First Vietnamese intern group welcomed in Germany’s Leipzig city

Ambassador Vu Quang Minh (with red tie) takes a photo with Vietnamese driver interns in Germany (Photo: VNA)

This marks the first time Vietnam has dispatched apprentices to Germany to train as train and bus drivers, addressing critical workforce shortages in these sectors.

The welcoming ceremony was attended by Vietnamese Ambassador to Germany Vu Quang Minh and many local officials.

Under this pilot scheme, 14 apprentices will train with Leipzig's LVG, and another 14 will undergo training at St. Georg Hospital. This project stems from economic cooperation fostered by a business delegation from Leipzig to Vietnam earlier this year.

Deputy Mayor Bonew highlighted the enduring relationship between Leipzig and Vietnam, particularly noting the sister city partnership with Ho Chi Minh City. He attributed the arrival of the Vietnamese trainees to numerous visits and discussions between the two sides.

Meanwhile, Deputy Mayor Schülke lauded the significant contributions by Vietnamese workers to Leipzig’s economy, noting that over 30 apprentices have commenced vocational training in the city this year. This partnership not only reinforces the friendship between Germany and Vietnam but also strengthens Leipzig’s economy over the long term through the inclusion of dynamic and skilled young apprentices.

Ambassador Minh expressed pride in the positive reception of Vietnamese workers, emphasising the importance of professions such as train maintenance and driving, and nursing, which are crucial to both Vietnam and Germany. He encouraged the trainees to excel in their training and careers, assuring them of the embassy’s support in achieving their goals.

In addition to transport and health care, Vietnamese apprentices in Leipzig are receiving training in fields such as culinary arts, hospitality, and nursing./.