With the aim of increasing economic and political relationships with others in the region, in 2017, Vietnam will be the host of Asia- Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC 2017). In addition, Danang has been chosen by the government as the host for APEC Summit Week, with the most important event: Economic Leaders’ Meeting – where leaders of 21 member governments meet each year at the summit. The events will include many bilateral and multilateral meetings between member governments’ leaders and leaders of the Communist Party, Vietnamese Government and APEC delegates.
Confirming its position
APEC Summit Week 2017 will happen in November 2017 with 10,000 participants, in which there are 2,000 official delegates, 3,000 journalists and reporters, 5,000 businesses and other delegates. This will be the largest event in Danang in 2017, an opportunity for Danang to promote tourism to the world and call for investments.
Danang has an advantage when it comes to facilities, transportation, accommodations and services. Especially the city has rich experience with international events such as Danang International Fireworks Competition, Danang International Marathon, Clipper Race (February, 2016), Beach- Leisure & MICE Travel Mart (June, 2016). Before APEC 2017, Danang has hosted on behalf of Vietnam many national and international events: Asia Beach Games (September, 2016), ASEAN Foreign Ministers’ Meeting Retreat (2010), ASEAN Senior Official’s Meeting (2006)… It can be seen that Danang has been gradually confirming its position as an international MICE destination.
Preparing process
To prepare for APEC 2017, Danang has been investing on building new and improving main projects for the events of APEC, such as changing Exhibition and Convention Center into International Press Center, improving Tien Son Sports Center for APEC Business Meeting, constructing new facilities such as Ariyana Danang Exhibition and Convention Center, Convention Center at InterContinental Danang, building new International Terminal at Danang International Airport, building VIP rooms for National Leaders, improving main streets in the city center like Le Duan, Nguyen Van Linh, Ngo Quyen, Nguyen Huu Tho…, investing and preparing 13,000 rooms in 4 and 5-star hotels and resorts along the coast for this event. Especially, Danang will build an APEC Park on 2/9 Street, Binh Hien ward, Hai Chau district, 3067 m2 in size.
Furthermore, to promote the image and culture of Danang to APEC member countries and tourists, Danang People’s Committee has assigned relevant departments and authorities to develop plans to communicate and promote Danang’s image as the host for APEC Summit Week in Peru (November, 2016), develop branding projects with Red-shanked Duoc Langur as the mascot of the of the city, make tourism promotional video clips, develop visit programs for delegates of member governments… and other entertainment programs as well as supporting events, promote and engage locals to become cultural ambassadors of the cities in the eyes of delegates and tourists coming to Danang, all to create the image of Danang as a friendly and welcoming destination.
APEC is the door for new cooperative opportunities to foster economic development with international partners. Danang being the host for many important events of APEC 2017 is the golden chaance for the young, dynamic and hospitable city to confirm its position in the global map. With the efforts of national and local governments and support of Danang businesses, Danang is hopeful for important achievements, creating a sustainable reputation and brand as a safe, friendly and attractive destination for domestic and international tourists.
