23 May

Opening and Awarding Ceremony of “Beauty of Mekong” art exhibition which marks the 10th anniversary of Mekong – Japan Friendship was held at National Theater on Pyay Road in Yangon.

During the event, Union Minister of Religious Affairs and Culture said that the pact initially started with Cambodia, Laos, Myanmar, Vietnam and Japan. The pact aims to promote standard of living and narrow the wealth gap in ASEAN countries. He explained this is the reason why they are collaborating in terms of social, economy and culture.

Then, the awarding of prizes to winners of “Beauty of Mekong” exhibition commenced, followed with a key note speech by an official from the Japanese Embassy.

Next, Artist U Saw Hlaing handed over a painting mementos to the Union Minister and the head of the Painting Department handed over one to the Japanese Embassy official.

Then, Artist U Hla Tin Tun delivered a speech on behalf of Myanmar artists and a Japanese artist from Tokyo University of Art, of Japanese artists. After the group photo session, they saw the exhibition. It was reported that 63 Myanmar paintings by well experienced Myanmar artists, teachers from high school and university of art, alumni and young artists, 3 Cambodian paintings, 5 Vietnamese paintings, 5 Laotian paintings, 5 Thai paintings and Japanese art works of painting, sculpture and lacquer are on display.

The event is on the first floor of nation theater. It is open to everybody free of charge from 9 am to 4 pm until May 28.—MNA

(Translated by Alphonsus)