Hoang Sa, Truong Sa maps come to Hanoi

After attracting many visitors in central Ha Tinh province in early June, “Vietnam’s Hoang Sa, Truong Sa – Historical evidences” exhibition has come to Hanoi.

After attracting many visitors in central Ha Tinh province in early June, “Vietnam’s Hoang Sa, Truong Sa – Historical evidences” exhibition has come to Hanoi.

Illustrative photo

The week-long event, which opened on July 9 at the Vietnam Military History Museum , displays nearly 150 maps and documents affirming Vietnam ’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos.

The exhibits include copies 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 three atlases published by China in 1908, 1919 and 1933.

Some 18th - 19th century publications from Western countries and Vietnam’s documents on Hoang Sa archipelago from the late 19th to the mid-20th century that relate to Vietnam’s indisputable sovereignty over the two archipelagos, as well as photos featuring their socio-economic and cultural development in recent years, are also on display at the exhibition.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Information and Communication Do Quy Doan affirmed that the documents and maps are historical and legal evidence proving Vietnam’s sovereignty over Hoang Sa and Truong Sa archipelagos in the East Sea .

Through the exhibition, Vietnam wants to show both locals and international friends that from a very early period to now, Vietnamese states have exercised their sovereignty over the two archipelagos in line with international law.

It is also a chance to raise patriotism and awareness of defending sea and island sovereignty, particularly in younger generations, Doan added.