Vietnam Commemorates 1,000th Founding Anniversary Of Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam (AHN) - The Vietnamese government on Sunday launched the countdown to celebrate the coming 1,000th founding anniversary of the capital Hanoi in 2010. The launching was capped by a grand ceremony.

Nguyen The Thao, chairman of the Hanoi People's Committee said the 1,000th founding anniversary will be held on October 10, 2010. The Vietnamese governments wants to promote the nation's pride during its 1,000 years of history, and to remind them to make greater contribution to the city's growth.

Thao said, "We call for all people in the capital and the country, overseas Vietnamese and international friends to continue to build a more beautiful, civilized and wealthier capital."

A digital clock to start the countdown was erected on the capital on Sunday as well as a contest calling all the people to design a logo for the 1,000th founding anniversary was also launched.

Several cultural activities were held in Hanoi on Sunday morning, including performances from folk artists, and a photo exhibition showcasing 180 large photos of the city in the past and present.

In 1010, King Ly Cong Uan moved Vietnam's capital from Hoa Lu, northern Ninh Binh province to Thang Long (now Hanoi). On October 10,1954, Vietnamese people liberated Hanoi from the French rule.