HCM CITY—The HCM City Department of Information and Communication is holding a book week at HCM City Book Street to commemorate the 80th founding anniversary of the Việt Nam People's Army (VPA) (December 22, 1944 - 2024) and the 35th anniversary of the All People’s Defence Festival (December 22, 1989 - 2024).

Nguyễn Ngọc Hồi, deputy director of the department, said the event had the participation of 24 publishing houses and book distributors in the city, offering around 20 cultural activities such as book introduction, traditional music performances, talk shows and an exhibition praising the VPA.

The exhibition showcases 343 documents, images, and publications with the theme of “The Heroic Army - Strong National Defence,” reflecting the VPA through the two resistance wars to save the country from 1944-1975, and the VPA in building national defence and fulfilling international obligations.

The event also introduces new books on heroic military forces and individuals such as Đường Chúng Ta Đi (The Way We Go) published by the Trẻ (Youth) Publishing House and Những Trận Đánh Tiêu Biểu Của Lực Lượng Vũ Trang Thành Phố Hồ Chí Minh Giai Đoạn 1945 – 1989 (Battles of HCM City’s Armed Forces during 1945 – 1989) by the Sự Thật (Truth) National Political Publishing House.

Đường Chúng Ta Đi is compiled by two siblings Hoàng Đôn and Hoàng Đôn Nhật Tân, portraying over 20 heroes who had great contributions to national liberation and the development of HCM City from 1945 until now such as late Prime Minister Võ Văn Kiệt and late General Mai Chí Thọ.

Meanwhile, the other book compiled by Military Region 7 highlights battles of the city’s armed forces to protect the country from 1945 to 1975, particularly during the General Offensive and Uprising in the spring of 1968. The task of building and protecting the fatherland after national liberation is also featured.  

The organiser also offers talk shows with historic witnesses and music performances by veterans and art troupes in the city.

The book week remains open at the book street on Nguyễn Văn Bình Street in District 1 until December 22.—  VNS