The exhibition, themed “Encounters in Vietnam”, showcased images reflecting Vietnam’s development since 1988, as well as the special relationship between Sweden and Vietnam.
Sweden was the first country to recognise the National Liberation Front for South Vietnam and established diplomatic relations with Vietnam on January 11, 1969. Sweden was also the first Western nation to invest in a paper mill in Vietnam during a challenging period.
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Poet Nguyen Quang Thieu speaks at the ceremony. |
Sharing the inspiration behind their photographs of Vietnam, the two photographers revealed that their affection for the country began during a business trip in 1988 to assess Swedish investments. Since then, they have visited Vietnam multiple times to capture its transformation through the years.
In his opening speech, poet Nguyen Quang Thieu, Chairman of the Vietnam Writers' Association, expressed his gratitude to Lasse Edwartz and Ulf Johansson for reviving memories of Vietnam from earlier times.
“The photos of Vietnam through the eyes of Lasse Edwartzand Ulf Johansson portray a period when Vietnam faced poverty and scarcity, yet contained a profound mystery—the resilience of the Vietnamese people”, added poet Nguyen Quang Thieu.
Photographer Na Son praised photos by Edwartz and Johansson for depicting a gentle and simple love for Vietnam rather than emphasising the grandeur of its beauty.
The exhibition will last until October 22.
