Da Nang’s sky lit up at 8.35pm tonight as the magnificent fireworks displays of DIFC2013 began, marking the 38th anniversary of National Reunification, and also May Day. The first night’s show featured performances by teams Russia, Viet Nam and Italy.
The DIFC2013 involves teams from the USA, Russia, Japan, Italy and the host team Da Nang-Viet Nam and its theme this year is ‘Love for the Han River’. The opening ceremony of the event took place at 8.20pm in the city and it witnessed the participation of thousands of locals and visitors. Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc, Head of the Central Internal Affairs Committee Nguyen Ba Thanh, Da Nang People’s Council Chairman Tran Tho, Da Nang People’s Committee Chairman Van Huu Chien, and representatives of the central government, the city, and local agencies nationwide attended.Also present were the Russian Ambassador to Viet Nam, Mr Andrey G Kovtun, the Russian Consul General in Da Nang, Mr Dikushin Valentin Mikhailovich, the US Consul General in Ho Chi Minh City, Mr Le Thanh An and his wife, the Laos Consul General in Da Nang, Mr Vansa Launhiada, the World Bank Country Director for Vietnam, Ms Victoria Kwakwa, and many other international guests.In his opening speech, People’s Committee Chairman Chien said that following the success of the past five DIFCs, this year’s event is once again seeing the participation of international professional teams. He added that the event is expected to thrill and entertain the audience with spectacular and impressive performances. The city leader thanked the Prime Minister, the government, ministries and central agencies for their support. He praised the competing teams for their enthusiastic participation, and expressed his sincere gratitude to domestic and foreign businesses for their sponsorship.During the opening the ceremony, Chairman Chien presented mementos to the sponsors of this year’s event.Also at the event, local and visiting spectators enjoyed exciting musical performances, which showcased the specific characteristics of the culture, land and people of the participating countries.