The event, jointly organised by the Hanoi Department of Culture and Sports and the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organizations, marks the 80th anniversary of National Day (September 2). It also celebrates 26 years since Hanoi was awarded City for Peace title by UNESCO in 1999.

The launch ceremony was attended by Artist Nguyen Xuan Thuy, chairman of the Hanoi Fine Arts Association, along with representatives from the embassies of Russia, Cambodia, the Philippines, Laos, and Palestine, and students from various Hanoi secondary schools

In his remarks, Nguyen Nam Hai, vice president of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organisations, noted that the contest provides a creative platform for children from Vietnam and abroad to showcase their artistic talent and express their vision of a peaceful, cultured, and modern city.

The initiative not only fosters mutual understanding and international friendship but also helps educate young participants about the values of peace, patriotism, and cultural harmony, he said.

The contest is open to children aged 6 to 15. Entries should reflect themes such as love for Hanoi and the homeland, peace, nature, and the friendliness of Vietnamese people.

Submissions will be accepted from August 15 to September 10 at the Hanoi Cultural Centre and the Hanoi Library. International participants may submit their works to the headquarters of the Hanoi Union of Friendship Organisations.

An awards ceremony is scheduled to take place on September 20.

Hanoi painting exhibition marks National Day

Some 80 paintings are on display at the Vietnam National Museum of Fine Arts in Hanoi in celebration of the 78th National Day anniversary.