After Hanoi in the north and Ha Tinh province in the central region, Ho Chi Minh City in the south is the next stop-over for the exhibition “Vietnam’s Hoang Sa, Truong Sa – Historical Evidence”.

The event, which kicked off on August 22, displays nearly 150 maps and documents affirming Vietnam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos.

The exhibits include versions of documents in traditional Chinese, Vietnamese and French languages issued by Vietnamese feudal states from the 17th century to the early 20th century, 95 maps published by Vietnam, China and Western countries from the 16th century, and four atlases published by China in 1908, 1917, 1919 and 1933.

Several photos and documents featuring the socio-economic and cultural development of Hoang Sa and Truong Sa in recent years are also introduced.

Through the exhibition, Vietnam wants to show both locals and international friends that many years ago, Vietnamese states have exercised and defended their national sovereignty over the two archipelagos.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Information and Communications Do Quy Doan said that the exhibition aims to affirm Vietnam’s just stance, raise the solidarity and responsibility of Vietnamese both at home and abroad for the protection of the country’s sea and island sovereignty.

The event once more affirms Vietnam’s determination to defend its sacred land, airspace and waters, helping international friends, including the Chinese, understand Vietnam’s wish to maintain peace and stability in the region.

It will stay open to visitors until August 29.-VNA