Hue Festival 2014 opens

(Cinet)- Hue Festival 2014 themed “Cultural heritage in a integration and development” officially opens in Ngo Mon square, Thua Thien Hue on the evening of April 12.

Addressing at the opening ceremony, vice-PM Nguyen Xuan Phuc affirmed that he Vietnamese culture plays a pivotal role in bolstering socio-economic development and the impetus for projecting the country towards a more democratic and civilized society. He highlighted the invaluable contributions the cultural heritages of Hue city have made to socio economic development, as a feature attraction drawing millions from around the world to the region annually.

The Deputy PM stressed the need to preserve and uphold the traditional values of the nation, especially in the current process of international integration.

The opening, a spectacular mix of colorful music, song and dance performances, saw the presence of dignitaries and journalists from around the globe including Vice Chairman of the Lao National Assembly Saysomphone Phomvihane, ambassadors, diplomats, and representatives of ministries, agencies and localities in attendance. The performances of local and foreign troupes gave the event an international aura that the audience enjoyed.

The entire city seemed to be in a festive mood with several exhibitions and other events opening up during the day, including a photo-op on the iconic Truong Tien Bridge for all visitors.

Media personnel present at the event expressed dissatisfaction with the "vague and insufficient" information provided by the organizers about investment, programmers and performing artists.