UNESCO Community Introduced to Vietnamese Cultural Heritages

Ambassador Le Thi Hong Van, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to UNESCO, addresses the event. (Photo: VNA)

Vietnam’s cultural heritage and dynamic image of development, renovation, and dynamism imbued with national identity were on full display in Paris on May 3rd, as the country introduced itself to an international audience. The event showcased Vietnam’s unique culture, its ongoing progress, and its strong sense of national pride. It was a powerful reminder of the country’s rich history and its bright future.

Addressing the event, Ambassador Le Thi Hong Van, head of the Vietnamese delegation to UNESCO, highlighted the successful preservation of traditional Vietnamese cultural heritages over the years, which have been recognized and increasingly promoted by UNESCO through a number of tangible and intangible cultural heritages certificates.

Claudine de Kerdaniel, a member of the permanent delegation of Saint Vincent & the Grenadines to UNESCO, expressed her great admiration for the unique performances of Vietnamese artists, especially the water puppetry shows. She was truly amazed by their artistry and skill.

She highly praised the talent of the local artists, the variety of stunning traditional costumes, the impressive stage setting, and their meticulous preparations for the shows, as noted by VOV.

At the event, delegates were treated to a unique culinary experience with a variety of delicious Vietnamese dishes. They savored the unique flavors of the country’s diverse cuisine, delighting in the incredible tastes and aromas.

Visitors view a photos of Vietnam’s scenic spots recognized by UNESCO as tangible and intangible cultural heritage. (Photo: Nguyen Thu Ha/VNA)

Ambassador Simona-Mirela Miculescu, the permanent representative of Romania to UNESCO, nostalgically recalled her memories of 20 years ago when she accompanied the Romanian President on a visit to Vietnam. She was deeply impressed by the hospitality of the Vietnamese people.

Within the event’s framework, an exhibition was held to introduce the UNESCO-recognized cultural heritages of Vietnam. Participants had the opportunity to view the unique artifacts and artworks on display, as well as sample some of the country’s traditional dishes. It was an enriching experience for all those in attendance, as they gained insight into the nation’s rich and diverse cultural heritage.

Currently, Vietnam is a member of the UNESCO Inter-Governmental Committee for Safeguarding Intangible Cultural Heritage and the vice chair of the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee of the 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions.
The Southeast Asian nation is actively working to safeguard and promote its diverse cultural expressions, as well as those of other countries. It is committed to preserving cultural heritage and promoting cultural diversity around the world.

A Vietnamese art performance at the event. Photo: VNA

The country is striving to secure a seat on the UNESCO World Heritage Committee for the 2023-2027 period. According to the Vietnam News Agency (VNA), members of the committee will be elected in November 2023.

According to Ambassador Van, Vietnam has made active and effective contributions to multilateral forums at UNESCO, which has earned the country confidence from its member countries in its capacity for contribution and governance in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage. Moreover, UNESCO member states have also praised Vietnam for its policies and commitments to use heritage as an asset, potential as a resource, and culture as an endogenous strength for sustainable and inclusive socioeconomic growth, thereby contributing to the collective efforts of UNESCO and the world to safeguard heritage.