Nguyen Duc Cuong, Chairman of the Quang Tri provincial People's Committee said the event provided a good chance for countries in the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) to strengthen cultural exchanges and economic and tourism cooperation, as well as promote their potential and strength in the integration and development process.

After the opening ceremony, there was an art performance which was divided into three parts: journey of heritages, friendship arms and trans-Asia bridge span.

The first part of the show introduced Quang Tri's citizens and its famous landscape, such as Cua Tung, Cua Viet, My Thuy and its war relics systems.

The second part included  artwork presented by artists from countries in the EWEC and China.

The final part showcased the beauty and tourism potential of countries in the EWEC and initial success of the "four countries-one destination" programme.

The festival aims to foster cooperation among countries in the EWEC and demonstrates successful development of nations in the greater Mekong sub-region (GMS). It also allows Quang Tri province to introduce its potential and strength to international friends and open dialogues to fully exploit advantages in the EWEC.

During the festival which runs until July 30, a wide range of activities are being held, such as a trade fair, a seminar on tourism and economic cooperation development in the EWEC, and a seminar on tourism development cooperation among Mukdahan (Thailand), Savanakhet (Laos) and Quang Tri (Vietnam).

At the seminar on July 29, the three provinces of Mukdahan, Savanakhet and Quang Tri signed a memorandum of understanding on tourism cooperation, under which they will facilitate immigration at international border gates, strictly manage travel agents, officially use the EWEC tourism logo, coordinate tourism advertising campaigns and develop tourism infrastructure.

The EWEC is under the cooperation framework of the GMS initiated by Asian Development Bank (ADB) and Japan to promote development potential of regions in GMS.

The corridor runs through four countries, starting in Mawlomyine in Myanmar to Thailand, and Laos and ending in Danang City, Vietnam.