Published:  00:00 Tuesday - August 31, 2010

The Vietnamese Culture Centre in Laos celebrated the 15th anniversary of its foundation on August 30 in Vientiane and received third class Labour Medals from Vietnam and Laos for its contributions to promoting cultural exchanges between the two nations.

It is a bridge for cultural exchange between the people of Vietnam and Laos, which contributes to cultural diplomacy, said Pham Hong Toan, the centre’s director, at the ceremony.

The centre has carried out various cultural activities in Vientiane and Laos provinces to mark major national events in Laos including fine art exhibitions, films and festivals as well as publishing books in Vietnamese that help boost bilateral cooperation in culture, sports and tourism.

In 2010, the centre launched a contest to compose songs about President Ho Chi Minh to mark his 120^th birthday, which drew the participation of famous Lao musicians.

The Lao Minister of Information and Culture, Mounkeo Oraboune, praised the centre’s achievements over the past 15 years and affirmed that it remains a sound link of traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries.