Vietnam Year of Family 2013 was launched at a ceremony in Hanoi on March 16.

Themed “Connecting Love”, the year will feature numerous activities to raise public awareness of the role of the family, gender equality and domestic violence.

Public campaigns include supporting activities for family building, setting up Happy Family clubs, and improving people’s knowledge of the current laws on family issues.

Addressing the ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Nhan affirmed that the goal of the Vietnamese Party and Government is to create prosperous and happy families.

He urged relevant sectors and agencies to complete the plans of building sustainable families as foundations for a happy and stable society this year.

A parade around Hoàn Kiếm Lake was held at the end of the ceremony, drawing the participation of many artists and local people.-VNA