A performance in the artistic programme “Eternal Epic”. VNA Photo

QUẢNG TRỊ – The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism and the People’s Com amittee of the central province of Quảng Trị on August 11 organisedn artistic programme at the Quảng Trị Ancient Citadel Special Historical Site and the Thạch Hãn River lantern wharf to honour fallen soldiers who sacrificed their lives for national liberation and freedom and deliver a message on the desire for peace.

The event Eternal Epic was among activities to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Geneva agreement on the cessation of hostilities in Việt Nam (1954-2024). It was held within the framework of the Festival for Peace 2024 – the first of its kind to be held in the province.

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the event, head of the Party Central Committee's Commission for External Relations Lê Hoài Trung emphasised that although the war ended a long time ago, many soldiers and families across the country are still suffering pain and loss caused by war that cannot be compensated for.

Trung requested that agencies at all levels, sectors, organisations and people to engage in activities to further support revolution contributors.

Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyễn Văn Hùng said that the Party, State and people of Việt Nam will never forget the great contributions of soldiers, martyrs, wounded and sick soldiers, and people to the cause of national protection.

The art programme helps portray an image of a generation of young people who set aside their schooling, responded to the call of the Fatherland to fight for the national liberation and independence, Hùng said.

The Quảng Trị ancient citadel in Quảng Trị province has gone down in national history as a symbol of bravery after local military units and people fought for 81 days against enemy troops, from June 28 to September 16, 1972. This contributed to the success of the Paris talks and the 1975 Spring Campaign which ultimately brought about the liberation of Việt Nam’s southern region and national re-unification. — VNA/VNS