VIENTIANE, March 13 (Xinhua) -- Laos organized the fifth Book Festival, themed "Reading for Development," to showcase the country's progress in education and the expansion of its reading culture.
The festival, taking place in the Lao capital Vientiane from March 12 to March 16, also celebrates the 50th anniversary of the founding of the Lao People's Democratic Republic, Lao National Radio reported on Thursday.
The event highlights the nation's progress over the past five decades in education, printing, and the promotion of reading culture. Educators, authors, bookstore owners, and students are among those attending the fair.
Key activities at the fair include an exhibition of significant historical Lao texts, panel discussions on the impact of reading on national development, and cultural performances celebrating the nation's heritage. Additionally, award-winning works from key periods of Laos' modernization will be showcased.
Beyond commemorating Laos' 50th anniversary, the festival seeks to promote a culture of reading and lifelong learning, in line with Laos' Human Resources Development Strategy for 2025. The event encourages the Lao people to embrace reading as a means of fostering both personal and national growth.
