Swedish intern in Hanoi finds diplomacy experience, personal growth, second home in Vietnam

Flystam, 27, shared her reflections in a recent interview with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper during the final days of her five-month internship at the embassy's political and public diplomacy section in Hanoi.

She said the experience strengthened her interest in international relations, pushed her beyond her comfort zone, and helped her build meaningful connections that could contribute to future ties between Sweden and Vietnam.

Experiences in Vietnam–Sweden relations

At the Embassy of Sweden in Hanoi, Flystam followed current affairs, prepared reports, helped organize events, and contributed to communication and public diplomacy work.

Living in Hanoi, she was struck by the capital's rapid transformation, from infrastructure development to shifting social attitudes and ways of thinking.

She described Vietnam as being in an important phase of growth and said she felt fortunate to witness these changes first-hand.

Noting that Vietnam is not unfamiliar to people in Sweden, Flystam said the Southeast Asian country is often associated not only with historical narratives but also with its ongoing development and expanding opportunities for cooperation.

She added that bilateral ties between Sweden and Vietnam are entering a new stage, underpinned by long-standing diplomatic foundations and mutual trust.

Sweden was the first Western country to establish diplomatic relations with Vietnam in 1969, and Swedish companies have since steadily expanded their presence in the country, with more than 80 firms now operating there, she said.

From her experience, Flystam came to believe that people-to-people connections are just as important as formal diplomatic channels in strengthening relations between countries.

Highlighting the importance of learning about the shared history between Vietnam and Sweden, she noted that older generations in Sweden still retain strong memories of Vietnam.

She recalled that her grandparents' generation took part in protests against the war in Vietnam and later celebrated its end, describing these experiences as part of a collective memory passed down through families.

Internship fosters personal development

Flystam said her decision to come to Vietnam was intentional rather than coincidental.

As a political science student in Sweden, she had previously visited Vietnam twice as a tourist and developed a strong interest in the country.

She described Vietnam as very different from Sweden, yet easy to adapt to.

Her family and friends were not surprised by her decision to return for an internship, given her long-standing interest in the country.

When reflecting on her time in Vietnam, Flystam said there was no single defining moment.

Instead, she depicted it as a collection of small, everyday experiences that helped her overcome initial uncertainty and gradually adapt to life in the nation.

She acknowledged that cultural differences initially posed challenges, but living in Vietnam ultimately taught her to step outside her comfort zone and adapt more easily than she had expected.

The experience showed her that embracing unfamiliar environments is less daunting than she had thought and can be rewarding.

She added that the personal understanding she gained through living abroad would stay with her when she returns to Sweden.

Looking ahead, Flystam said her time in Vietnam had shaped her academic and career ambitions.

After completing her internship, she plans to return to Sweden to finish her studies and pursue a career in international relations.

Finding home away from home

Flystam said she would miss Vietnam's strong and distinctive coffee culture, adding that everyday life in the country had become one of the most memorable parts of her experience.

After five months in Vietnam, she will leave with more than memories of its coffee and daily rhythms.

She will also take home friendships, experiences, and a deep connection to a country thousands of kilometers from her homeland that has become her second home.

During her stay in Vietnam, Flystam traveled to several destinations, including Da Nang, Hoi An, Ha Long, and Ninh Binh.

She expressed particular admiration for Ho Chi Minh City, deeming it a large, vibrant, and highly international urban center.

Alongside her professional duties and travel, she developed a strong appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine.

She said she especially enjoyed dishes such as 'cha gio' (spring rolls) and 'dau hu sot ca' (tofu in tomato sauce), among other local specialties.

Flystam also emphasized the importance of personal relationships formed during her stay.

She said Vietnamese friends helped her better understand local culture and gain new perspectives on the country.

She encouraged young Vietnamese people to consider visiting Sweden if they have the opportunity.

The intern expressed hope of returning to Vietnam in the future, possibly in a different capacity at the Swedish Embassy.