HA NOI - Italian families who have adopted Vietnamese children attended a meeting in Rome yesterday to share experiences and learn more about Vietnamese culture.

50 families took part in the event, which was hosted by the Vietnamese embassy in Rome and the Italian Adoption Families Association.

Speaking at the event, Vietnamese ambassador to Italy Dang Khanh Thoai expressed his gratitude to the Italian families for their love and support of adopted Vietnamese children.

He stressed that Viet Nam would continue to co-operate closely with Italy in improving adoption procedures appropriate to the two countries' legal policies as well as hosting more cultural exchange events and discussions.

In response to Viet Nam's concerns, the association would carefully watch over adopted children and help them to learn about their origins and cultural heritage.

"I never stop thinking about Viet Nam and the people there even though I have been living in Italy for nearly 40 years," said Christian Appodia, a Vietnamese Italian doctor.

Italian police officer Gabriele Degrandi said he is very proud of his two daughters.

"Vietnamese children are so smart and kind-hearted, which has motivated me to raise my two Vietnamese daughters," he said.

At the meeting, adopted Vietnamese children and their families were introduced to the culture, traditions, folk-songs, landscapes and food of Viet Nam. --VNS.