The Ministry of Planning and Investment has held a meeting on 20 years of foreign investment in Vietnam. Binh Dinh Province People's Committee also held a meeting summarizing foreign investment activities in Binh Dinh.
Slow attraction, small-scaled projects
Vietnam's investment environment and policies were not synchronous in the 1987-1997 period. Binh Dinh was a central province having difficulties in attracting foreign direct investment (FDI) project owing to its limitations such as infrastructure or distance at that time.
It got the first FDI project in 1992 and during this time there were only seven projects worth US$30.5 million, of which four projects were revoked licenses.
Together with Vietnam's development, Binh Dinh has gradually improved its investment environment since 1998, attracting 31 FDI projects with the capital of $385 million.
Of FDI projects, there are not any large scaled ones with advanced technologies. Most focus on industrial production sector. Their positive effect on Binh Dinh's socio-economic development is, therefore, limited.
The foreign-invested sector accounted for below one percent and the industrial production value only surged by 2 percent.
Initial effects
FDI enterprises have created jobs for nearly 1,000 local people. Most enterprises effectively operate, particularly in afforestation and aquiculture, such as Quy Nhon Afforestation Co., Ltd or Vietnam-Malaysia Binh Dinh Minerals Joint Stock Company.
Initially, FDI projects have positively influenced the provincial economic structure. They contribute to the trade promotion, introducing Binh Dinh's potential abroad.
FDI projects are always considered as an important role in Binh Dinh's socio-economic development despite their limited contributions. They have advantages of capital, technologies, and experiences, promoting the development of both domestic and foreign sectors.
At present, some large-scaled projects have been attracted. When being conducted, they are expected to further social and economic activities.
Nguyen Bay (translated by Hong Quang) 17:32', 31/1/ 2008 (GMT+7)
Binh Dinh Newspapers
Showing posts with label My country - Quê tôi. Show all posts
Showing posts with label My country - Quê tôi. Show all posts
Saturday, 2 February 2008
Festival with unique features
The plan for Tay Son-Binh Dinh Festival has been revealed, proving efforts to hold a festival with unique cultural and historical features.
Unique features
The uniqueness of Tay Son-Binh Dinh Festival will be showed by key programs. The grand incense and flower offering at Tay Son Tam Kien shrine is, for example, a series of uninterrupted activities composed of four parts, of which the "King Quang Trung enters the temple" ceremony is expected to be the most impressive one.
At the ceremony, the image of three national heroes on howdahs accompanied by soldiers will be performed.
The opening ceremony will be impressively held, showing Binh Dinh's traditional cultural and historical values. It is directed by two well-known directors, that is, People's artist Vu Hoai and Le Quy Duong.
Two other programs considered as the highlight of the festival include the night festival on Thi Nai lagoon and beauty contest. The nigh festival is a gala night of flower garlands and coloured lanterns. The beauty contest will be held for "queen" coming from Binh Dinh and other provinces. The "only-in-Binh Dinh beauty contest" aims to honor the women's beauty, according to Duong.
The second international festival of Vietnam traditional martial arts, the final Dao Tan classical drama competition, and other activities will also be involved in Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival.
"Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival is held by Binh Dinh Province People's Committee but it will be of national magnitude. Many famous artists, both domestic and foreign, will be invited to perform at the festival," said Van Trong Hung, Director of Binh Dinh Department of Culture and Information cum vice head of organising committee.
"Speed up" preparations
Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival is going to take place in the next six months. All preparations need promoting now. Contents of main programs will be focused on to clearly perform unique features of Binh Dinh culture.
Tour guides and taxi drivers have been trained. All restaurants and hotels were reminded about the prices, food safety, and services.
The propaganda plays an important role in the success of the festival. It has, however, only been started. There is not much information about the festival on the mass media.
The propaganda on the mass media and other measures should be further promoted.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang)16:51', 29/1/ 2008 (GMT+7)
Binh Dinh Newspapers
Unique features
The uniqueness of Tay Son-Binh Dinh Festival will be showed by key programs. The grand incense and flower offering at Tay Son Tam Kien shrine is, for example, a series of uninterrupted activities composed of four parts, of which the "King Quang Trung enters the temple" ceremony is expected to be the most impressive one.
At the ceremony, the image of three national heroes on howdahs accompanied by soldiers will be performed.
The opening ceremony will be impressively held, showing Binh Dinh's traditional cultural and historical values. It is directed by two well-known directors, that is, People's artist Vu Hoai and Le Quy Duong.
Two other programs considered as the highlight of the festival include the night festival on Thi Nai lagoon and beauty contest. The nigh festival is a gala night of flower garlands and coloured lanterns. The beauty contest will be held for "queen" coming from Binh Dinh and other provinces. The "only-in-Binh Dinh beauty contest" aims to honor the women's beauty, according to Duong.
The second international festival of Vietnam traditional martial arts, the final Dao Tan classical drama competition, and other activities will also be involved in Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival.
"Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival is held by Binh Dinh Province People's Committee but it will be of national magnitude. Many famous artists, both domestic and foreign, will be invited to perform at the festival," said Van Trong Hung, Director of Binh Dinh Department of Culture and Information cum vice head of organising committee.
"Speed up" preparations
Tay Son-Binh Dinh 2008 Festival is going to take place in the next six months. All preparations need promoting now. Contents of main programs will be focused on to clearly perform unique features of Binh Dinh culture.
Tour guides and taxi drivers have been trained. All restaurants and hotels were reminded about the prices, food safety, and services.
The propaganda plays an important role in the success of the festival. It has, however, only been started. There is not much information about the festival on the mass media.
The propaganda on the mass media and other measures should be further promoted.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang)16:51', 29/1/ 2008 (GMT+7)
Binh Dinh Newspapers
Wednesday, 30 January 2008
Major festivals in Vietnam
Festivals are typical folklore cultural activities organized in all regions of Vietnam. Such festivals bring peace to the heart and mind of the Vietnamese people, wipe out their pressures from daily life, and bring them closer to nature and the motherland.
As an agricultural country, most Vietnamese festivals are held during leisure times, which are spring and autumn. There are also national festivals for all Vietnamese people, including the Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan), July Full-Moon, August Full-Moon or Hung Temple festivals.
The Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan): the Lunar New Year is the biggest festival of the entire Vietnamese nation. This is the time for the whole family to get together and enjoy traditional food, visit relatives, friends and colleagues and wish them a happy new year. As perceived by all people, Tet is the end of the old year, the wrap-up of misfortunes to open up a new year of good opportunities. The New Year Eve is the most sacred moment when all family members worship and pay tribute to genii and ancestors. Apart from the New Year Eve Worshiping, other traditional rites such as "the first visitor of the Year", "buds picking" and "lucky money" are still practiced today.
Hung King National Worshipping Festival: March 10th of the Lunar Calendar is the day of Hung King National Worshipping Festival. This event is celebrated every where in the country and abroad where there are large Vietnamese communities. The major celebration is held in Phu Tho, the first capital of Vietnam under Van Lang Dynasty and the location of the Temple for 18 Hung Kings. During this event, traditional offerings are prepared, including lanterns, incense sticks, wine, betel, areca-nut, water, Chung and Day (Square and Round Sticky Rice) Cakes. In recent years, this event has been considered the National Festival with high formalities, including official music, official costumes and the participation of officials of the Party, State, Government, and Phu Tho province.
The July Full-Moon Festival (Trung Nguyen Festival): According to Buddhism, on this day, spirits of the dead come to the living world to enjoy offerings. Most families hold worshiping rites for ancestors. Upon the end of the rite, votive papers are burnt for spirits of the dead. Other offerings, including soup, parched rice, dry pancake and fruits are also prepared for wandering spirits, who are not worshiped by relatives. After the rite, offerings are given to the children as a wish of luck.
The August Full-Moon Festival: This Festival is held mainly for children. Vietnamese families, especially those with little children, always prepare for this festival. On the night of the Festival, most families have a tray of specialties for members to get around and enjoy the Moon's beauty. The specialties are mainly fruits and confectionery formed like animals. During the festival, adults usually buy toys for children. The atmosphere of the festival night is enjoyable with the laughter of children, the light of the Moon, lanterns, and candles of many kinds and children’s dancing and singing, such as Lantern Carrying Dance or Lion dance, etc.
Copyright: Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ref. Quê Hương
As an agricultural country, most Vietnamese festivals are held during leisure times, which are spring and autumn. There are also national festivals for all Vietnamese people, including the Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan), July Full-Moon, August Full-Moon or Hung Temple festivals.
The Lunar New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan): the Lunar New Year is the biggest festival of the entire Vietnamese nation. This is the time for the whole family to get together and enjoy traditional food, visit relatives, friends and colleagues and wish them a happy new year. As perceived by all people, Tet is the end of the old year, the wrap-up of misfortunes to open up a new year of good opportunities. The New Year Eve is the most sacred moment when all family members worship and pay tribute to genii and ancestors. Apart from the New Year Eve Worshiping, other traditional rites such as "the first visitor of the Year", "buds picking" and "lucky money" are still practiced today.
Hung King National Worshipping Festival: March 10th of the Lunar Calendar is the day of Hung King National Worshipping Festival. This event is celebrated every where in the country and abroad where there are large Vietnamese communities. The major celebration is held in Phu Tho, the first capital of Vietnam under Van Lang Dynasty and the location of the Temple for 18 Hung Kings. During this event, traditional offerings are prepared, including lanterns, incense sticks, wine, betel, areca-nut, water, Chung and Day (Square and Round Sticky Rice) Cakes. In recent years, this event has been considered the National Festival with high formalities, including official music, official costumes and the participation of officials of the Party, State, Government, and Phu Tho province.
The July Full-Moon Festival (Trung Nguyen Festival): According to Buddhism, on this day, spirits of the dead come to the living world to enjoy offerings. Most families hold worshiping rites for ancestors. Upon the end of the rite, votive papers are burnt for spirits of the dead. Other offerings, including soup, parched rice, dry pancake and fruits are also prepared for wandering spirits, who are not worshiped by relatives. After the rite, offerings are given to the children as a wish of luck.
The August Full-Moon Festival: This Festival is held mainly for children. Vietnamese families, especially those with little children, always prepare for this festival. On the night of the Festival, most families have a tray of specialties for members to get around and enjoy the Moon's beauty. The specialties are mainly fruits and confectionery formed like animals. During the festival, adults usually buy toys for children. The atmosphere of the festival night is enjoyable with the laughter of children, the light of the Moon, lanterns, and candles of many kinds and children’s dancing and singing, such as Lantern Carrying Dance or Lion dance, etc.
Copyright: Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Ref. Quê Hương
Friday, 25 January 2008
Ha Long Bay hits top ten in natural world wonders bid
The World Heritage Site Ha Long Bay now ranks ninth among some 200 other nominees in the bid to become one of the seven natural wonders of the world, announced the official website www.new7wonders.com of the New Open World Organisation.
Ha Long Bay was placed tenth on January 17 and inched up a place to ninth on January 18.
One month ago, Ha Long Bay was placed sixth in the list. To support the vote, the northern province of Quang Ninh will hold a tourism week with the theme of “Ha Long Bay Heritage site” on May 2008.
(VOV) Ref. Tạp chí Quê hương
Ha Long Bay was placed tenth on January 17 and inched up a place to ninth on January 18.
One month ago, Ha Long Bay was placed sixth in the list. To support the vote, the northern province of Quang Ninh will hold a tourism week with the theme of “Ha Long Bay Heritage site” on May 2008.
(VOV) Ref. Tạp chí Quê hương
Aspects of Vietnam national development
Vietnam is located in a region considered a cradle of mankind, one of the earliest agricultural centres practicing wet rice farming, where the stone and metallurgical revolutions took place. On the basis of socio-economic development in the time of the Dong Son culture and given the struggle with nature and against aggression, Van Lang State, the first State in Vietnam was established in the 7th century B.C.
Thanks to their hard work and creativeness, Van Lang (and then Au Lac) residents created a civilization that influenced the entire Southeast Asian region. Together with the formation of the first State in Vietnam’s history was the evolution of a diverse economy and advanced culture known as the Red River civilization (or Dong Son civilization) symbolized by Dong Son bronze drum, a heritage reflecting the quintessence of the lifestyle, traditions and culture of the ancient Vietnamese.
In the cause of national building, the Vietnamese also had to cope with various foreign aggressions. During 12 centuries from the resistance against the Qin dynasty in the 3rd century B.C until late 20th century, the Vietnamese had to launch hundreds of struggles and uprisings against foreign aggression. The tactic, as stated in the Proclamation of Victory over the Wu “Binh Ngo Dai Cao,” “…Relying on surprises, we placed our weak forces before much stronger ones; In skillful ambushes, our few troops destroyed large units,” has become the rule of thumb in the wars of safeguarding the Fatherland of the Vietnamese.
Since the 2nd century B.C, Vietnam had been dominated by different Chinese dynasties for more than a thousand years. During this period, the existence of the nation had been challenged which helped give rise to the spirit of indomitability and staunchness of the Vietnamese in the struggle to maintain the nation’s vitality, preserve and build on the quintessence of its culture and the determination to gain national independence.
Despite many vicissitudes, from Van Lang, Au Lac to Van Xuan, Dai Co Viet and Dai Viet, the Vietnamese nation continued to develop in all fields, reflecting its strong vitality and unceasing evolution.
A typical feature of Vietnamese culture is the village culture. It is Vietnamese villages that have nurtured and fostered the quintessence of the traditional culture, the spirit of unity among the Vietnamese in the struggle against the domination of the North and the policy of assimilation of Northern dynasties to gain national independence, maintaining the nation’s traditions and cultures.
The Bach Dang victory in 938 opened up a new era in Vietnam’s history – the era of development of an independent feudal state, national construction and defense. As a result, the centralized-administration state was established under the Ngo (938-965), Dinh (969-979) and earlier Le (980 - 1009) dynasties.
Then, Vietnam entered the period of renaissance and development under the Ly (1009-1226), Tran (1226-1400), Ho (1400-1407) and Le So (1428-1527) dynasties. Dai Viet, the name of the country under the Ly-Tran-Le So dynasties, was known as a prosperous country in Asia. This period marked the golden age of Vietnam’s history. Economically, this period saw the development of agriculture and irrigation (with the construction of the Red River dike) and the formation of traditional handicrafts. In terms of religion, Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism were considered the three co-existing official religions exerting great influence on people’s life. One important achievement in the Ly-Tran dynasties was the introduction of Nom scripts, Vietnam’s own writing system based on the reform of Chinese Han scripts. In addition, this period also marked the splendid development of education, science, culture, art, history and law etc. (such as the establishment of Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam, the first university of Vietnam, the introduction of Hong Duc Code and Complete History of Dai Viet etc.) This period was called the Civilized Age of Dai Viet. Thang Long (the old name of Hanoi capital) was officially recognized as the imperial city of Dai Viet according to the Proclamation on the transfer of the capital to Hanoi in 1010 by Ly Thai To.
From the 16th century, the backwardness and weakness of the feudal regime under Confucius ideology were revealed, feudalism fell into a decline. While many nation states in Europe were moving to capitalism, Dai Viet was bogged down in internal wars and divisions, which heavily impeded the country’s evolution despite certain developments in the economy and culture, the establishment of towns and ports and the growth of trade and exchanges between the 16th and 18th century.
In the 19th century, Western capitalist countries entered the period of imperialism and colonialism. Through missionaries and trade, the French gradually dominated Vietnam. For the first time in history, the Vietnamese nation had to cope with the invasion of a Western country. In that context, some Vietnamese intellectuals were aware of the need to carry out reforms in an effort to bring the country out of stagnation and save national independence. Many plans of reform were proposed, yet rejected by the Nguyen dynasty. Subsequently, the country was driven into backwardness and deadlock. Vietnam became a semi-feudal colony for nearly 100 years from 1858 to 1945.
After setting up the colonist rule in Vietnam, the French colonialists quickly began large-scale exploitation in the country. Capitalist production relations infiltrated in Vietnam, stimulating the formation and evolution of internal capitalist factors, and as a result, narrowing and breaking up the existing feudal production relations. Vietnam’s economy thus moved from a backward and self-sufficient economy to a colonized one totally controlled by the French capitalists. A new social structure evolved along the line of capitalism, and subsequently the division between landlords and farmers was deepened while new forces, such as the working class, the bourgeoisies and petit bourgeoisies gradually came into being. Eventually, the struggle against the French colonialists was initiated by two forces i.e. the bourgeoisies (represented by Vietnam Quoc Dan Dang and Yen Bai revolt in early 1930) and the proletarians led by the Communist Party of Vietnam.
The formation of the Communist Party of Vietnam marked the prevailing strength of the working class and revolutionary movements led by the proletarians. In August 1945, under the leadership of the Communist Party headed by Nguyen Ai Quoc (later known as President Ho Chi Minh), the Vietnamese people and the Armed Propaganda Unit for National Liberation (now the People’s Army) successfully launched a general uprising to seize power. With the Proclamation of Independence on 2nd September 1945, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam came into being.
The globe-shaking victory of Dien Bien Phu (May 1954) and the Geneva Accord (July 1954) put an end to the war of resistance against the French colonialists, opening up a new era of independence and freedom for the Vietnamese nation in which North Vietnam embarked upon the transitional period towards socialism. According to the Geneva Agreement, South Vietnam was under the temporary control of the French and the Americans in the run-up to the general elections. Nevertheless, the general elections could never be held due to the interference of the United States. The Republic of South Vietnam headed by Ngo Dinh Diem was established by the United States. Vietnam continued to be divided for more than 20 years.
Between 1954 and 1975, Vietnam had to fight another war for national liberation and unification. With untold hardships brought out for the Vietnamese people to bear, the war came to an end following the victory of the historic Ho Chi Minh Operation in 1975. Since then, the unified Vietnam has ushered into a new era of peace, unification and national construction.
However, in the first ten years of this period, many socio-economic targets were not achieved due to both internal and external reasons. Vietnam’s economy fell into crisis and stagnation and people’s lives were difficult.
At the 6th Congress of the Communist Party in 1986, Doi Moi (reform) policy was launched with focus on economic reform. This marked an important milestone in the new stage of development of the Vietnamese nation. Doi Moi policy was consistently reaffirmed throughout the later Party Congresses. With the implementation of four five-year socio-economic development plans, Vietnam, from a food importing country, has become the second largest rice exporter in the world. Vietnam also exports a lot of other commodities with well-known brands. The economy has attained high growth rate since late 20th century and early years of the 21st century, people’s lives have been significantly improved; social policy received greater attention, the legal system has become increasingly complete and social management based on the rule of law put into place.
Looking back at the formation and development of the Vietnamese nation, we can see that patriotism, self-reliance, tradition of unity and the willpower to fight for the righteous cause of the nation are the most important features and the moral standards of the Vietnamese. The tradition of industriousness, creativeness and patience originated from the life full of hardship of the Vietnamese people. The need to stand united to cope with difficulties and challenges has created close bonds between the people and the nature and among the people in the family and in the community in the family-village-nation relations. Throughout history, the Vietnamese people have been characterized by the traditions of mutual assistance, ethic-based lifestyle, benevolence, one-mindedness and sharing of hardships in needy times, flexible ways of behaviour, the tradition of eagerness to learn, respect for righteousness and tolerance. These are the powerful and endless endogenous strengths for the Vietnamese nation to embark on the cause of national construction towards the goals of strong country, prosperous people, just, democratic and advanced society.
Copyright: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ref. Tạp chí Quê hương
Thanks to their hard work and creativeness, Van Lang (and then Au Lac) residents created a civilization that influenced the entire Southeast Asian region. Together with the formation of the first State in Vietnam’s history was the evolution of a diverse economy and advanced culture known as the Red River civilization (or Dong Son civilization) symbolized by Dong Son bronze drum, a heritage reflecting the quintessence of the lifestyle, traditions and culture of the ancient Vietnamese.
In the cause of national building, the Vietnamese also had to cope with various foreign aggressions. During 12 centuries from the resistance against the Qin dynasty in the 3rd century B.C until late 20th century, the Vietnamese had to launch hundreds of struggles and uprisings against foreign aggression. The tactic, as stated in the Proclamation of Victory over the Wu “Binh Ngo Dai Cao,” “…Relying on surprises, we placed our weak forces before much stronger ones; In skillful ambushes, our few troops destroyed large units,” has become the rule of thumb in the wars of safeguarding the Fatherland of the Vietnamese.
Since the 2nd century B.C, Vietnam had been dominated by different Chinese dynasties for more than a thousand years. During this period, the existence of the nation had been challenged which helped give rise to the spirit of indomitability and staunchness of the Vietnamese in the struggle to maintain the nation’s vitality, preserve and build on the quintessence of its culture and the determination to gain national independence.
Despite many vicissitudes, from Van Lang, Au Lac to Van Xuan, Dai Co Viet and Dai Viet, the Vietnamese nation continued to develop in all fields, reflecting its strong vitality and unceasing evolution.
A typical feature of Vietnamese culture is the village culture. It is Vietnamese villages that have nurtured and fostered the quintessence of the traditional culture, the spirit of unity among the Vietnamese in the struggle against the domination of the North and the policy of assimilation of Northern dynasties to gain national independence, maintaining the nation’s traditions and cultures.
The Bach Dang victory in 938 opened up a new era in Vietnam’s history – the era of development of an independent feudal state, national construction and defense. As a result, the centralized-administration state was established under the Ngo (938-965), Dinh (969-979) and earlier Le (980 - 1009) dynasties.
Then, Vietnam entered the period of renaissance and development under the Ly (1009-1226), Tran (1226-1400), Ho (1400-1407) and Le So (1428-1527) dynasties. Dai Viet, the name of the country under the Ly-Tran-Le So dynasties, was known as a prosperous country in Asia. This period marked the golden age of Vietnam’s history. Economically, this period saw the development of agriculture and irrigation (with the construction of the Red River dike) and the formation of traditional handicrafts. In terms of religion, Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism were considered the three co-existing official religions exerting great influence on people’s life. One important achievement in the Ly-Tran dynasties was the introduction of Nom scripts, Vietnam’s own writing system based on the reform of Chinese Han scripts. In addition, this period also marked the splendid development of education, science, culture, art, history and law etc. (such as the establishment of Van Mieu - Quoc Tu Giam, the first university of Vietnam, the introduction of Hong Duc Code and Complete History of Dai Viet etc.) This period was called the Civilized Age of Dai Viet. Thang Long (the old name of Hanoi capital) was officially recognized as the imperial city of Dai Viet according to the Proclamation on the transfer of the capital to Hanoi in 1010 by Ly Thai To.
From the 16th century, the backwardness and weakness of the feudal regime under Confucius ideology were revealed, feudalism fell into a decline. While many nation states in Europe were moving to capitalism, Dai Viet was bogged down in internal wars and divisions, which heavily impeded the country’s evolution despite certain developments in the economy and culture, the establishment of towns and ports and the growth of trade and exchanges between the 16th and 18th century.
In the 19th century, Western capitalist countries entered the period of imperialism and colonialism. Through missionaries and trade, the French gradually dominated Vietnam. For the first time in history, the Vietnamese nation had to cope with the invasion of a Western country. In that context, some Vietnamese intellectuals were aware of the need to carry out reforms in an effort to bring the country out of stagnation and save national independence. Many plans of reform were proposed, yet rejected by the Nguyen dynasty. Subsequently, the country was driven into backwardness and deadlock. Vietnam became a semi-feudal colony for nearly 100 years from 1858 to 1945.
After setting up the colonist rule in Vietnam, the French colonialists quickly began large-scale exploitation in the country. Capitalist production relations infiltrated in Vietnam, stimulating the formation and evolution of internal capitalist factors, and as a result, narrowing and breaking up the existing feudal production relations. Vietnam’s economy thus moved from a backward and self-sufficient economy to a colonized one totally controlled by the French capitalists. A new social structure evolved along the line of capitalism, and subsequently the division between landlords and farmers was deepened while new forces, such as the working class, the bourgeoisies and petit bourgeoisies gradually came into being. Eventually, the struggle against the French colonialists was initiated by two forces i.e. the bourgeoisies (represented by Vietnam Quoc Dan Dang and Yen Bai revolt in early 1930) and the proletarians led by the Communist Party of Vietnam.
The formation of the Communist Party of Vietnam marked the prevailing strength of the working class and revolutionary movements led by the proletarians. In August 1945, under the leadership of the Communist Party headed by Nguyen Ai Quoc (later known as President Ho Chi Minh), the Vietnamese people and the Armed Propaganda Unit for National Liberation (now the People’s Army) successfully launched a general uprising to seize power. With the Proclamation of Independence on 2nd September 1945, the Democratic Republic of Vietnam came into being.
The globe-shaking victory of Dien Bien Phu (May 1954) and the Geneva Accord (July 1954) put an end to the war of resistance against the French colonialists, opening up a new era of independence and freedom for the Vietnamese nation in which North Vietnam embarked upon the transitional period towards socialism. According to the Geneva Agreement, South Vietnam was under the temporary control of the French and the Americans in the run-up to the general elections. Nevertheless, the general elections could never be held due to the interference of the United States. The Republic of South Vietnam headed by Ngo Dinh Diem was established by the United States. Vietnam continued to be divided for more than 20 years.
Between 1954 and 1975, Vietnam had to fight another war for national liberation and unification. With untold hardships brought out for the Vietnamese people to bear, the war came to an end following the victory of the historic Ho Chi Minh Operation in 1975. Since then, the unified Vietnam has ushered into a new era of peace, unification and national construction.
However, in the first ten years of this period, many socio-economic targets were not achieved due to both internal and external reasons. Vietnam’s economy fell into crisis and stagnation and people’s lives were difficult.
At the 6th Congress of the Communist Party in 1986, Doi Moi (reform) policy was launched with focus on economic reform. This marked an important milestone in the new stage of development of the Vietnamese nation. Doi Moi policy was consistently reaffirmed throughout the later Party Congresses. With the implementation of four five-year socio-economic development plans, Vietnam, from a food importing country, has become the second largest rice exporter in the world. Vietnam also exports a lot of other commodities with well-known brands. The economy has attained high growth rate since late 20th century and early years of the 21st century, people’s lives have been significantly improved; social policy received greater attention, the legal system has become increasingly complete and social management based on the rule of law put into place.
Looking back at the formation and development of the Vietnamese nation, we can see that patriotism, self-reliance, tradition of unity and the willpower to fight for the righteous cause of the nation are the most important features and the moral standards of the Vietnamese. The tradition of industriousness, creativeness and patience originated from the life full of hardship of the Vietnamese people. The need to stand united to cope with difficulties and challenges has created close bonds between the people and the nature and among the people in the family and in the community in the family-village-nation relations. Throughout history, the Vietnamese people have been characterized by the traditions of mutual assistance, ethic-based lifestyle, benevolence, one-mindedness and sharing of hardships in needy times, flexible ways of behaviour, the tradition of eagerness to learn, respect for righteousness and tolerance. These are the powerful and endless endogenous strengths for the Vietnamese nation to embark on the cause of national construction towards the goals of strong country, prosperous people, just, democratic and advanced society.
Copyright: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Ref. Tạp chí Quê hương
Thursday, 24 January 2008
Quang Trung Museum: home for Tay Son's treasures
14:47', 17/12/ 2007 (GMT+7)
A ceremony was held on December 15 to mark the 30th anniversary of establishment of Quang Trung Museum. During 30 years, Quang Trung Museum has been considered as the home for Tay Son dynasty's treasures.
Preserve "Tay Son dynasty's treasures"
Tourists from Ho Chi Minh City visit Quang Trung Museum. Photo N.T
A ceremony was held on December 15 to mark the 30th anniversary of establishment of Quang Trung Museum. During 30 years, Quang Trung Museum has been considered as the home for Tay Son dynasty's treasures.
Preserve "Tay Son dynasty's treasures"
Tourists from Ho Chi Minh City visit Quang Trung Museum. Photo N.T
It took 30 years to collect more than 11,057 items and scientific documents displayed at Quang Trung Museum now. They have been collected from many provinces where there is trace of Tay Son dynasty.
"It wasn't easy to persuade those who were keeping items originated from Tay Son's dynasty such as conferring decree, bronze bell, and cannon because they kept them as their own treasures," said director of Quang Trung Museum.
The discovery of a storehouse of coins in Cat Tien Commune of Phu Cat District in 1998, for example, was a memorable event owing to its great value. When knowing that there were many jars of coin found, the staff of Quang Trung Museum went to Cat Tien at once and were really happy to know thousands of coins casted under dynasties of Kings Thai Duc, Quang Trung, and Canh Thinh.
Also, thanks to Vietnamese embassies and other relationship, many antiques were collected from foreign countries. A troupe of artists was formed, helping visitors know more about Tay Son dynasty and traditional martial arts by performing the war drums.
And better
Quang Trung Museum is now being expanded. Over VND18 billion has been invested in upgrading the museum. A complex of vestiges and landscape is expected to be built on an area of 16 hectares.
Also, other items such as the square, flower garden, temples to Bui Thi Xuan and Vo Van Dung will be built and restored.
Thanks to the sponsorship, cultural works like statue of King Quang Trung, statue of three Tay Son's national heroes, Bana cultural communal house, and Canh Thinh kettle drum make the museum become more beautiful.
It is believed that Quang Trung Museum would continue developing, becoming a center for researching the history of Tay Son dynasty.
Ngoc Tu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/land-people/2007/12/52250/)
"It wasn't easy to persuade those who were keeping items originated from Tay Son's dynasty such as conferring decree, bronze bell, and cannon because they kept them as their own treasures," said director of Quang Trung Museum.
The discovery of a storehouse of coins in Cat Tien Commune of Phu Cat District in 1998, for example, was a memorable event owing to its great value. When knowing that there were many jars of coin found, the staff of Quang Trung Museum went to Cat Tien at once and were really happy to know thousands of coins casted under dynasties of Kings Thai Duc, Quang Trung, and Canh Thinh.
Also, thanks to Vietnamese embassies and other relationship, many antiques were collected from foreign countries. A troupe of artists was formed, helping visitors know more about Tay Son dynasty and traditional martial arts by performing the war drums.
And better
Quang Trung Museum is now being expanded. Over VND18 billion has been invested in upgrading the museum. A complex of vestiges and landscape is expected to be built on an area of 16 hectares.
Also, other items such as the square, flower garden, temples to Bui Thi Xuan and Vo Van Dung will be built and restored.
Thanks to the sponsorship, cultural works like statue of King Quang Trung, statue of three Tay Son's national heroes, Bana cultural communal house, and Canh Thinh kettle drum make the museum become more beautiful.
It is believed that Quang Trung Museum would continue developing, becoming a center for researching the history of Tay Son dynasty.
Ngoc Tu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/land-people/2007/12/52250/)
Petec Mart project kicked off
17:23', 15/1/ 2008 (GMT+7)
Petec Binh Dinh Joint Stock Company (Petec Bidico) kicked off the first phase of Petec Bidico Trade Center (Petec Mart) in Quy Nhon City on January 15. Thuy Vi interviewed the general director of Petec Bidico Nguyen Trong Phat about the project.
Petec Binh Dinh Joint Stock Company (Petec Bidico) kicked off the first phase of Petec Bidico Trade Center (Petec Mart) in Quy Nhon City on January 15. Thuy Vi interviewed the general director of Petec Bidico Nguyen Trong Phat about the project.
Petec Mart. Photo B.L
Q: Why did Petec Bidico decide to invest in Petec Mart project?
A: Binh Dinh has the potential to develop the retail market which is very popular in Vietnam at present. Nhon Hoi Economic Zone and other industrial clusters have attracted more and more investors. The infrastructure for the economic development is strongly invested. Also, Quy Nhon City is expected to become a center of the key economic zone for Central region.
Petec Mart is, therefore, expected to partly contribute to the development in Binh Dinh when it is fully operational. A goods distribution system will be formed, meeting the people's requirements.
All above-mentioned factors helped us decide to build Petec Mart with the hope that it will benefit not only the company but Binh Dinh's trade activities.
Q: How about the scale of project?
A: The 7-storey Petec Mart worth nearly VND30 billion plans to be built on an area of 1,700 sq.m. In the first phase, four storeys including one basement, one ground floor, and two other floors are expected to be in use by late 2008.
The second phase will be used for the construction of offices for rent and halls for conference.
We are concerned of not only infrastructure but human factor for this is a modern building. At present, the staff are being trained to work at Petec Mart.
Q: Could you talk more about the operation of Petec Mart when it is completed?
A: We carefully analyzed the statistics for business. The population of Quy Nhon City is more than 500,000 people who will be potential customers for self-selected and electronic products.
Petec Mart plans to sell high quality products, so distributors will be carefully selected. We eye well-known distributors such as Metro Cash and Carry in Da Nang, PP Center, and other food manufacturers.
Petec Mart will be designed as a modern trade center with advanced technologies. The business at each storey will be appropriately arranged to meet customers' demand for shopping.
Petec Mart is expected to play an important role in our business strategy. It can be considered as a driving force to diversify measures of distribution and expand the market. Thanks to this, we hope to develop kinds of services, typically offices for rent. Petec Mart will also provide more choices for the people and tourists to Binh Dinh when they go shopping.
We do believe that Petec Mart would create more jobs and contribute to the local budget. More significantly, it is a turning point in the development of Petec Bidico.
We plan to join the securities market in the coming time. The effective business, therefore, means that we could get the belief of shareholders, partners, and local authorities.
Thuy Vi (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/business/2008/1/53632/)
Q: Why did Petec Bidico decide to invest in Petec Mart project?
A: Binh Dinh has the potential to develop the retail market which is very popular in Vietnam at present. Nhon Hoi Economic Zone and other industrial clusters have attracted more and more investors. The infrastructure for the economic development is strongly invested. Also, Quy Nhon City is expected to become a center of the key economic zone for Central region.
Petec Mart is, therefore, expected to partly contribute to the development in Binh Dinh when it is fully operational. A goods distribution system will be formed, meeting the people's requirements.
All above-mentioned factors helped us decide to build Petec Mart with the hope that it will benefit not only the company but Binh Dinh's trade activities.
Q: How about the scale of project?
A: The 7-storey Petec Mart worth nearly VND30 billion plans to be built on an area of 1,700 sq.m. In the first phase, four storeys including one basement, one ground floor, and two other floors are expected to be in use by late 2008.
The second phase will be used for the construction of offices for rent and halls for conference.
We are concerned of not only infrastructure but human factor for this is a modern building. At present, the staff are being trained to work at Petec Mart.
Q: Could you talk more about the operation of Petec Mart when it is completed?
A: We carefully analyzed the statistics for business. The population of Quy Nhon City is more than 500,000 people who will be potential customers for self-selected and electronic products.
Petec Mart plans to sell high quality products, so distributors will be carefully selected. We eye well-known distributors such as Metro Cash and Carry in Da Nang, PP Center, and other food manufacturers.
Petec Mart will be designed as a modern trade center with advanced technologies. The business at each storey will be appropriately arranged to meet customers' demand for shopping.
Petec Mart is expected to play an important role in our business strategy. It can be considered as a driving force to diversify measures of distribution and expand the market. Thanks to this, we hope to develop kinds of services, typically offices for rent. Petec Mart will also provide more choices for the people and tourists to Binh Dinh when they go shopping.
We do believe that Petec Mart would create more jobs and contribute to the local budget. More significantly, it is a turning point in the development of Petec Bidico.
We plan to join the securities market in the coming time. The effective business, therefore, means that we could get the belief of shareholders, partners, and local authorities.
Thuy Vi (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/business/2008/1/53632/)
More findings at Duong Long towers
17:3', 8/11/ 2007 (GMT+7)
Binh Dinh Museum and the Southern Social Sciences Institute’s Archaeology Research Centre held the second archaeological excavation of Duong Long towers in Tay Binh Commune of Tay Son District. The excavation unearthed many vestiges.
Foundations clearly identified
Following the findings in 2006, the second excavation was mainly carried out in the south and east areas of the towers. At the east area of the south tower, archaeologists found a three-layer earth foundation. The first layer is a mix of broken bricks and brick powder, the second is made of macadam, and the third is a laterid gravel one which is thought to be the original surface.
In the east of the middle tower, a 10 m-length brick wall was discovered, running parallel to the wall found in 2006. Two shorter brick lines with similar structure were unearthed on the opposite side. At the end of two lines are vestiges of two brick pillars leaning to the gate.
Along two walls there are many pieces of broken tiles and terra-cotta. Two walls are, therefore, said to be vestiges of a house in front of the towers or a corridor used for placing statues.
The excavation showed Duong Long towers are a cluster of three towers with other architectural works involved, creating a unique complex. Results play an important role for the upcoming restoration.
Unique features recognized
Architectural style of Mam or Binh Dinh tower ages within the 11th – 14th centuries, according to Champa architectural style formed by Ph.Stern.
French scholars only based on relics collected at Mam and Canh Tien towers to form the style. Two archaeological excavations of Duong Long towers in 2006-07 unearthed many valuable vestiges, contributing to the research of Binh Dinh style under Champa art.
"Collected items like round statues, relievos of Laskmi, Uma, Shiva, and Makara prove sculptors' perfect skills and religious philosophy," said Dr. Bui Chi Hoang.
Compared with sculptural pieces like Makara status in Mam tower, those in Duong Long towers had a similar overall layout but different design and details. The statues of Naga snakes, for example, had round figures covered with scales; meanwhile, Angkor temple's Naga snakes had sharp and flat heads and smooth figures, Hoang added. Naga snakes in Duong Long towers are, thus, similar to the figure of the dragon in Dai Viet (Great Viet) culture, which is due to historical events in that period.
"Findings of two excavations provide the newest evidences for researchers. They prove Duong Long towers have factors of not only Khmer but Champa culture. It is necessary to have further research to clear the indigenous features of Duong Long and other towers in Binh Dinh. This is also an important condition for the UNESCO's acknowledgement for Binh Dinh's Champa towers as a world cultural heritage in the future," said Dr. Le Dinh Phung.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/culture-sport/2007/11/50478/)
Binh Dinh Museum and the Southern Social Sciences Institute’s Archaeology Research Centre held the second archaeological excavation of Duong Long towers in Tay Binh Commune of Tay Son District. The excavation unearthed many vestiges.
Foundations clearly identified
Following the findings in 2006, the second excavation was mainly carried out in the south and east areas of the towers. At the east area of the south tower, archaeologists found a three-layer earth foundation. The first layer is a mix of broken bricks and brick powder, the second is made of macadam, and the third is a laterid gravel one which is thought to be the original surface.
In the east of the middle tower, a 10 m-length brick wall was discovered, running parallel to the wall found in 2006. Two shorter brick lines with similar structure were unearthed on the opposite side. At the end of two lines are vestiges of two brick pillars leaning to the gate.
Along two walls there are many pieces of broken tiles and terra-cotta. Two walls are, therefore, said to be vestiges of a house in front of the towers or a corridor used for placing statues.
The excavation showed Duong Long towers are a cluster of three towers with other architectural works involved, creating a unique complex. Results play an important role for the upcoming restoration.
Unique features recognized
Architectural style of Mam or Binh Dinh tower ages within the 11th – 14th centuries, according to Champa architectural style formed by Ph.Stern.
French scholars only based on relics collected at Mam and Canh Tien towers to form the style. Two archaeological excavations of Duong Long towers in 2006-07 unearthed many valuable vestiges, contributing to the research of Binh Dinh style under Champa art.
"Collected items like round statues, relievos of Laskmi, Uma, Shiva, and Makara prove sculptors' perfect skills and religious philosophy," said Dr. Bui Chi Hoang.
Compared with sculptural pieces like Makara status in Mam tower, those in Duong Long towers had a similar overall layout but different design and details. The statues of Naga snakes, for example, had round figures covered with scales; meanwhile, Angkor temple's Naga snakes had sharp and flat heads and smooth figures, Hoang added. Naga snakes in Duong Long towers are, thus, similar to the figure of the dragon in Dai Viet (Great Viet) culture, which is due to historical events in that period.
"Findings of two excavations provide the newest evidences for researchers. They prove Duong Long towers have factors of not only Khmer but Champa culture. It is necessary to have further research to clear the indigenous features of Duong Long and other towers in Binh Dinh. This is also an important condition for the UNESCO's acknowledgement for Binh Dinh's Champa towers as a world cultural heritage in the future," said Dr. Le Dinh Phung.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/culture-sport/2007/11/50478/)
Statue of King Quang Trung inaugurated
17:38', 21/1/ 2008 (GMT+7)
Binh Dinh Province People's Committee solemnly held a ceremony, inaugurating the statue of King Quang Trung at Quang Trung Park on January 20.
Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Tran Chien Thang and provincial leaders were among those attending the ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister Thang highly appreciated the contributions of sponsors to the socialization of historical and cultural works, honoring the tradition of "when drinking water, remember the source".
Provincial Vice Chairman Thien expressed many thanks to sponsors, saying that the landscape around the statue would be embellished to hold important events in the coming time.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/culture-sport/2008/1/53936/)
Binh Dinh Province People's Committee solemnly held a ceremony, inaugurating the statue of King Quang Trung at Quang Trung Park on January 20.
Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Tran Chien Thang and provincial leaders were among those attending the ceremony.
Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Minister Thang highly appreciated the contributions of sponsors to the socialization of historical and cultural works, honoring the tradition of "when drinking water, remember the source".
Provincial Vice Chairman Thien expressed many thanks to sponsors, saying that the landscape around the statue would be embellished to hold important events in the coming time.
Hoai Thu (translated by Hong Quang) (Ref. http://www.baobinhdinh.com.vn/culture-sport/2008/1/53936/)
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