Hong Kong (VNA) – Vietnam is showcasing its rich cultural heritage, tourism and cuisine at the 36th Hong Kong Book Fair, which opened at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (China) on July 15 and runs through July 21.
Organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) under the theme "Cultural heritage – Joyful journeys", the fair brings together more than 770 exhibitors from nearly 30 countries and territories. More than 600 cultural activities are being held inside and outside the fair's framework to encourage reading and cultural exploration.
The booth of the Vietnamese Consulate General in Hong Kong has attracted considerable attention with a vibrant display featuring traditional conical hats painted with Vietnamese landscapes, red lanterns and large images of popular destinations such as Ha Long Bay, Sa Pa, Hue and Da Nang.
Vu Thi Thuy, Deputy Consul General and Head of the Vietnam Trade Office in Hong Kong, told Vietnam News Agency correspondents that the fair, which attracts more than one million visitors annually, provides an important platform to promote Vietnam's culture, tourism, people and investment potential to local and international audiences.
Vietnam has brought a range of publications highlighting its history, cultural heritage, landscapes and cuisine. Featured titles include "The Illustrated History of Vietnam", "Enchanting Vietnam", as well as English- and Chinese-language publications by Vietnam Pictorial of the Vietnam News Agency.
Vietnamese culinary culture has also drawn strong interest through books such as "Vietnamese Food & Food Culture", "The Banh Mi Handbook" and "Into the Vietnamese Kitchen". Through stories, photographs and traditional recipes, the publications introduce iconic dishes such as pho and banh mi while offering insights into Vietnamese culture and lifestyles.
Inbar Lipman Garden, Deputy Consul of Israel in Hong Kong, said she was impressed by the Vietnamese booth's lively design and recalled fond memories of her visit to Hanoi several months ago.
This year's fair also features the ASEAN Literary Festival in its international seminar programme for the first time, following cooperation between the organisers and the Hong Kong-ASEAN Association. The programme brings together prominent regional writers and representatives from Southeast Asian countries, including Vietnam.
More than 200 books and cultural artefacts are also being displayed in cooperation with consulates general in Hong Kong, highlighting the region's cultural diversity.
Held concurrently with the Hong Kong Sports and Leisure Expo and Snack World, the book fair offers visitors a one-stop experience combining culture, sports and entertainment./.
