Photo exhibition marks 320-year growth of Sai Gon-Ho Chi Minh City

Featuring 200 photos, the event introduces the journey during which the city has evolved from reclaimed land into the southern economic-cultural hub of Vietnam. The land, named Sai Gon during the French colonial era, was officially renamed Ho Chi Minh City after revolutionary leader Ho Chi Minh (1890-1969) in 1976.

The exhibition lasts until January 8 next year.

On the occasion of the 320th anniversary, another photo exhibition, which compares architectural features, street corners, roads and bridges of the ancient Sai Gon and of today Ho Chi Minh City, is taking place along Dong Khoi street.

At the 12th session of the HCM City People’s Council on December 4, Secretary of the municipal Party Committee Nguyen Thien Nhan said the southern hub has maintained its role as a driving force of the country with economic growth of 8.3 percent, state budget collection hitting over 369.62 trillion VND (15.93 billion USD) and revenues from the economic sector rising 15.02 percent year on year. 

Meanwhile, total social investment has made up 35 percent of the gross regional domestic product (GRDP) and the flow of foreign investment has hit 7.07 billion USD, he said.

Early next year, the city will start several projects to turn itself into a smart city by 2025.