Books at the European Literature Day 2017 in Hanoi (photo:hanoimoi.com.vn)

 Set to provide a bridge for cross-cultural exchange, “Europe Days 2017” is jointly held by the Delegation of the European Union, the Embassies of the EU Member States and the European Cultural Institutes, to mark Europe Day on May 9.

“Europe Days 2017” from May 6 to 28 comprises of programs of music, cinema, theatre, education, literature and environment. Head of the Delegation of the European Union Bruno Angelet told a press conference in Hanoi" "We'll organize, the 1st time ever writing contest on Europe. Vietnamese and intellectuals will write about the European integration achievements, European culture and culture diversity. We hope the contest will create a lot of interest among Vietnamese to write and explore Europe."

The diversity of European cultural traditions will manifest itself in the European Literature event in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. Vietnamese readers will have opportunities to enjoy new books from 8 countries, meet some of the authors, and attend creative writing workshops.

Emmanuel Labrande, President of the Association of Cultural Institutes and EU Embassies in Vietnam, said:"It's a little bit different because we have twice more events than last year. But the idea is the same. We promote European culture through publications of 8 countries, translated them into Vietnamese. I collaboration with the publishing houses here we organize different event such as book launching, workshop with children, presentation on drawings, exhibition, training, and so on."

Other highlights of the event include a European Film Festival - this year’s theme being tolerance and respect – a German Film festival for young people, and a Europe Day Concert in Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. There will be seminars on education, the environment, trade, and smart, sustainable cities.