Published:  00:00 Tuesday - September 28, 2010

The British Council is organising a wide range of events designed to celebrate the 1,000th birthday of Thang Long-Hanoi and promote cultural links between the United Kingdom and Vietnam throughout October.

The activities include an exhibition entitled Long Bien “In a City”, which explores the fabric of society in the Long Bien area through innovative photography, film and story telling; an auction of some of the best Vietnamese visual arts to raise funds for young artists; a fashion and design show and a “Global citizens” competition for 65,000 school children across Vietnam.

An international competition will be also held in the Millennium month to honour young Vietnamese talent in production, distribution and marketing, journalism, and artistic management.

British Council Country Director Robin Rickard expressed his hope that the events will contribute to delivering a message that while Hanoi is one of the most ancient capitals of Asia, it is also a modern city blessed with natural scenery and historical beauty nurtured by a splendid unique and enduring culture.

Operating in over 100 nations and territories, the British Council began its operation in the areas of education, English language and art in Vietnam in 1993.