phan's visit. "Busan is pooling all its resources for the 2030 World Expo bid. With the host city decision looming on November 28, we hope for Ho Chi Minh City's staunch support. I look forward to visiting Ho Chi Minh City when the opportunity arises," he asserted.

Following their discussions, the delegation from Ho Chi Minh City embarked on a hands-on experience of Busan's subway system. They purchased QR-based tickets at City Hall Station and traveled to Seomyeon Station, gaining firsthand insights into the operation of the subway and exploring various features, including the vertical garden.