During this working visit to the United States, I am immensely grateful to the FORD Foundation for providing us with conducive conditions to gain a profound understanding of the situation. Despite the demanding and information-packed working sessions, along with a wealth of valuable materials, what stands out the most are the dedicated and thoughtful friends I have had the privilege to meet. While I cannot possibly enumerate all of the acquaintances I've made in America, I would like to sketch the profiles of three friends from three different nationalities, each possessing distinct personality traits that have left indelible and positive impressions on me.

MARTIN SULEMAN

The first among them is the genuine American, Professor Martin Sulman. From our initial encounter, I found myself captivated by his presence. At around 70 years old, with a modest stature, curly hair, and a beard touched by the elements, he walked with a slight limp and leaned on a cane. However, his appearance belied the spirit of youth that emanated from him. His thoughtfulness and resourcefulness, as he assisted us in organizing our belongings and preparing for our car journeys, made it seem as if he were much younger. Throughout our work trip, whether during evenings, busy periods, or while exploring the city, he was always by our side, offering careful guidance and companionship.

The FORD Foundation's documentation provides the following introduction to Professor Martin Sulman: "Martin Sulman is a professor in the School of Management at the University of Brighton, New York State University. Since 1985, he has served as the dean of the Department of Business Administration within the arts management program. Prior to assuming this role, he spent seven years as the coordinator of the theater management program at Ithaca University, New York. Before his career in education, Professor Sulman was an actor, theater director, and theater manager in the United States and Asia.

To this day, professor Martin Suleman continues to impart his knowledge in International Trade and strategic planning. His career is a fusion of his passion for both art and management, which he channels into his role as a consultant and lecturer for various arts organizations. These organizations encompass a wide spectrum, including symphony orchestras, museums, dance troupes, non-profit radio stations, opera houses, handicraft associations, and governmental bodies.

Additionally, he holds positions as a visiting lecturer specializing in strategic planning and arts marketing in Shanghai, Nantong, China, and Taiwan. His consulting portfolio extends to companies and government entities in Southern New York and Hong Kong.

Notably, rofessor Martin Suleman was honored with the Fulbrowai Lettzip Prize for his teaching in Hong Kong during the 1991-1992 academic year. In Hong Kong, he taught courses on strategic planning and trade policy at the University of Hong Kong, providing instruction in arts management for mid-level officials and offering specialized courses for senior arts managers. Furthermore, he chairs a committee dedicated to researching innovative strategies for supporting the arts within the field.

Prior to his academic career, Professor Martin Suleman served as the head of the secretariat of the treasurer's department for the Federal Mortgage Loan Association in Los Angeles. He also contributed to the field of international development by working in Vietnam and Thailand under the auspices of the United States Organization for International Development. His extensive experience led him to reside and travel throughout the Pacific region for a period of seven years.

Professor Martin Sulman holds a doctorate from Florida State university and an MBA from California University, Los Angeles, underscoring the depth of his education and life experiences. Despite his impressive background, he remains remarkably humble and unpretentious. He actively engaged in our sessions, listening attentively to presentations and observing art with a genuine curiosity akin to that of a lifelong learner.

During our interactions, Professor Sulman emphasized the importance of avoiding the wholesale importation of foreign methods and experiences into our own country. He recounted an anecdote from his past as an art student in London, where he questioned a teacher about the challenges Americans faced in staging Shakespearean productions. The teacher's response was a valuable lesson: "Americans must cease trying to imitate the British and must forge their own path. You, too, must find your unique approach."

Throughout our sessions, whether during presentations or tours, professor Sulman elucidated concepts that were not entirely clear to us. For instance, he provided insights into fundraising efforts, stating, "Some corporate sponsors engage not merely out of altruism but to mutually benefit from the association. It's a win-win game. I once sought sponsorship from the Cadillac car company, proposing to create a play tailored for an affluent audience, one that frequently drove luxury cars. I promised to prominently feature the company's name in the advertising. The company's representative agreed. Therefore, you must understand that seeking sponsorship requires skill—identifying the appropriate audience for sponsorship and aligning the play with their interests."

He frequently reminded us, "Regardless of the circumstances, you must maintain a passion for art!" For him, this passion was more valuable than money, serving as the key to success for those involved in the arts.

Despite his travels to Vietnam and Hong Kong, professor Sulman cherished the warm friendships he forged in these places. He fondly recounted an encounter with Mr. Vinh Cat, the former Director of the Hanoi Department of Culture, during his time in Hong Kong. Mr. Vinh Cat provided valuable information about the Thang Long puppet troupe, which successfully performed in Hong Kong. Reflecting on their conversation, Professor Sulman recalled sitting by the banks of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, sharing a beer and discussing the shared desire of Vietnamese people to use art as a means of connecting with the Western world. He emphasized his belief in the power of art for peaceful purposes.

Rich in affection and simplicity, many times to show his affection, he patted my shoulder with his thick hand and smiled kindly.

The day the group was preparing to leave the United States, you organized a farewell dinner for us at a Chinese restaurant in Chinatown. Before going to the restaurant, professor Martin Shulman told us in a very open voice: "Today is my wife's birthday. When we get to the restaurant, everyone should sing the song Happy Birthday in unison." Happy birthday!" We know that Professor Martin Sulman's wife is a Chinese woman living in Hong Kong. Perhaps the farewell meal ordered at the Chinese restaurant was also intended to show everyone's affection before her birthday? Through the sincere and earnest way professor Martin Sulman spoke about his wife, I think the two of them lived happily. Before the meal, on behalf of the group, I gave flowers and some Vietnamese gifts to celebrate the birthday of Mrs. Martin Su-luman. Both grandparents stood up, expressing both surprise and emotion.

At the end of the session, seeing the waiter come in and clean up the dishes and bring them out quite neatly, professor Martin Su-lu-man praised him and said:

- When I was young, I used to work as a waiter during summer vacations to pay for school, and was very good at it, carrying 5 cups of coffee in one hand. I once set a record when I carried 32 bowls of chicken soup on a tray without spilling, by pushing the stack of bowls forward a little and running like a whirlwind. I worked hard seven days a week, serving three meals so I could have tip money to use for my studies. At that time, the tuition fee for one semester was only 5 USD, but earning 5 USD was not easy at all. I say that to show that if we want to have skills, we have to practice a lot.

Bringing the conversation back to the present, rofessor Martin Suleman shared his thoughts:

"For many of us, this marked the beginning of a deeper mutual understanding. While Americans have heard much about the Vietnamese people, not everyone truly comprehends the Vietnamese culture and perspective. The arrival of the Vietnamese delegation at this time was met with great surprise. Even the security personnel, upon being introduced to your group as the Vietnamese delegation, displayed wide-eyed astonishment. This reaction stemmed from the fact that, following the tragic events of September 11, my institution alone witnessed the cancellation of plans by numerous foreign delegations to visit and collaborate. Your presence during this period has touched our hearts with your friendship and willingness to cooperate. You are approachable and amiable individuals, and I have found everyone in the group to be exceedingly friendly. I genuinely appreciate each one of you. Last week, we had a lot of enjoyable moments while working together."

With enthusiasm, he proceeded to offer guidance on the process of applying for funding:

"The success of this curriculum project can open doors to funding opportunities from other foundations, such as Rocket... It is crucial to take thorough notes and fully align the project's objectives. Other potential sponsors will evaluate the project's performance to gauge whether they can support you. Success begets further success."

Professor Suleman then shared a more personal reflection:

"The events of September 11 had a profound impact on me, evoking intense sadness and anger. I believe I need not explain; you all can understand my state of mind. I sincerely hope that I never have to witness such a tragedy again. I was deeply saddened and profoundly angered. When I regained my composure, I realized the need to stand up for myself and become stronger. After this event, there was even the necessity to learn how to forgive, as failing to do so might lead to a cycle of retaliation. Excessive anger can cloud one's judgment. It's important to know how to forgive."