During their visit to Hanoi University of Pharmacy on the afternoon of 17/10, the two spouses learned about the university's history, the value of traditional medicine, and Vietnam's rich medicinal resources, according to TTXVN.

Hanoi University of Pharmacy holds special significance in Vietnam-Switzerland relations, linked to Dr. Alexandre Yersin, a Swiss-French scientist born in 1863 in Vaud, President Guy Parmelin's home canton.

Dr. Yersin was the first principal of the Indochina Medical School, the predecessor of today's Hanoi University of Pharmacy and Hanoi Medical University, and a scientist who made important contributions to Vietnamese medicine.

The two spouses, both wearing traditional ao dai, were introduced to the university's over 120-year history, toured historical architectural spaces, and learned about Dr. Yersin's contributions to Vietnam and global medicine.

Mrs. Caroline Parmelin expressed interest in Dr. Yersin's work and scientific research in Vietnam, as well as the historical and architectural values preserved by the university.

The two spouses also heard introductions about Vietnamese traditional medicine, learning about medicinal plants, herbs, and traditional healthcare methods.

Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly shared insights into the Vietnamese tradition of using medicinal plants for healthcare, highlighting the diversity and richness of indigenous medicinal resources.

She emphasized the value of preserving, researching, and developing medicinal resources not only for public healthcare but also for creating livelihoods and improving the lives of people, especially in mountainous regions.

At the Institute of Medicinal Materials exhibition, the two spouses explored the process of researching, preserving, and developing Vietnamese medicinal plants, from seed sources and cultivation to processing into healthcare products.

Mrs. Caroline Parmelin expressed interest in Vietnamese medicinal resources, particularly Ngoc Linh ginseng, and noted similarities between the two countries in using herbs for healthcare and developing sustainable livelihoods for mountainous communities.

The two spouses then experienced making compress pillows from traditional herbs such as ginger, cinnamon, star anise, eucalyptus, and cassia seeds.

After completion, Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly presented Mrs. Caroline Parmelin with the herbal pillow she had made.

The two spouses then enjoyed herbal tea and traditional Vietnamese cakes.

Mrs. Ngo Phuong Ly introduced the diverse aspects of Vietnamese tea culture, as well as the connection between natural conditions, indigenous knowledge, and traditional products from various regions.

Swiss President Guy Parmelin and his spouse, Mrs. Caroline Parmelin, are on an official visit to Vietnam from 17-18/10. General Secretary and President To Lam held talks with President Parmelin this afternoon, emphasizing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, investment, and digital finance development.

Photo: *Giang Huy*