HA NOI — Vietnamese literature reflects the development of the nation over the last 1,000 years, with writers such as Nguyen Trai, Nguyen Du, Ho Xuan Huong and Ho Chi Minh contributing much to recording the country's advances, said Politburo member Truong Tan Sang. Sang was speaking yesterday at the opening of the 8th Congress of the Viet Nam Writers Association entitled "Solidarity, Democracy, Construction and Creativity" that was chaired by poet Huu Thinh.
"The country's literature for the centuries reflects Vietnamese patriotism and humanism," Sang said, adding that over the past 80 years, many Vietnamese writers had sacrificed themselves to the country's battle for freedom.
"They have a strong attachment to the nation's Doi Moi (renewal) process, creating many valuable works," Sang said.
The association has numerous members. It has always encouraged and supported writers' creativity, Sang said.
"Many of their humanitarian works have come into being, reflecting the nation's drive for renewal. The Party and State recognise and praise that great contribution," he said.
The country's objective is to build a "strong and prosperous Viet Nam with an equitable, democratic and civilised society," he added.
"The State has always respected writers' creativity, and has created favourable conditions for them to write valuable and interesting works," he said.
Huu Thinh, said: "For the growth of the country and the nation's dignity, Vietnamese literature has striven for national patriotism, democracy and humanity with great success."
The association has published more than 1,875 literary works, including articles on the development of the country.
From 2010-15 our writers goals should be to promote national strength and culture, Thinh said.
"Our priority is to improve literature's quality and to expand cultural co-operation with other countries," he said.
At the end of the Congress, a new executive committee was elected with poet Huu Thinh as the association's chairman for the 2010-15 period. — VNS