Italy’s Ambassador to Vietnam Andrea Perugini has become the first foreigner to be successfully registered as the owner of a Thang Long dragon, a special souvenir to mark the capital city’s millennial anniversary.

The Ambassador said that he is very keen on Vietnamese traditional handicrafts, especially those made of bronze or silver. For him, the dragon is a meaningful present. The curves on its body remind him of challenges that he has tackled. Moreover, it also symbolises a new Vietnam with that has seen many positive changes in its race to catch up with the world.

Mr. Perugini confirmed that he will take the dragon to Italy once he finishes his term in Vietnam.

After a ceremony to paint the dragons’ eyes, the Ambassador along with 999 other owners will officially receive their dragons.

The steering board for the 1000^th anniversary of Thang Long-Hanoi has also ordered a number of dragons as gifts for its distinguished guests.

The board will host a live television programme to raise funds for the Vietnam Association of Victims of Agent Orange/Dioxin (VAVA) by selling 2 dragons coded 0001 and 1000 and bearing the signatures of Vietnamese leaders.

The programme will be broadcast from the Temple of Literature or the Thang Long Royal Citadel in September.