Representatives from United Nations member states joined Vietnam in celebrating the 25th anniversary of Hanoi being designated a UNESCO City of Peace. The event, themed “Cultivating and Nurturing a Culture of Peace for Present and Future Generations,” was a testament to Vietnam’s rich history and commitment to peace.
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Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Permanent Representative of Vietnam to the United Nations, delivers a speech at the High-Level Forum on the Culture of Peace in New York on August 2, 2024. Photo: VNA |
Ambassador Dang Hoang Giang, Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to the United Nations, emphasized Vietnam’s historical commitment to peace. He highlighted the nation’s foreign policy, known as “bamboo diplomacy,” which emphasizes independence, self-reliance, adaptability, and diverse relationships.
Giang called on nations to embrace the principles of peace, strive for sustainable development, and foster a culture of peace for a brighter future for current and future generations.
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Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam, has thrived in the 25 years since being named a “City for Peace” by UNESCO. It is the nation’s administrative, political, economic, and cultural center, attracting significant foreign investment and tourism. In 2023, Hanoi lured over $2.94 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) and saw a 42.5% increase in foreign tourist arrivals.
The city also prioritizes social welfare and improving the lives of its residents. By the end of 2023, the poverty rate had been reduced to 0.03%, and health insurance coverage reached 94.33% of the population. Hanoi effectively manages its rapid economic growth while maintaining a strong focus on its people’s well-being.
The iconic Thang Long Imperial Citadel, a historical relic site in Hanoi. Photo: Yeu Ha Noi Group |
Hanoi continues to excel in cultural, educational, scientific, and technological sectors, while also maintaining urban management and environmental sanitation. The city leverages information technology and creates an environment conducive to big data and smart city initiatives.
As the capital, Hanoi also plays a pivotal role in national defense and security. It ensures the safety of central government agencies and facilitates major political and cultural events, including visits from high-profile international guests.
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A bird’s-eye view of modern Hanoi. Photo: Hoang Thi Hoan |
In 2023, Hanoi hosted several foreign leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, US President Joe Biden, and South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol. These visits led to significant developments, such as the upgrade of Vietnam-US relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Hanoi’s successful hosting of these events enhanced the country’s reputation and showcased its ability to meet the demands of large-scale activities.