On the afternoon of 26/6 in Ho Chi Minh City, General Nguyen Trong Nghia, a Politburo member and Head of the General Department of Politics of the Vietnam People's Army, highlighted the vital role of artists during a meeting with Southern cultural figures.

Artists supported the army throughout the struggle for national independence. The General cited numerous inspiring Vietnamese melodies and timeless revolutionary songs. He recalled being motivated in his youth by powerful musical pieces, such as "Tieng sung da vang tren bau troi bien gioi" (The Sound of Gunfire Echoed Across the Border Sky) and "Chung toi la dong doi cua Le Dinh Chinh" (We Are Comrades of Le Dinh Chinh), composed by musician Pham Tuyen, which fueled his decision to join the military. "That era, when 'songs drowned out bombs,' underscored the spiritual power of literature and art," he stated.

General Nghia expressed his hope that in the contemporary era, artists would continue to enrich spirits and inspire patriotism and national pride among audiences. He emphasized this as a profound responsibility and a professional calling. He noted that in the age of information technology, creating impactful works is more challenging. He was touched by young talents, like Hong Ngoc from the Army Theater, whose march-like songs capture the essence of a soldier's spirit.

Films such as "Mua do," directed by Dang Thai Huyen, and "Dia dao," by Bui Thac Chuyen, exemplify successful historical dramas. These productions have captivated not only domestic audiences but also gained international recognition. "Mua do," which premiered in France late last year, generated such interest that the film's representatives requested an extended screening period.

General Nghia proposed themes for artists to explore, including soldiers safeguarding border sovereignty and their silent sacrifices for public peace. He also highlighted saxophonist Tran Manh Tuan's performance at a field hospital during the 2021 Covid-19 pandemic as a memorable public moment. "Artists must create works that remind future generations of the challenging periods our nation has endured," he emphasized.

General Nguyen Trong Nghia meets cai luong artist Le Thuy (right) and film actress Tra Giang. Photo: Mai Nhat

People's Artist Thanh Thuy, Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture and Sports, noted that the cultural industry's soft power now extends beyond national borders, aiming for global integration and competition. She added that the Department is collaborating with literary and artistic associations to empower artists and boost investment in the city's cultural assets.

Artists voiced their desire for comprehensive support. Musician Vo Cong Phuoc, former head of the Military Zone 7 Song and Dance Troupe, advocated for policies that support talent, recognize contributions, and protect copyrights, enabling artists to earn a living. He urged management agencies to encourage artists to engage with the creative economy, promote Vietnamese culture globally, and enrich public spiritual life.

Mai Nhat