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Vietnam welcomes Year of the Pig

Viet Nam News and Vietnam News Agency photographers captured images of interesting cultural practices, caring activities and joyous moments in the transition from the Year of the Dog to the Year of the Pig:

General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and State President Nguyen Phu Trong visits environment workers on Thanh Nien Road, Ha Noi, a few minutes into the New Year. VNA/VNS Photo Lam Khanh

Buying branches with buds and salt after midnight in Ha Noi. The traditional practice is believed to bring prosperity and luck to people during the year.VNS photo Truong Vi

People praying for luck and happiness at Quan Su Pagoda in Ha Noi. Visiting pagodas and temples is a common practice at the beginning of the New Year. - VNS Photo Truong Vi

Fireworks welcome the Lunar New Year at Hoan Kiem Lake in Ha Noi. VNA/VNS photo Thanh Dat

A corner of the flower street of Nguyen Hue, HCM City, as people welcome the New Year. VNA/VNS photo Thanh Vu

Foreigners also enjoy the festive atmosphere in HCM City. VNA/VNS photo Thanh Vu

A water music show entertain locals in Tien Giang Province. VNA/VNS photo Nam Thai

In Pleiku, Gia Lai Province, many cultural activities featuring local ethnic groups are organised on the occasion, including gong performances.VNA/VNS photo Hong Diep

Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc visits the Air Division No 372 on the New Year’s Eve. VNA/VNS Photo Tran Le Lam

The hair-washing ceremony in Chieng Bang Commune, Quynh Nhai District, Son La Province on the eve of the New Year. The tradition of the local Thai ethnic group has its root in a legend which tells the story of a lady general who ordered her troops to do the washing after her victory over the enemies on the last day of the year. VNA photo