On World Cities Day (October 31), UNESCO welcomed 58 new cities to its Creative Cities Network (UCCN), including Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC). This recognition marks a significant achievement for Vietnam’s cultural and diplomatic efforts.
Deputy Foreign Minister Ngo Le Van hailed the designation as a pivotal moment in realizing Vietnam’s vision for international integration and cultural renewal. It aligns with the nation’s strategic initiatives, such as the National Cultural Development Program (2025–2035), the Cultural Diplomacy Strategy (2030), and the Prime Minister’s Directive No. 30/CT-TTg (2024), aimed at fostering cultural industries and global engagement.
The Deputy Minister expressed optimism that HCMC’s inclusion in the UCCN will spotlight Vietnam’s creative prowess on the world stage, enhancing its cultural influence internationally.
Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Vietnam’s Permanent Representative to UNESCO, highlighted the rigorous evaluation process, underscoring the global community’s confidence in HCMC’s potential to drive the film industry forward. The city is poised to become a vital link between Vietnamese cinema and the international film community, contributing to regional and global cinematic growth.
As a UCCN member, HCMC will engage in global exchanges of ideas, expertise, and collaborations on film projects. This recognition is expected to unlock the city’s creative potential, expand cultural access, and bolster its cultural industries, targeting a 7.2% contribution to its GRDP by 2030.
Founded in 2004, the UCCN now encompasses 408 cities across over 100 countries, spanning eight creative sectors: crafts and folk art, media arts, design, film, gastronomy, literature, music, and architecture.
Vietnam’s UCCN membership now includes four cities: Hanoi (design), Da Lat (music), Hoi An (crafts and folk art), and HCMC (film).
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