An artistic exchange themed “Connecting with the East Sea ” was held in Hanoi on October 7 with the aim to mobilise support for fishermen who are earning their living on traditional fishing grounds in the East Sea.
 
The event was coorganised by the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC), the Vietnam Red Cross Central Committee, the Vietnam Television and Radio the Voice of Vietnam. It was broadcast live on VTC1, VTC14 and VTC16 channels.

Speaking at the exchange, MIC Deputy Minister Le Nam Thang said fishermen are facing many difficulties at sea, not only from storms and bad weather, but also complicated developments in the East Sea situation.
Therefore, the programme has been held to raise funds to buy communication equipment for fishermen, helping them avoid unfavourable situation at sea, thus ensuring their safety.

Apart from the performance of artists, the audience had the chance to meet and talk with fishermen who shared heart-touching stories about their daily work and difficulties, including Bui Van Phai who did his best to protect the national flag when Chinese ships fired at his vessel, and Duong Thi Thu Anh, whose husband died at sea.

The event also featured documentaries that gave audiences an insight into daily life of fishermen and their families.

The artistic exchange was a part of the “Connecting the East Sea” campaign which was launched on September 15 and will last through October 14. The campaign has so far mobilised nearly of 4 billion VND.-VNA