Functions for charset conversion in MYSQL

I have a PHP/MYSQL based application which stored arabic data in database and displays it back and it is running abs fine. It is using UTF8 and we have no problem in it.


NOw there is another Vb.net windows based desktop application which connects to the same MYSQL DB and fetches that data and displays it on a windows form but the arabic data is shown as garbage. The below image shows a view of what happens. When i change the charset to Windows 1256 in PHP app the data that is stored in MYSQL comes out fine on vb.net app as well.

rsidemos.com/sample/sample.png

Due to some constraint i cannot change the charset used at PHP/MYSQL and have to change the charset at the |vb.net end either while displaying data or using some MYSQL Function itself that converts the UTF8 data into windows 1256 and then displays on Vb.net Form.

Can anyone help in this?